LittleBigPlanet on PSP: Some Possibilities

Sources from inside Sony and from the gaming press are suggesting that a portable version of LittleBigPlanet is in the works. Evidently, Studio Liverpool is behind the project, having previously and successfully built two WipEout games for the handheld. We believe that moving LittleBigPlanet to the PSP makes a lot of sense, considering the hype that has built up for the console game, as well as Sony's stated plans to capitalize on hit franchises across different platforms. The decision to bring Resistance: Retribution to the PSP is part of this ongoing strategy, so it is logical to assume that LBP is next in line to get the handheld treatment.

If Sony does decide to make our dreams come true and bring a version of LittleBigPlanet to the PSP, what would such a game look like? Many are speculating that it will simply be a smaller, less detailed version of the game that we have already seen on the PS3, complete with mini level-editing tools. While this seems like a rational guess, it is very unlikely. Porting a slimmed-down version of LBP to the handheld would be in keeping with Sony's old and abandoned strategy, not with their new plan for the portable system. We believe that LBP PSP will be a radically different experience from the console version, and one that plays to the PSP's strengths while enticing those who have already invested in the PS3 game to pull out their wallets one more time. Here are some possible directions that the PSP version of LBP might take:

A 2D "Paper" Planet
Before LittleBigPlanet, there was Craftworld, a two dimensional prototype that contained many of the same ideas as the final 3D game. A 2D version of LBP would work well on the PSP, by reducing some of the processor strain created by the need for complex 3D rendering. Level editing tools would be simpler, and easier to implement on the PSP. An added bonus would be that there would be no more need for the annoying plane system that has been causing players consternation in the console version.

Sony Exec: "Let's drop everything and invest $50 million in this game."

A Pure 3D Platformer Without Editing Tools
Many have suggested that the PSP version of the game might simply be a level editor so that PS3 owners could take their creative ideas on the go. We think that is highly unlikely. Nobody is going to want to use the limited control scheme and smaller screen of the PSP to craft their LBP masterpieces when the PS3 editor is so robust. Instead, we think the opposite is true: Sony might drop the level editor altogether in the PSP version, in favor of a tighter platform experience. This game would focus entirely on platforming, with fixed levels and a single-player storyline. Developers might even reduce the use of physics in the game to accommodate the PSP processor and keep the game simple. Ironically, the reduction of physics in a PSP platformer might actually help gameplay. One of the few complaints raised by reviewers so far has been the fact that the physics engine creates some loose jumping controls that keep the game from being pure platform perfection.

A Collection of Minigames
The PSP might not be able to render the complex 3D worlds created by users on the PS3, but it could connect with the LPB universe in other ways. One of the coolest features in the console title is the always-on internet connectivity that allows players to build social networks and check out other players' creations in realtime. By using the PSP's wifi connectivity, Sony could create a mini-game collection on the PSP that would allow players to join with their friends, and perhaps collect new objects and stickers for use in the main console editor. The minigames would be small, self contained challenges, perfect for multiplayer match-ups. While this could end up being really lame, there is a chance it could be fun as well.

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