LittleBigPlanet 2 Reader Questions: The Answers

We asked Media Molecule - and the team delivered!

Last week IGN AU threw open a call-out to the community for questions about the LittleBigPlanet series, Media Molecule and gaming in general. Naturally, our awesome IGN readers worldwide delivered. With thanks to the wonderful chaps and lasses at Media Molecule, we have answers direct from David Smith, Technical Director, the QA department and Siobhan Reddy, Studio Director.

James Kerbel asks: Can you use emitters to shoot water?

Media Molecule: In LBP2 we've introduced 'projectiles', these are based on the different lethal types. So not only can you shoot Water, but you can also shoot Fire, Electricity and Plasma too. The Eve's Asylum theme in the Story mode makes great use of the Water Projectile!

Jacob Ryan asks: is the thermometer in Create Mode bigger, and able to handle more complicated designs?

Media Molecule: We've changed the way the thermometer calculates what's in your level, this is mainly apparent with Emitters. Previously the thermometer would fill depending on what 'could' be emitted during the level based on the emitter's tweak settings. This also meant that if the user had multiple emitters in a level, some of which wouldn't even be activated (e.g. in a level where the user can choose which vehicle to use) they would still cost thermometer space.

Move integration is coming!

Now in LBP2, emitters are calculated differently, and so only emitters that are used cost thermometer space. This makes creating levels that are procedurally generated a lot less heavy on thermometer. Although we've made improvements, it's still possible to max out that thermometer in your level (you guys do like to push the boundaries! ;), but don't fret - with the new 'Level Links' that we've added in LBP2 you can split your levels up. So if your level reaches the top of the thermometer, then finish it off in another level and link the two together!

Jesse Sesler asks: What features specifically will come in the title update that has PlayStation Move support?

Media Molecule: Well, the exciting thing to do with Move is, we're working on a play-create-share pack. We're still in the R&D phase and working out what the features will be, but it will be announced in a little while and we're really excited. In the same was as in LBP2, you have the Controlinator and you can remap the controls, you'll be able to do the same thing with Move. It'll also allow the community to make their own Move games and that's very cool.

Eric Whitesell asks: Okay, I'm sure this is a common problem: I'm getting LBP2, but I've never had LBP1. Will the paintinator be available for use in creating stuff in LBP2? If not, can I download the MGS pack for LBP1 without having LBP1? And if not, will this be remedied in some way?

Media Molecule: If you have LBP2 you are able to purchase all of the DLC for LBP1. So in answer to Eric's question - yes, you will be able to purchase the MGS DLC from the store in LBP2. However...there is also a fabulous new tool called the Creatinator, which works the same way as the Paintinator can choose what to emit from the object!

Sean Steele asks: In create mode can I make score bubbles spendable? Example: player picks up a few score bubbles for a total of 500 points. Player proceeds to go to a shop and use points to buy something that costs 200 points, reducing his score to 300 points.

Media Molecule: Yes you are able to make score bubbles spendable. This is achieved by using the new score giver and score sensor gadgets. To set up the scenario of spending points you will need to make the score giver award minus points to the player. Yes that's right - you can give positive or minus scores using the score giver! The scores in the story mode work in a similar way where there are vending machines at the end of the level.

The community behind LBP is set to boom with some of the new features in LBP2.

What this means is the player has to achieve a score of XXX for the vending machine to give the collectable to the player.

Mark Walton asks: Will a custom level be able to hold an infinite number of stickers this time around, and will there be a more refined/accurate way of placing stickers on your Sackboy for better customization?

Media Molecule: The number of stickers used in custom level depends on if the player is using the same sticker across the level or using loads of different stickers. If the player uses the same sticker across the level then yes, they will be able to place more stickers than LBP 1 (although not an infinite amount!). As for placing stickers on Sackbot, in LBP2 there is now the ability to tilt the camera to get a better view of below and above your Sackboy whilst decorating him.

Matt Szalkowski asks: Can you Online Co-op create a level and publish it together, thus sharing the hearts and plays?

Media Molecule: No, the publishing works the same way as LBP 1, so which ever player has the level and publishes it, will receive all the hearts and plays.

Timothy Werner asks: Why does "Longest marathon playing LittleBigPlanet 2" qualify for the Guinness World Records - Gamer's Edition?

Media Molecule: Well, it's valid, isn't it? We actually got involved with The Guiness Book of Records when they asked us to do the cover for them – and who doesn't love the Guiness Book of Records! I'm happy that we're in it!