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LittleBigPlanet Karting races into living rooms soon

Sackboy returns for some mega mayhem on the racing track.

Christopher MacManus
Crave contributor Christopher MacManus regularly spends his time exploring the latest in science, gaming, and geek culture -- aiming to provide a fun and informative look at some of the most marvelous subjects from around the world.
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Christopher MacManus
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Vroom! Move over Mario Kart. Media Molecule

Sackboy and friends put the pedal to the metal in a new racing adventure set to debut in 2012.

Media Molecule announced yesterday LittleBigPlanet Karting for PS3, a kart racing game made in collaboration with ModNation Racers co-creator United Front Games. The title retains the familiar "Play, Create, Share" motto used in previous LittleBigPlanet releases but offers large areas for driving instead of just side-scrolling adventures.

Who can't wait to spend hours and hours with their significant other customizing their karts? (Click to enlarge.) Media Molecule

"Tons of familiar LBP gadgets will be present, along with a new toolbox specifically tailored to allow for building in LBP Karting's 3D world," said James Grieve, senior producer, United Front Games. "Along with fan-favorite racing and battle modes, players will be able to modify the rules of the game itself to create completely new modes and challenges."

Several modes in the game include online multiplayer (up to 8 people) in races, battles, and other events. Grieve confirmed that the upcoming kart racing game features 3DTV compatibility. Gaming Web site thesixthaxis indicates that LittleBigPlanet Karting may offer support for PlayStation Move. Also, expect new things like bounce pads on tracks and grappling hooks in cars.

We quickly noticed some gamers out there drawing comparisons between LittleBigPlanet Karting and ModNation racers. Both games feature the same producers, of course. However, the new LittleBigPlanet racer comes off as a more advanced experience in customization and overall gameplay. More potential with the brand name recognition, too.

Another often-spoken problem revolves around the load times for ModNation Racers, which irked many gamers out there. LittleBigPlanet's take on racing will offer "pleasantly surprising" load times, said Grieve.

No word about a PS Vita release for LittleBigPlanet Karting, but you can always play ModNation Racers: Road Trip instead.