

The levels are a delicate mix of classic 2D platforming combined with twisting 3D paths, and the ability to interact with obstacles not only immediately in front of you but also all around your view creates a thrilling atmosphere that continually keeps you on your toes. The action in Klonoa is fun and engaging, but the clever level design is what makes this game feel so unique. Using the Wii Remote lets you toss enemies with a flick of the wrist, though all of the motion controls are optional. You can use either the Wii Remote by itself or with the Nunchuk, the Classic Controller, or the GameCube original, and all of them work quite well. These few different moves are presented in a variety of unique ways throughout the game, forcing you to be clever to reach out-of-the-way platforms or dispose of a relentless boss. Once you latch on to your reluctant foes, you can either toss them at other enemies to quickly dispose of them, throw them at faraway switches to open up new paths, or hurl them toward the ground so you can double-jump to higher platforms. You can jump with pinpoint precision like in any respectable platformer, but the ability to grab on to nearby enemies is a novel mechanic that helps make this adventure feel unique. Though Klonoa doesn't have a wide assortment of moves, the action is still fun and engaging. The story ultimately feels out of place, never mixing with the otherwise gleeful experience.

It is long and meandering, destroying much of the impact of the heartfelt revelations. The voice acting gives weight to the plaintive cries of the distressed citizens, but the plot can be difficult to follow at times. A strong feeling of unease permeates every cutscene, creating a sharp contrast with the cheerful lands that you roam. Although darkness enveloping a colorful land is a common theme in games, the tale in Klonoa is more morose than normal. He awakens with a start one night after dreaming of a terrible threat sweeping over his peaceful village. He resembles a bipedal rabbit with oversized eyes, floppy ears that appear to have hands sprouting from the ends, and a sideways hat with a Pac-Man logo emblazoned on the side. Klonoa is one strange-looking protagonist.
