This is what a modern family-friendly platformer should be. Sackboy ditches the creation tools of LittleBigPlanet for pure, polished platforming—and it works beautifully.
The co-op is the real star. Up to four players can tackle levels together, and the game smartly adjusts difficulty. Parents report that it's perfect for playing with younger kids who need a hand (literally—you can grab and carry them through tough sections).
It's squeaky clean without being boring. The one 'damn' in a song is barely noticeable, and the cartoon violence is so mild that Common Sense Media's parent guide basically shrugs at it. No death animations, no blood, just bouncy fabric physics.
The price tag might sting for what's essentially a 10-12 hour game, but the quality is undeniable. If you've got a PlayStation and want something everyone can play together—from your 5-year-old to your spouse—this delivers.
Age Fit
Best for ages 5-12, though the co-op appeal extends to teens and adults who enjoy platformers. Six-year-olds can handle early levels solo; younger kids will want a co-op partner. It's not baby stuff—there's real challenge here—but it's accessible and never punishing.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
88
Charming platformer with cooperative multiplayer that encourages teamwork. Mild cartoon violence (punching, jumping on heads) with no blood, gore, or death shown. One instance of 'damn' in song lyrics (music can be turned off). Models collaboration and problem-solving in a cheerful, positive environment.
Imaginative
82
Creative 3D platforming with expressive controls and varied level design. Players explore colorful worlds with the iconic LittleBigPlanet character. While not as creation-focused as the original LittleBigPlanet series, it offers solid exploration and puzzle-solving. The game invites experimentation with its physics-based gameplay and co-op mechanics.
Safe
92
ESRB rated E for Everyone with Mild Cartoon Violence and Mild Lyrics. No in-game purchases, no loot boxes, no online chat. Users interact notation refers to online multiplayer but without communication features. One mild profanity in background music (optional). Violence is completely bloodless and cartoonish. Very transparent, kid-friendly design with no manipulative mechanics.
Enriching
75
Solid platforming that builds spatial reasoning, timing, and coordination skills. Co-op mode teaches collaboration and patience. Problem-solving through platforming challenges. However, it's primarily entertainment-focused rather than deeply educational—which is fine for a video game. Develops perseverance through level challenges.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Genuinely fun co-op that works for mixed-age families—parents can help younger kids through tougher sections
Zero monetization nonsense: no ads, no in-game purchases, no loot boxes, just a complete game
Bright, creative level design with a charming aesthetic that doesn't talk down to kids
Builds real gaming skills—timing, spatial awareness, cooperation—without feeling like homework
Perfect PS5 launch title that shows off the DualSense controller's haptic feedback
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What to Watch For
One 'damn' in a background song—easily avoided by turning off music if that bothers you
Later levels get legitimately challenging; younger kids (under 6) may need a co-op partner to drag them through
Full price ($60 at launch) for a game that's shorter than some AAA titles, though the quality is there
Conversation Starters
"Which levels were hardest for you? What strategies did you figure out?"
"When we played together, how did we help each other get through the tricky parts?"
"If you could design your own Sackboy level, what would it look like?"
