LittleBigPlanet is one of the most highly anticipated titles on the PS3 this year, and I was fortunate enough to get a hands-on demonstration at PAX. The Sony rep teamed up with me and three other journalists and together we explored a few of the many wacky, fun, and challenging levels in this platformer.

For those who don’t know, LittleBigPlanet is a unique platform game in that you can actually modify the levels. You can even create your own levels. Create a “Sackboy” or “Sackgirl” character, customize it to your heart’s content, and choose a level. You can play with up to three other players, and while you’re essentially competing against them, there are times when you have to cooperate with each other for the greater good. For example, players have to work together to push a block that can’t be moved by just one person. Once the block is moved, all players can jump on it and move onto the next platform.

The first level we tried was called Skulldozer, a running-of-the-bulls type of level where we were chased by a large, angry skeletal bull and we had to avoid being stomped flat. We raced across the screen, jumping on platforms, but also collecting colorful balls for points. Several times the other journalists and I got caught by the bull or fell into a trap, and eventually only the Sony rep survived the course.

The next level we tried is called Skateboard Freeplay, a very short and simple level in which we all rode on a giant skateboard and launched it on a ramp. We had to make it to the end of the level in a certain period of time, using the fast skateboard as much as possible. Holding on to the skateboard’s nose using R1, we headed down the ramp and sped along when we encountered another ramp. We sailed in the air, but unfortunately we lost control and fell off. Fortunately we were near the end and made it in time.

I didn’t catch the name of the last level, but it was the longest and actually the game’s tutorial. We spent the whole time jumping over pits, grabbing on hanging sponges to swing to the other side, using see-saws to propel ourselves to a higher platform, and grabbing as many point-filled balls as possible. It was awesome.