Though Nana On-Sha's quirky Parappa and Lammy games have been popular enough in America, its dynamically generated musical platform game Vib Ribbon was deemed too odd for our shores. Now, they've gone one step further with its sequel Mojib Ribbon, and this time we'll get to see the game for ourselves.

Flowin' prose

   Mojib Ribbon combines the dynamically generated stages of Vib Ribbon with the Simon Says-style rapping mechanic of the Parappa games, then throws Internet connectivity into the mix. On the input end, players give Mojib Ribbon a text file that can be obtained via either websites or email. Once it has text to work with, the game automatically reads and converts the file into a rap. Players then input characters in time with the music, probably through a USB keyboard. Although the precise gameplay mechanics aren't known yet, they're what give the game its new name: "Vib" Ribbon revolved around the vibrating line that Vibri traveled, and "Mojib" Ribbon is derived from "moji," the Japanese word for "letter" or "character."

   The sequel's visual style has been vastly upgraded from the first game. Where Vib Ribbon went with simple vector graphics, Mojib Ribbon employs cel-shading to create an effect somewhat like sumi-e ink artwork. Sadly, charismatic mascot character Vibri won't be returning; Mojib Ribbon has a new and currently unnamed onscreen avatar.

   Though U.S. gamers were sadly deprived of Vib Ribbon, Matsuura mentioned at the 2002 Game Developers' Conference that he'll be working to get Mojib Ribbon published in America. No release date for either territory is currently known, but look for the first glimpses of Mojib Ribbon later this year.