A long-awaited new Katamari game is set to launch on Apple Arcade this April.

The beloved character known as the kleptomaniac prince is making a return with a new addition to the Katamari Damacy series. Titled Katamari Damacy Rolling Live, this game is being brought to life by Bandai Namco, the company that has been the steward of the franchise. As the title suggests, players can expect the classic rolling gameplay that has made the series so popular, now available for iOS devices, Mac computers, and Apple TV.

Like previous installments, players will take on the role of the prince, rolling up various objects until they grow large enough to transform into stars. However, there is a noteworthy twist in the storyline this time around. Unlike earlier games, where the objective was to rebuild the galaxy with the stars you create, this installment centers around assisting the king in advancing his career as a livestreamer. This reimagined premise provides a fresh context for the gameplay.

In this new setting, your successful rolls can help boost the king’s “subscriber count,” leading to positive feedback from in-game fans. The gameplay encourages you to reach specific viewership milestones, which in turn unlocks new stages. While it may seem like an unusual premise, players often focus more on the satisfaction of seeing their creations grow rather than the plot itself.

Apple promises a captivating and genre-blending soundtrack for the game, which has a tough act to follow, as the original Katamari’s soundtrack is hailed as one of the best in gaming history. It’s been roughly eight years since fans saw a new Katamari game, and around a decade since a well-received release. Bandai Namco has previously delivered remastered versions but fans are eager for this new adventure.

Furthermore, there are other exciting news items for Apple Arcade users. The platform recently introduced an update to Skate City with new content featuring 30 new levels and 90 objectives, set to launch on March 27. There’s also a new Space Invaders game expected to arrive on April 3, enhancing the ongoing appeal of Apple’s gaming subscription service.

Overall, the upcoming Katamari game promises to bring back the fun and charm that made the original titles household names while updating the context to engage a modern audience. The combination of nostalgic gameplay and a fresh narrative aims to capture the hearts of both long-time fans and newcomers alike.

As gaming continues to evolve, the Katamari series retains its unique essence, keeping players captivated as they roll through imaginative worlds and create something bigger than themselves. With the embrace of contemporary themes like livestreaming, it reflects the changing landscape of entertainment while staying true to its quirky origins. The new release exemplifies how classic gaming franchises can innovate while retaining their foundational gameplay that fans have come to love.