[As originally posted onJapanator— come check out our redesign!]
Out of all the properties to create an MMORPG from, the beloved Japanese 30-year-old Sanrio character Hello Kitty would probably be at the bottom of the list — I just can’t wrap my head around that. Of course, that didn’t stop Sanrio from going all the way withHello Kitty Online.
When I saw that I had a Sanrio press release in my inbox earlier today, I just assumed it was something silly likeanother HK diamond ringor a$2,000 necklace, and so I passed over it. I’m sure glad I gave it another look, as I may have missed an opportunity to check out the most mindblowing MMO ever conceived.
Today kicks off a closed-beta launch ofHello Kitty Online. This adorable MMO features characters from theSanrio universe, including Badtz-Maru, My Melody, Keroppi, and many more, all running about a Sanrio fantasy world. Travel around Tokyo, Paris, Moscow, or even Flower Kingdom; build a house; and even craft tools and… weapons? Yes, Hello Kitty Online features MMO staples like monsters, combat, and experience points.
On top of that, there’s customizable avatars, guilds, skill systems, and even a player economy. When launched,HKOcan be downloaded and played online for free.
