Klonoas

Klonoa is a platform video game series developed by Namco and later by Bandai Namco Entertainment. The first game in the series, Klonoa: Door to Phantomile, was released for the PlayStation in 1997. Subsequent titles have appeared on various platforms, including the WonderSwan, Game Boy Advance, PlayStation 2, and Wii. The series is characterized by its distinctive art style, reminiscent of anime, and its focus on a whimsical, dream-like atmosphere.

The protagonist of the series is Klonoa, a young, anthropomorphic cat-like creature who wears a distinct hat and wields a magical ring. Klonoa is often accompanied by his friend, Ghadon, a talking frog who provides exposition and guidance. The games typically involve Klonoa embarking on quests to save his world from darkness or corruption, often through the power of dreams. The gameplay generally involves 2.5D platforming, where players control Klonoa in a 3D rendered environment but move along a 2D plane. Klonoa's primary ability is to grab enemies with his ring and use them as projectiles to break objects or defeat other foes.

The narrative of Klonoa games often explores themes of friendship, courage, and the blurred lines between reality and dreams. While generally lighthearted, the series can also delve into more poignant and emotional storylines, particularly in its conclusions. Klonoa has garnered a dedicated fanbase for its charm, innovative gameplay mechanics, and heartfelt storytelling. A remastered collection, Klonoa: Phantasy Reverie Series, was released in 2022 for modern platforms, introducing the original two games to a new generation of players.