Super Monkey Ball Banana Mania was already set to be a celebration of the series’ 20th anniversary, but it’s beginning to look like it’s going beyond that. Sega’s announced that Beat, Jet Set Radio’s most recognizable character, will be an unlockable playable character.
Not only is he getting a redesign to fit Monkey Ball’s aesthetic and spheres, but when you play as the GG, bananas on the stage will change to spray cans. It’s a nice touch, similar to how playing as Sonic in Banana Blitz HD turned them into rings. Speaking of Sonic, while Sega hasn’t said anything about their mascot being playable again this reveal makes it a lot more likely. If anything I’d expect more Sega cameos beyond Beat – bring on some Puyo Puyo, Yakuza, or NiGHTS to keep the party rolling!
For now though, it’s Beat’s time to shine as we wait for more news on Banana Mania (and if we’re lucky some kind of futute for Jet Set Radio) to hit the airwaves.
Written by Ricky Berg
When he isn’t writing for Nintendo Wire, Ricky’s anticipating the next Kirby, Fire Emblem, or if the stars ever align, Mother 3 to be released. Till then he’ll have the warm comfort of Super Smash Bros. to keep him going.
