I rarely pre-order games. In my opinion, it is an unnecessary practice. Software publishers have become so adept at gauging demand that the practice of scavenging for a big release has become a thing of the past. For instance, in the great state of Kentucky, “Grand Theft Auto IV” and “Halo 3″ were still sitting on store shelves numerous days after launch.

Sure, you can net some free pre-order gifts, such as the Homer ball that came with “The Simpsons Game” or the miniature Clank figure that accompanied “Secret Agent Clank.” However, most of these items eventually end up on eBay with the state-shaped chicken nuggets and fast-food premiums.

Enter Media Molecule. The folks behind “LittleBigPlanet” are hoping to have the Sony faithful giggling like school girls with some sweet pre-order goodies.

“LittleBigPlanet” is one of the most anticipated titles of the year. The game has generated tons of buzz and has impressed both the press and the gaming audience. Media Molecule’s user-focused title won Game Critics’ best console game and best social/casual/puzzle game of E3.

The ability to customize a virtual SackBoy and create levels is enough to have most gamers chomping at the bit. However, Sony and Media Molecule aren’t satisfied with merely taking your money. They want to ensure that you have a copy of the game on day one.

Those inclined to reserve a copy of the game can get their mitts on some “LittleBigPlanet” swag, which ranges from awesome to utterly useless.

Chief among these goodies are two downloadable SackPerson costumes. Get your $5 ready fans of brutality. Sony and Media Molecule are offering a downloadable Kratos SackBoy and a downloadable Nariko SackGirl to those who pre-order “LittleBigPlanet.”

If you ask me, a pouch featuring SackBoy’s mug and a sticker book don’t provide much incentive to reserve the game. The “LittleBigPlanet Creator” guide will definitely be useful, but I imagine most people will simply reserve the game for the exclusive costumes. Plus, who wants to read a book when you can dive right into the game?

According to Playstation.Blog, the gift you receive will be dependent upon where you pre-order the game. Therefore, you won’t be able to get all of the goodies in one place. Unfortunately, this probably means that gamers will have to choose either the Kratos SackBoy or the Nariko SackGirl. That is unless you want to pre-order the game from two different stores (with the intent of canceling one of your orders).  Personally, I prefer the Kratos costume.  However, I am sure there are plenty of Nariko fans out there as well.

I still haven’t decided if I am going to purchase the game. The second half of this year looks to put a serious beatdown on my bank account. There are simply too many great games coming out.  Though this is not a bad thing, it will certainly prevent me from purchasing some titles.

Regardless of my indecision, I am sure that many of you plan on picking up “LittleBigPlanet” the day it releases. What do you say SGC? Are you going to buy the game? Will you pre-order it? Are you going to pre-order the game at a specific store to get a specific gift? Jump on the forums or leave a comment below.

Source: Playstation.Blog via Kotaku

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