LittleBigPlanet is a blast, and now that the game has been out for a while there are many great user-created levels to play. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be tough to find the great ones due to the sheer number of levels available. The game's search function has definitely left something to be desired, and thankfully a new update has made this process much quicker and easier.

The newest update allows you to search the database of levels in several different ways; including separating them by options like highest rated, newest, most hearted, and busiest. This is a much quicker and easier way of finding the best levels instead of wading through the dreck, but you can still find new levels by searching text keywords or by selecting specific tags. The slight tweaks make a big difference, as you feel much more in control of the maps you can find and play.

Additionally, the update has added the "LittleBigStore," which allows you to purchase new costumes or item packs directly from the game, eliminating the need to go to the PlayStation Store. Being able to browse all the content release specifically for the game is great, and adds yet another level of convenience to the experience.

And speaking of the LittleBigStore, Sony has announced the next item pack for the game, which will be Metal Gear Solid 4 themed. Set to be released on Christmas Eve eve, there will be both a costume pack featuring characters like Snake, Screaming Mantis, and Raiden, as well as an item pack with new items for level creation. This includes 72 stickers, 12 materials, 10 decorations, 18 objects, and a whole bunch of new music tracks and sound effects. Even more exciting? The pack will come with a paintball gun, and a LittleBigPlanet version of Metal Gear Rex! Exciting stuff.

While LBP may not have been the blockbuster success Sony was initially hoping for, it's updates like this that should ensure the game sells steadily for the long haul. By both improving the game experience and continuously adding content, Media Molecule is ensuring that LBP is an evolving, ever-improving experience for gamers.