It seems Sony really, really liked LittleBigPlanet. Today they announced the acquisition of developer Media Molecule.

The UK-based studio was founded by former members of Lionhead Studios, a subsidiary of Microsoft. LBP was their first game and a PS3 exclusive. Looks like Sony wants to ensure it stays exclusive.

"Since they burst onto the gaming scene, Media Molecule have proved to be a truly exciting and innovative studio, who have proved their world-class credentials with the creation of the incredible LittleBigPlanet," said SCE Worldwide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida. “SCE WWS is all about creating ambitious, innovative and ground breaking games, traits that Media Molecule clearly have. To bring them into our family proves our dedication to creating fantastic new experiences that we believe will cement our position as industry leaders.”

MM has yet to announce their next game. However, they and Sony are looking to make LBP into a franchise. A game like LBP that emphasizes user-generated content will have a longer-than-average lifespan but you gotta figure they'll make a sequel eventually.