[As originally posted on Japanator -- come check out our redesign!] 

Out of all the properties to create an MMORPG from, the beloved Japanese 30-year-old Sanrio character Hello Kitty would probably be at the bottom of the list -- I just can't wrap my head around that. Of course, that didn't stop Sanrio from going all the way with Hello Kitty Online.

When I saw that I had a Sanrio press release in my inbox earlier today, I just assumed it was something silly like another HK diamond ring or a $2,000 necklace, and so I passed over it. I'm sure glad I gave it another look, as I may have missed an opportunity to check out the most mindblowing MMO ever conceived.

Today kicks off a closed-beta launch of Hello Kitty Online. This adorable MMO features characters from the Sanrio universe, including Badtz-Maru, My Melody, Keroppi, and many more, all running about a Sanrio fantasy world. Travel around Tokyo, Paris, Moscow, or even Flower Kingdom; build a house; and even craft tools and... weapons? Yes, Hello Kitty Online features MMO staples like monsters, combat, and experience points.

On top of that, there's customizable avatars, guilds, skill systems, and even a player economy. When launched, HKO can be downloaded and played online for free. 

If a Hello Kitty MMO sounds like the best thing ever to you, you should head on over to the official Web page to sign up for the closed beta, but be prepared for a face-melting cute explosion. The music actually left sugar crust in my ears.