The Limbo/Ico influences are all present, but Brothers stands up perfectly well as its own emotional rollercoaster.
The main attraction here is the ability to control both of our heroes at the same time. I can't speak for PC users but this mechanic is perfect for console thumbsticks: the instinctive gamer's left hand (playing the older brother) leads the right hand (the younger one) - resultingly the gameplay reflects their relationship and the need to cooperate as one.
As you guide your titular twosome through a hazardous fantasy realm to find an elixir for their dying father, you encounter creatures both friendly and not so much - giant birds, giant turtles, giant giants. Most surprising is the way the game takes drastic u-turns between fun, meditative adventure and moments of horror and utter bleakness.
Brothers is not afraid to play against your expectations, even if the results are pointlessly soul crushing.