ICO surprised me. It’s simply amazing how a minimalist approach in a narrative can convey such strong emotions. Beautiful, beautiful game, and beautiful looking even with it’s age (especially in this PS3 remaster).
What didn’t age as well, tough, were some aspects of it’s gameplay, like how Ico moves in some parts and Yorda’s A.I., which can be a little frustrating sometimes. But, even so, I’m in this very weird situation in which I think some of this clunkyness actually ended up being part of the experience, you know? How it was really supposed to feel.
The puzzles were not the most mind-blowing out there, but offered the right amount of challenge to keep the story going on smoothly and, most importantly, providing a fun time. And, boy, it was FUN to go through these in a game without a HUD, an inventory system, and let alone any menu beside the Pause, game over and game save screens. In this regard, it kind of reminded me of the experience I had whilst playing The Neverhood, so you’ll feel right at home if you enjoy these types of adventure games - but be open minded and wait for the surprises ICO can deliver through the simplicity of it’s unique way of storytelling.
I was in awe during my whole - and short-lived: 5h56m! - playthrough, and I swear I could keep on playing it from beginning to end in a single sitting if I didn’t check on the clock and saw the “4 a.m.” being displayed on it. Super recommended if you’re in for one of the most unique rides in this medium. A little work of art.
What didn’t age as well, tough, were some aspects of it’s gameplay, like how Ico moves in some parts and Yorda’s A.I., which can be a little frustrating sometimes. But, even so, I’m in this very weird situation in which I think some of this clunkyness actually ended up being part of the experience, you know? How it was really supposed to feel.
The puzzles were not the most mind-blowing out there, but offered the right amount of challenge to keep the story going on smoothly and, most importantly, providing a fun time. And, boy, it was FUN to go through these in a game without a HUD, an inventory system, and let alone any menu beside the Pause, game over and game save screens. In this regard, it kind of reminded me of the experience I had whilst playing The Neverhood, so you’ll feel right at home if you enjoy these types of adventure games - but be open minded and wait for the surprises ICO can deliver through the simplicity of it’s unique way of storytelling.
I was in awe during my whole - and short-lived: 5h56m! - playthrough, and I swear I could keep on playing it from beginning to end in a single sitting if I didn’t check on the clock and saw the “4 a.m.” being displayed on it. Super recommended if you’re in for one of the most unique rides in this medium. A little work of art.