🕗 Total time played (approx.): 66h
🏆 Completion: 100%

REVIEW:

Okami, a shining star in the sky of the gaming world, gleams with a grace and elegance that is unparalleled. Released in 2006 for the PlayStation 2, this masterpiece has captured the hearts of players worldwide and rightfully secured its place as a timeless classic in the history of video games. With a captivating story, breathtaking visual presentation, and unique gameplay that pushes the boundaries of the medium, Okami is in my opinion undoubtedly one of the greatest games of all time and a triumph of the creative art form of video games.

The story of Okami unfolds in a world threatened by evil forces. As the sun goddess Amaterasu, embodied in the form of a majestic white wolf, players embark on an epic journey to free the land from darkness and save its inhabitants. The story is profound and rich in Japanese mythology and folklore, giving the game a fascinating cultural depth. From the very beginning, one is drawn into a world full of magic, secrets, and unforgettable characters that captivate until the end of the adventure.

What truly sets Okami apart from other games, however, is its visual presentation. Inspired by traditional Japanese ink wash paintings, Okami's graphics are a true feast for the eyes. Each screen is like a living painting, coming to life with vibrant colors, intricate details, and an unparalleled aesthetic. The world of Nippon is a kaleidoscope of beauty and imagination that mesmerizes players and immerses them in a magical reality. Even after all these years, Okami's graphics remain impressive and timeless, showing that art in video games can have a transformative power.

But Okami is not just a visual delight; it is also a masterpiece of gameplay. Players control Amaterasu through an semi-open world full of puzzles, battles, and adventures. With her divine brush, they can wield the power of nature by painting symbols to solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and bring the world around them to life. This unique mechanic gives the game a refreshing originality and challenges players to use their creative skills to overcome obstacles and save the land. The controls are intuitive and fluid, making it easy even for beginners to immerse themselves in the world and feel like true heroes.

Yet what truly makes Okami unforgettable are the small details and intricacies that elevate the game to a true work of art. The music, mainly composed by Masami Ueda, is a masterpiece in itself and contributes significantly to the atmosphere and mood of the game. From epic orchestral pieces to delicate piano melodies, the music perfectly captures the essence of the game and leaves an indelible impression in the minds of players. The characters are equally lovingly crafted, with a depth and personality that make them more than just pixels on a screen. Every NPC encountered has a story to tell and contributes to the vibrant world of Nippon.

Okami is a triumphant masterpiece that pushes the boundaries of what a video game can be. With its captivating story, breathtaking graphics, unique gameplay, and unforgettable music, it sets a new standard for artistic excellence in the video game medium. Even after all these years, Okami remains a timeless classic that captures the hearts and imaginations of players worldwide. Those who have experienced this game will understand why it is considered one of the greatest games of all time and why it is regarded as a true work of art. For me, Okami is not just a video game; it is one of the most important videogames of all time, when it comes to making video games comprehensible to "outsiders" as an art form. This game is an experience that will be cherished forever in my heart.

⭐ Rating: 6/5

EDIT: corrected a mistake on my part regarding the lead music composer, thanks @rebarnd for making me notice

Reviewed on Feb 20, 2024


2 Comments


1 month ago

im 99% positive Akira Yamaoka did not compose for this game but otherwise good review

1 month ago

I was actually pretty sure, but after your comment I double-checked and sure enough, you're absolutely right! The man largely responsible for this was in fact Masami Ueda and not Akira Yamaoka. My bad.