The game has its issues, its not perfect by any means. But not only is it distinctive in its style and ambitious in what it tries to achieve; the game is almost impressive, comes together really well in the end,.
Positives
1. Atmosphere- the game is mostly ambient sounds, and has a rather dreamlike surreal feeling to it. Almost portraying a fuzzy cruel fever dream in a game world. It evokes a feeling of being lost, dread and really makes you feel the boundless nature of an unbreakable bond and the idea of being spiritually attached to someone. I'll be honest, despite being so minimalistic it works- and the atmosphere is one of a kind; probably the best i've experienced in games so far. and I think it only works because its a ps2 game (or rather due to its 6th gen aesthetic).
2. Characters and Story- There is no real plot to this game. In theory, its one long escort mission- with semi complicated puzzles. But the way its told and manages to express itself is wonderful. The player roots for the characters, as they traverse through an expansive yet alien world, which is unpredictably dangerous at every step and makes them look small and insignificant. I also really like how much subtle yet real the game is with exploring ICO's character. The childlike innocence; and the urge to disregard everything and save Yorda.
Negative
1. The gameplay can be tedious and has not aged well. Had it not been for save states (played this one on an emulator), this game would get really really frustrating and repetitive.
2. Second act is necessary but boring- The ending and the epilogue definitely amplify the overall experience. Especially after the somewhat boring 2nd act, which is very much a rehash.
Overal a solid 8/10
Positives
1. Atmosphere- the game is mostly ambient sounds, and has a rather dreamlike surreal feeling to it. Almost portraying a fuzzy cruel fever dream in a game world. It evokes a feeling of being lost, dread and really makes you feel the boundless nature of an unbreakable bond and the idea of being spiritually attached to someone. I'll be honest, despite being so minimalistic it works- and the atmosphere is one of a kind; probably the best i've experienced in games so far. and I think it only works because its a ps2 game (or rather due to its 6th gen aesthetic).
2. Characters and Story- There is no real plot to this game. In theory, its one long escort mission- with semi complicated puzzles. But the way its told and manages to express itself is wonderful. The player roots for the characters, as they traverse through an expansive yet alien world, which is unpredictably dangerous at every step and makes them look small and insignificant. I also really like how much subtle yet real the game is with exploring ICO's character. The childlike innocence; and the urge to disregard everything and save Yorda.
Negative
1. The gameplay can be tedious and has not aged well. Had it not been for save states (played this one on an emulator), this game would get really really frustrating and repetitive.
2. Second act is necessary but boring- The ending and the epilogue definitely amplify the overall experience. Especially after the somewhat boring 2nd act, which is very much a rehash.
Overal a solid 8/10