Ico

If you are at all familiar with "Ico" then you're probably aware that it's a critical darling and I'm about to just verbally love this game. I am therefore going to write this as if you had no idea what "Ico" was about.

You, a young boy named Ico, are exiled from you village for having horns and are locked in a large mysterious castle. By chance you escape your cell and are attempting an escape when you stumble across a mysterious, pale, young maiden named Yorda.

What follows is a quest to escape... the both of you. Unfortunately Yorda isn't very agile. Actually, that's an understatement. Throughout your quest you will constantly be attending to her every need as shadowy castle demons attempt to take her back. Essentially, the game amounts to be a 6-8 hour escort mission.

Combat is simple leading you to focus more on the obstacles the massive castle puts you up against on your way out, and protecting the girl.

This is truly a unique video game and probably unlike anything you've ever played before. Despite some of the tedium involved in protecting the girl you'll find yourself caring for her. The greatest strength of this game is that it fosters emotions, something very few titles can accomplish.

The art style is minimalist, yet awe inspiring. The camera is very cinematic and is handled for you. It's controllable, though, for those times you need to look around to see what's what. The few things you'll find yourself questioning is the game's length and a few trials at some seemingly easy puzzles the camera, in its fixed position, will make more difficult.

Overall, if you have a PS2 and like unique gaming experiences this one shouldn't be missed.

Grade = B+