Yoko Taro Hails ICO as Revolutionary Video Game Masterpiece

Yoko Taro, the visionary behind the critically acclaimed titles NieR: Automata and Drakengard, has openly discussed the profound impact of ICO on the realm of video games as an artistic medium. Launched in 2001 for the PlayStation 2, ICO swiftly gained a dedicated following due to its minimalist approach and narrative conveyed without dialogue.

Taro has pointed out the revolutionary nature of ICO's core gameplay mechanic, where players guide the character Yorda by simply holding her hand. He noted, "If ICO had tasked you with carrying a suitcase the size of a girl instead, it would have been an incredibly frustrating experience." This mechanic challenged and changed the conventional gameplay norms of the era, demonstrating that leading another character could be a powerful and innovative form of interaction.

During that period, successful game design often hinged on maintaining player engagement even when all elements were simplified to basic cubes. ICO, however, broke from this mold by focusing on emotional resonance and thematic depth rather than just mechanical innovation. Taro believes that ICO illustrated how art and narrative could transcend their traditional roles as mere settings for gameplay, instead becoming essential elements of the gaming experience.

Labeling ICO as "epoch-making," Taro credits it with altering the course of game development. He lauds the game for showing that video games can convey deep significance through subtle interactions and atmospheric design.

Beyond ICO, Taro also mentioned two other games that significantly influenced him and the industry: Undertale by Toby Fox and LIMBO by Playdead. He argues that these titles expanded the horizons of what interactive media can express, proving that video games can evoke profound emotional and intellectual experiences.

For enthusiasts of Yoko Taro's creations, understanding his admiration for these games provides valuable insight into the inspirations behind his own work. It also highlights the continuous evolution of video games as a dynamic and influential art form.