Yoko Taro Praises ICO as a Masterpiece That Revolutionized Video Games

Yoko Taro, the celebrated creator of NieR: Automata and Drakengard, recently discussed the profound impact of ICO on video games as an artistic medium. Released in 2001 for the PlayStation 2, ICO quickly gained cult status, renowned for its minimalist design and evocative, wordless storytelling.

Taro highlighted the game's revolutionary core mechanic: guiding the character Yorda by holding her hand. He pointed out that this simple act dramatically shifted gameplay conventions. "If ICO had tasked you with carrying a suitcase the size of a girl instead," Taro noted, "it would have been incredibly frustrating." This act of leading another character was groundbreaking, challenging established notions of player interaction.

At the time, successful game design often prioritized engagement even with simplistic, cube-like visuals. ICO, however, prioritized emotional resonance and thematic depth over purely mechanical innovation. Taro believes ICO proved that art and narrative could be integral components of the gaming experience, transcending their role as mere backdrops.

Calling ICO "epoch-making," Taro lauded its demonstration that video games could convey profound meaning through subtle interactions and atmospheric design.

Beyond ICO, Taro cited two other influential titles: Toby Fox's Undertale and Playdead's LIMBO. He argued that these games, too, expanded the expressive potential of interactive media, proving video games' capacity for delivering deep emotional and intellectual experiences.

For fans of Yoko Taro's work, his appreciation for these games offers valuable insight into his creative inspirations. It also underscores the continuing evolution of video games as a powerful and versatile art form.