Ecco the Dolphin hits the virtual console with it's amazing gameplay that touched gamers hearts with something unique...
As far as story line goes, this is as Sci-Fi as it gets. A young dolphin named Ecco is swimming with his pod one day as happy as could be when suddenly a vortex comes and sucks up everything in his home, including his family. He must travel the ocean now searching for the answers about what happened and why, all while searching for his pod and avoiding the dangers of the ocean.
From here, you will travel to multiple locations throughout the ocean, while solving puzzles, exploring and discovering clues to what happened. Sometimes you will have to find a "key" glyph that will open the other glyph that is blocking your way. Other times you might find yourself rescuing three different dolphin babies for their scared mother. Sometimes you might just have to swim, swim and swim to find out just exactly what you are supposed to do. There are sharks, jellyfish, puffer fish and more dangers in the water that you must fight all while trying to manage your air that depletes over time. If you happen to get hurt, there are clams and fish that give you health, as well as glyphs or statues that occasionally give you invincibility and infinite air. The challenge really comes from managing all of these things at once while trying to solve a puzzle that leads to the next area. Sometimes you'll discover more clues on what went on and why your family is now no where to be found. The level design is great and the challenge is unique and engaging.
The soundtrack is amazing. Hands down amazing. Almost every level features a unique and amazing track that is out of this world. You have to hear them to truley appreciate just how great they really are.
Back in the day these graphics were top notch and amazingly detailed. It was the first time someone could experience the deep blue sea with great detail.
Overall, if you want a great challenge that delivers something more than just shooting a million enemies on screen or your other basic challenges that you have been bombarded with over the years, than check out Ecco, you wont be dissapointed.