This game is one of the few that exist that truly immerses you and is an amazing experience.
The main gameplay is broken up into two parts: First, you go from the Temple to find the Colossi using only your sword and your horse, Agro, for help. The game uses sunlight reflected off your sword to tell you where the Colossus is, so knowing where they are is never a problem. It’s getting to them that’s tough. The world of SotC is huge and Agro can only go so far. Sometimes you’ll have to dismount to climb a cliff face and sometimes you’ll need Agro to get pass certain obstacles. But nevertheless, when you do find the Colossus, the fight that ensues is where SotC shines. Each of the different Colossi look different and require different methods to defeat them. Some fly, some swim, and some just walk. But no matter what form of Colossi you face, you’ll always be in store for a fantastic battle. Sony CEA did a really good job of putting together these amazing battles. And no matter how big the Colossi is compared to how small you are, there is always a way to defeat it. And the feeling of satisfaction you get every time you defeat one of these great beings is one of the best points of the game. One of the other great things that make up the gameplay is its story telling techniques. After every Colossi battle, you’ll be transported back to the Temple and you might see a movie with a little tidbit of information. But if you persevere till the end, it finishes off with an astounding bang that I guarantee will leave you speechless.
The graphics of SotC are some of (if not) the best on the PS2. You’ll see leaves moving in the wind, little wildlife (such as lizards) moving among the mountains, spots of ground that seem warmed by the sun, and breathtaking waterfalls. And, of course, the Colossi look great too. You’ll see their fur swaying in the wind and the particles of stone falling off as they crumble to the ground. Overall, SotC is a great looking game.
The sound in SotC is excellent too. You can hear Agro’s hoof beats as you travel by horseback, you’ll hear your sword clang off stone, and you’ll hear the sound of running water get louder as you approach a waterfall. All these little touches really give the feeling of a living, breathing world.
The value of this game is very good, although it’s a little short. But you unlock various modes after you beat the game and you can find things to do in the world (hunt for lizards and fruit). And it’s also only $20 as a Greatest Hits title, and this game is worth much more than that.
Overall, Shadow of the Colossus is an amazing experience that should be played by every gamer, and even those who don’t own a PS2 should find a way to play it. It’s overflowing with an immersive atmosphere, elegant storytelling, and amazing gameplay. If you decide not to play, you’ll be missing out on one of the greatest games ever created, a true classic.