View source for Ico

{{Short description|2001 video game}}
{{About|the video game|other uses|ICO (disambiguation)}}
{{Featured article}}{{Use mdy dates|date=May 2023}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Ico
| image = Ico cover - EU+JP.jpg
| caption = Cover art of the European and Japanese versions, painted by director [[Fumito Ueda]], and inspired by [[Giorgio de Chirico]]'s ''[[The Nostalgia of the Infinite]]''
| developer = [[Sony Computer Entertainment Japan]]
| publisher = [[Sony Computer Entertainment]]
| platforms = {{ubl|[[PlayStation 2]]|[[PlayStation 3]]}}
| released = {{Video game release|NA|September 25, 2001|JP|December 6, 2001|EU|March 22, 2002}}
| genre = [[Action-adventure]]
| modes = {{ubl|[[Single-player]]|[[Multiplayer]]}}
| director = [[Fumito Ueda]]
| producer = [[Kenji Kaido]]
| designer = Fumito Ueda
| artist = Fumito Ueda
| composer = {{ubl|[[Michiru Oshima]]|Pentagon{{efn|Consisting of Koichi Yamazaki and Mitsukuni Murayama}}}}
}}

'''''Ico''''' ({{IPAc-en|ˈ|iː|k|oʊ}} {{respell|EE|koh}}) is a 2001 [[action-adventure game]] developed and published by [[Sony Computer Entertainment]] for the [[PlayStation 2]]. It was designed and directed by [[Fumito Ueda]], who wanted to create a minimalist game based on a "boy meets girl" concept. Originally planned for the [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]], ''Ico'' took approximately four years to develop. The team employed a "subtracting design" approach to reduce gameplay elements that interfered with the game's setting and story in order to create immersion.

The player controls Ico, a boy born with horns, which his village considers a bad omen. After warriors lock him in an abandoned castle, he frees Yorda, the daughter of the castle's Queen, who plans to use Yorda to extend her life. Ico must work with Yorda to escape the castle while protecting her from enemies, assisting her across obstacles, and solving puzzles.

''Ico'' introduced several design and technical elements that have influenced subsequent games, including a story told with minimal dialogue, [[bloom lighting]], and [[key frame]] animation. Although not a commercial success, it was acclaimed for its art, original gameplay and story elements. It received several awards, including "Game of the Year" nominations and three [[Game Developers Choice Awards]]. Considered a cult classic, it has been called one of the [[greatest video games ever made]], and is often brought up in discussions about [[video games as an art form]]. In 2006, it was re-released in Europe alongside ''[[Shadow of the Colossus]]'', the [[spiritual successor]] to ''Ico''. A high-definition remaster of the game was included in ''[[The Ico & Shadow of the Colossus Collection]]'' for the [[PlayStation 3]].

== Gameplay ==
[[File:Ico gameplay.jpg|thumb|left|Ico (right) calls out to Yorda (left) while she waits on the ruined castle. The game's graphics feature [[soft light]] techniques.<ref name="1up bittersweet">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3144548|title=Bittersweet Symphony|last=Mielke|first=James|date=October 15, 2005|website=[[1UP.com|1UP]]|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629175726/http://www.1up.com/features/retroactive-ico|archive-date=June 29, 2012|url-status=dead|access-date=October 7, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine|url=https://www.wired.com/geekdad/2011/09/two-classic-games-get-facelifts-and-a-playstation-3-release/|title=Two Classic Games Get Facelifts and a PlayStation 3 Release|first=Dave|last=Banks|date=September 8, 2011|access-date=August 27, 2012|magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]|archive-date=November 8, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121108052421/http://www.wired.com/geekdad/2011/09/two-classic-games-get-facelifts-and-a-playstation-3-release/|url-status=live}}</ref>]]

''Ico'' is primarily a [[3D computer graphics|three-dimensional]] [[platform game]]. The player controls Ico from a [[Third-person view|third-person perspective]] as he explores the castle and attempts to escape it with Yorda.<ref name="g4tv review">{{cite web |last=Keil |first=Matthew |date=September 30, 2002 |title='Ico' (PS2) Review |url=http://www.g4tv.com/techtvvault/features/33435/Ico_PS2_Review.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080509133021/http://www.g4tv.com/techtvvault/features/33435/Ico_PS2_Review.html |archive-date=May 9, 2008 |access-date=October 5, 2008 |publisher=[[G4TV]]}}</ref> The camera is [[Fixed camera|fixed]] but swivels to follow Ico or Yorda as they move; the player can also [[Panning (camera)|pan]] the view a small degree in other directions to observe more of the surroundings.<ref name="method development"/> The game includes many elements of platform games; for example, the player must have Ico jump, climb, push, and pull objects. The player must also perform other tasks such as solving puzzles in order to progress within the castle.<ref name="gamespot review"/>

Only Ico can carry out these actions; Yorda can only jump short distances and cannot climb over tall barriers. The player must use Ico to help Yorda cross obstacles, such as by lifting her to a higher ledge, or by arranging the environment to allow Yorda to cross a larger gap herself. The player can tell Yorda to follow Ico, or to wait at a particular spot. The player can have Ico take Yorda's hand and pull her along at a faster pace across the environment.<ref name="eurogamer review"/> The player cannot progress until they move Yorda to certain doors that only she can open.<ref name="g4tv review"/>

Escaping the castle is made difficult by shadow creatures sent by the Queen. These creatures attempt to drag Yorda into black vortexes if Ico leaves her for any length of time, or if she is in certain areas of the castle. Ico can dispel these shadows using a stick or sword, as well as free Yorda if she is drawn into a vortex.<ref name="g4tv review"/> While the shadow creatures cannot harm Ico, the game is over if Yorda becomes fully engulfed in a vortex; the player must then restart from a [[Save-state|save point]]. The player will also restart from a save point if Ico falls from a large height. Save points in the game are represented by stone benches that Ico and Yorda rest on as the player saves the game.<ref name="eurogamer review"/> In the European and Japanese releases, upon completion of the game, the player can restart the game in a local co-operative two-player mode; the second player plays as Yorda, under the same limitations as the computer-controlled version of the character. The new game mode also adds subtitles that translate Yorda's fictional language.<ref>{{Cite conference | url = http://waxebb.com/writings/ico.html | title = Interactivity in Ico: Initial Involvement, Immersion, Investment. | first = Drew | last = Davidson | year = 2003 | access-date = September 14, 2010 | conference = ACM International Conference Proceeding Series; Vol. 38 – Proceedings of the second international conference on Entertainment computing | publisher = [[Carnegie Mellon University]] | archive-date = March 8, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160308082713/http://waxebb.com/writings/ico.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="mecheri chap1">{{cite book | title = The Works of Fumito Ueda: A Different Perspective on Video Games | first = Damien | last = Mecheri | isbn = 2377842321 | date = 2019 | publisher = Third Creations | chapter = Chapter 1 - Creation }}</ref>

==Plot==
{{nihongo|Ico|イコ|}}, a horned boy, is taken by a group of warriors to an abandoned castle and locked inside a [[sarcophagus|stone coffin]] to be sacrificed.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Ico|developer=[[Sony Computer Entertainment]]|publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment|date=September 24, 2001|platform=[[PlayStation 2]]|quote='''Ico''': They{{nbsp}}... They tried to sacrifice me because I have horns. Kids with horns are brought here.}}</ref> A tremor topples the coffin and Ico escapes. As he searches the castle, he meets {{nihongo|Yorda|ヨルダ|Yoruda}}, a captive girl who speaks a different language. Yorda is magically linked to the castle and has the ability to open various gates using white energy that emanates from her body. However, she is physically incapable of defending herself. Ico helps Yorda escape and defends her from shadow-like creatures. The pair make their way through the castle and arrive at the bridge leading to land. As they cross, the Queen {{En dash}} ruler of the castle {{En dash}} appears and tells Yorda that she cannot leave the castle.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Ico|developer = [[Sony Computer Entertainment]]|publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment|date = September 24, 2001 | platform = [[PlayStation 2]] | quote = '''Queen''': That girl you're with is my one and only beloved daughter. Stop wasting your time with her. She lives in a different world than some boy with horns! ''[...]'' Yorda, why can't you understand? You cannot survive in the outside world.}}</ref> Later, as they try to escape, the bridge splits and they get separated; Yorda tries to save Ico but the Queen prevents it. He falls off the bridge and loses consciousness.

Ico awakens below the castle and makes his way back to the upper levels, finding a magic sword that dispels the shadow creatures. After discovering that Yorda has been [[Petrifaction in mythology and fiction|turned to stone]] by the Queen, he confronts her, who reveals that she plans to possess Yorda's body.<ref>{{cite video game|title=Ico|developer=[[Sony Computer Entertainment]]|publisher=Sony Computer Entertainment| date = September 24, 2001 | platform = [[PlayStation 2]] | quote = '''Queen''': My body has become too old and won't last much longer. But Yorda's going to grant me the power to be resurrected. To be my spiritual vessel is the fulfilment of her destiny.}}</ref> Ico slays the Queen with the sword, but his horns are broken in the fight and loses consciousness afterwards. The castle begins to collapse around Ico, but the Queen's spell on Yorda is broken, and a shadowy Yorda carries Ico safely out of the castle to a boat, sending him to drift to the shore alone. She says "Nonomori" (translating to "good bye") to Ico as he drifts away from the castle.<ref name="mecheri chap1"/>

Ico awakens on a beach shore to find the distant castle in ruins, and Yorda {{En dash}} in her human form {{En dash}} washed up nearby.<ref name="method development"/> She wakes up and smiles at Ico.

== Development ==
[[File:Kaido Kenji And Fumito Ueda.jpg|thumb|right|Producer [[Kenji Kaido]] and director [[Fumito Ueda]] (pictured in 2005)]]
[[File:TheNostalgiaoftheInfinite.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Giorgio de Chirico]]{{'s}} ''[[The Nostalgia of the Infinite]]'' served as inspiration for the game's cover art''.''<ref>{{Cite web |last=Wen |first=Alan |date=2021-09-21 |title=20 years later, ‘Ico’ remains a minimalist masterclass in cinematic and emotional storytelling |url=https://www.nme.com/features/ico-minimalist-masterclass-in-cinematic-and-emotional-storytelling-3050647 |access-date=2025-04-15 |website=NME |language=en-GB |archive-date=March 31, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250331230211/https://www.nme.com/features/ico-minimalist-masterclass-in-cinematic-and-emotional-storytelling-3050647 |url-status=live }}</ref>]]
Lead designer Fumito Ueda came up with the concept for ''Ico'' in 1997, envisioning a "boy meets girl" story where the two main characters would hold hands during their adventure, forming a bond between them without communication.<ref name="method development"/> Ueda's original inspiration for ''Ico'' was a TV commercial he saw, which depicted a woman holding the hand of a child while walking through the woods. He was also inspired by the [[manga]] series ''[[Galaxy Express 999]]'', where a woman protects a young boy as they travel through the galaxy, which he considered adapting into a new idea for video games.<ref>{{citation|title=The PlayStation 2 Interview: Fumita Ueda|magazine=[[PlayStation Official Magazine – UK|Official PlayStation 2 Magazine]]|issue=19|date=April 2002}}</ref> He also cited his work as an animator on [[Kenji Eno]]'s [[Sega Saturn]] game ''[[Enemy Zero]]'', which influenced ''Ico''<nowiki/>'s animation, [[cutscene]]s, lighting effects, sound design, and mature appeal.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.glixel.com/interviews/the-last-guardian-creator-talks-first-game-job-kenji-eno-w459337|title='The Last Guardian' Creator Ueda on His First Game Job and the Late Kenji Eno|website=Glixel|date=January 6, 2017|access-date=February 10, 2017|archive-date=February 11, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170211075843/http://www.glixel.com/interviews/the-last-guardian-creator-talks-first-game-job-kenji-eno-w459337|url-status=live}}</ref> Ueda was also inspired by the video game ''[[Another World (video game)|Another World]]'' (''Outer World'' in Japan), which used cinematic cutscenes, lacked any [[head-up display]] elements as to play like a movie, and also featured an emotional connection between two characters despite the use of minimal dialog.<ref name="ueda interview">{{cite web | url = http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/04/03/103,1175597139,69535,0,0.html | title = 5 days straight! Hiroshi famous game creators say that! The third, Fumito Ueda | publisher = [[Famitsu]] | date = April 3, 2007 | access-date = October 3, 2008 | language = ja | archive-date = March 3, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160303212808/http://www.famitsu.com/game/news/2007/04/03/103%2C1175597139%2C69535%2C0%2C0.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/news/6164199.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070118154610/http://www.gamespot.com/news/6164199.html | archive-date = January 18, 2007 | title = Q&A: Another World's Eric Chahi | website = [[GameSpot]] | date = January 16, 2007 | access-date = October 3, 2008 | first = Phil | last = Elliott}}</ref><ref name="ueda interview translation">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/108648/japanese-devs-speak-out-on-behalf-of-western-gaming-part-2/ | title = Japanese devs speak out on behalf of Western Gaming – Part 2 | publisher = [[GamePro]] | date = April 11, 2007 | access-date = October 3, 2008 | first = Matthew | last = Fitsko |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081206143928/http://www.gamepro.com/article/news/108648/japanese-devs-speak-out-on-behalf-of-western-gaming-part-2/|archive-date=December 6, 2008}}</ref> He also cited [[Sega Mega Drive]] games,<ref>{{cite web|author=blackoak|url=http://shmuplations.com/ico/|title=ICO – 2002 Developer Interview|website=Shmuplations|access-date=February 12, 2017|archive-date=September 12, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150912043021/http://shmuplations.com/ico/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Virtua Fighter]]'',<ref>[https://blog.eu.playstation.com/2016/11/18/watch-the-last-guardians-spectacular-new-cg-trailer/ Watch The Last Guardian’s spectacular new CG trailer] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825235215/https://blog.eu.playstation.com/2016/11/18/watch-the-last-guardians-spectacular-new-cg-trailer/ |date=August 25, 2017 }}, [[PlayStation Blog]], [[PlayStation Network]]</ref> ''[[Lemmings (video game)|Lemmings]]'', ''[[Flashback (1992 video game)|Flashback]]'', and the original ''[[Prince of Persia]]'' games as influences, specifically regarding animation and gameplay style.<ref name="ueda interview"/><ref name="ueda interview translation"/> With the help of an assistant, Ueda created an animation in [[LightWave 3D|Lightwave]] to better convey his vision.<ref name="method development">{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3122598 |title=The Method of Developing ICO |website=[[1UP.com|1UP]] |date=October 10, 2000 |access-date=October 7, 2008 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20151102133446/http://www.1up.com/features/method-developing-ico |archive-date=November 2, 2015 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the three-minute demonstration reel, Yorda had the horns instead of Ico, and flying robotic creatures were seen firing weapons at the castle.<ref name="method development"/><ref name="beta video">{{cite web | url = http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/9995 | title = Unreleased ICO PS1 'Beta' gameplay | website = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | date = March 14, 2007 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110519142938/http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/9995 | archive-date = May 19, 2011 }}</ref> Ueda stated that having this movie that represented his vision helped to keep the team on track during development. He reused this technique for the development of ''[[Shadow of the Colossus]]'', the team's next project.<ref name="method development"/><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.gamasutra.com/features/20060214/cifaldi_01.shtml | title = DICE: Climbing The Colossus: Ueda, Kaido On Creating Cult Classics | website = [[Gamasutra]] | date = February 14, 2006 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | first = Frank | last = Cifaldi | archive-date = April 8, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160408102912/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/2559/road_to_the_igf_thomas_bahon_.php | url-status = dead }}</ref>

Ueda, at the time an employee at [[Sony Computer Entertainment Japan]], began working with producer [[Kenji Kaido]] in 1998 to develop the idea and bring the game to the [[PlayStation (console)|PlayStation]]. He was granted his own unit as the studio primarily assisted on games from other Japanese developers.<ref name="hg101">{{cite web |last=DeRienzo |first=David |title=Hardcore Gaming 101: ICO / Shadow of the Colossus |url=https://hg101.kontek.net/icosotc/ico.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100110135440/http://hg101.kontek.net/icosotc/ico.htm |archive-date=January 10, 2010 |access-date=February 4, 2010 |work=Hardcore Gaming 101}}</ref> Ueda also brought in a number of people outside the video game industry to help with development. These consisted of two programmers, four artists, and one designer in addition to Ueda and Kaido.<ref name="method development" /><ref name="hg101" />

''Ico''{{'s}} design aesthetics were guided by three key notions: to make a game that would be different from others in the genre, feature an aesthetic style that would be consistently artistic, and have an imaginary yet realistic setting.<ref name="method development" /> This was achieved through the use of "subtracting design"; elements which interfered with the game's immersion were removed.<ref name="method development" /> This included removing any form of interface elements, keeping the gameplay focused only on escaping the castle, and having a single enemy type. An interim design of the game shows Ico and Yorda facing horned warriors similar to those who take Ico to the castle. The game originally focused on returning Yorda to her room in the castle after she was kidnapped by these warriors.<ref name="beta video" /> Ueda believed this version was too detailed for the graphics engine they had developed and, as part of the "subtracting design", replaced the warriors with the shadow creatures.<ref name="method development" /> On reflection, Ueda noted that the subtracting design may have taken too much out of the game, and did not go to as great an extreme with ''Shadow of the Colossus''.<ref name="method development" />

After two years of development, the team ran into limitations on PlayStation hardware and faced a critical choice: either terminate the project altogether, alter their vision to fit the constraints of the hardware, or continue to explore more options. The team decided to remain true to Ueda's vision, and began to use the [[PlayStation 2]]'s [[Emotion Engine]], taking advantage of the improved abilities of the platform.<ref name="game design ico">{{cite conference | title = Game Design Methods of Ico | first = Fumito | last = Ueda |author2=Kaido, Kenji | work = Game Developers Conference 2004 | date = March 24, 2004}}</ref><ref name="game design ico slides">{{cite web | url = http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20040329/ico.htm | title = Game Developers Conference 2004 – report | publisher = Game Watch | language = ja | date = March 29, 2004 | access-date = October 9, 2008 | first = Hitoshi | last = Yasushi | archive-date = August 17, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160817171412/http://game.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/20040329/ico.htm | url-status = live }}</ref> Character animation was accomplished through [[key frame]] animation instead of the more common [[motion capture]] technique.<ref name="nytimes review">{{cite news | url = https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=990CE3D8173EF93BA25753C1A9679C8B63 | title = Game Theory; When a Tiny Taut Gesture Upstages Demons and Noise | first = Charles | last = Herold | date = October 18, 2001 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | newspaper = The New York Times | archive-date = November 8, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121108112922/http://www.nytimes.com/2001/10/18/technology/game-theory-when-a-tiny-taut-gesture-upstages-demons-and-noise.html | url-status = live }}</ref> The game took about four years to develop.<ref name="method development"/> Ueda intentionally left the ending vague, not stating whether Yorda was alive, whether she would travel with Ico, or if it was simply the protagonist's dream.<ref name="method development"/>

''Ico'' uses minimal dialogue in a [[fictional language]] to provide the story throughout the game.<ref name="g4tv review" /> Voice actors included Kazuhiro Shindō as Ico, [[Rieko Takahashi]] as Yorda, and [[Misa Watanabe]] as the Queen.<ref>{{cite web |title=ICO Tech Info |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/ico/tech_info.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070710041947/http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/ico/tech_info.html |archive-date=July 10, 2007 |access-date=October 5, 2008 |website=[[GameSpot]]}}</ref> Ico and the Queen's words are presented in either English or Japanese subtitles depending on the release region, but Yorda's speech is presented in a symbolic language.<ref name="g4tv review" /> This symbolic language consists of 26 [[runic letters]] which correspond to the [[Latin alphabet]], and the script was designed by team member Kei Kuwabara.<ref>{{Cite web |last=James Riley |first=Samuel |date=2015-04-13 |title=Gaming's weird, mysterious, fictional languages, explained and translated |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/video-gamings-fictional-languages/ |access-date=2025-06-23 |website=GamesRadar+ |language=en}}</ref> Ueda opted not to provide the translation for Yorda's words as it would have overcome the [[language barrier]] between Ico and Yorda, and detracted from the "holding hands" concept of the game.<ref name="method development" /> The game initially had 115 lines of spoken dialogue, however 77 of these lines were not used in the final game and can only be accessed via [[Data mining|data-mining]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Matulef |first=Jeffrey |date=2015-07-21 |title=Ico's original script has been translated |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/icos-original-script-has-been-translated |access-date=2025-06-23 |website=Eurogamer.net |language=en |archive-date=December 1, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241201183811/https://www.eurogamer.net/icos-original-script-has-been-translated |url-status=live }}</ref>

== Release ==
[[File:Ico north american cover.jpg|thumb|upright|The cover used for the North American release of ''Ico''. In 2016, ''[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] ''called one of the worst video game covers of all time.<ref name="poly na cover" />]]The game was released in Japan on December 6, 2001 alongside ''[[Yoake no Mariko]]'', developed by another unit of Sony as a collaboration with [[Spümcø]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2018-12-03 |title=Jスタクリエイターがファンのみなさんをおもてなし！ ｢JAPAN Studio "Fun" Meeting 2018｣レポート |url=https://blog.ja.playstation.com/2018/12/03/20181203-japanstudio/ |access-date=2025-01-01 |website=PlayStation.Blog |language=ja |archive-date=July 13, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240713230116/https://blog.ja.playstation.com/2018/12/03/20181203-japanstudio/ |url-status=live }}</ref> The North American version was released two months earlier; due to time constraints caused by Sony's planned release date, it lacks the cover art intended by Ueda as well as additional features such as the two-player mode.<ref name="gamespot cheats">{{cite web |title=ICO Hints & Cheats |url=http://www.gamespot.com/ico-2001/cheats/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121215113701/http://www.gamespot.com/ico/cheats/ |archive-date=December 15, 2012 |access-date=May 25, 2012 |website=[[GameSpot]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Mielke |first=James |date=October 13, 2005 |title=Shadow Talk |url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3144673 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629175723/http://www.1up.com/features/shadow-talk |archive-date=June 29, 2012 |access-date=November 18, 2008 |website=[[1UP.com|1UP]]}}</ref> Ueda drew a cover inspired by the Italian artist [[Giorgio de Chirico]] and his work ''[[The Nostalgia of the Infinite]]''; it was used for the releases in Japan and [[PAL region]]s as Ueda was able to complete it for those regions' release dates. Ueda believed that "the surrealistic world of de Chirico matched the allegoric world of ''Ico''".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=2&cId=3143702 |title=A Giant in the Making |website=[[1UP.com|1UP]] |date=September 23, 2005 |access-date=October 5, 2008 |first=James |last=Mielke |author2=Rybicki, Joe |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130306095204/http://www.1up.com/do/feature?pager.offset=0&cId=3143702|archive-date=March 6, 2013}}</ref> Since release, the North American cover has been considered one of the worst pieces of cover art for video games in contrast to the game's quality.<ref name="gr cover">{{cite web | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/12-great-games-god-awful-box-art/ | title = 12 great games with god-awful box art | first = Ryan | last = Taljonik | date = August 21, 2013 | access-date = February 15, 2020 | work = [[GamesRadar]] | archive-date = February 16, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200216001845/https://www.gamesradar.com/12-great-games-god-awful-box-art/ | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="poly na cover">{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/2016/10/26/13417522/shadow-of-the-colossus-ico-art-prints-cook-becker | title = Shadow of the Colossus and Ico's non-terrible box art now prints for your home | first = Michael | last = McWhertor | date = October 26, 2016 | access-date = February 15, 2020 | work = [[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] | archive-date = February 16, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200216001843/https://www.polygon.com/2016/10/26/13417522/shadow-of-the-colossus-ico-art-prints-cook-becker | url-status = live }}</ref> On reflection, Yasuhide Kobayashi, vice-president of Sony's Japan division, believed the North American box art and lack of an identifiable English title led to the game's poor sales in the United States, and stated plans to correct that for the release of ''[[The Last Guardian]]''.<ref name="tlg name">{{cite web |last=Elliot |first=Phil |date=September 17, 2009 |title=Last Guardian game 'named for US, Europe' Kobayashi |url=http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/last-guardian-game-named-for-us-europe-kobayashi |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121217075529/http://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/last-guardian-game-named-for-us-europe-kobayashi |archive-date=December 17, 2012 |access-date=September 17, 2009 |publisher=[[GamesIndustry.biz]]}}</ref> For its original release, a limited edition of the game was available in PAL regions that included a cardboard wrapping displaying artwork from the game and four art cards inside the box.<ref name="extrasandico">{{cite magazine | last =Wales | first = Matt | year=2006 | title=PAL Colossus gets exclusive content | url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=133500 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080616164309/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=133500 | archive-date=June 16, 2008 | magazine= [[Computer and Video Games]] | access-date = October 8, 2008 }}</ref> The game was re-released as a standard edition in 2006 across all PAL regions except France after the 2005 release of ''Shadow of the Colossus'', ''Ico''{{'s}} [[spiritual sequel]], to allow players to "fill the gap in their collection".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news_041105_icoreissue | title = ICO re-issue confirmed | website = [[Eurogamer]] | first = Kristen | last = Reed | date = November 4, 2005 | access-date = October 5, 2008 | archive-date = March 14, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130314075458/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/news_041105_icoreissue | url-status = live }}</ref>

Despite the positive reception by critics, the original title did not sell well. By 2009, only 700,000 copies were sold worldwide, with 270,000 in the United States,<ref name="tlg name" /> and the bulk in PAL regions.<ref name="hg101" /> Ueda considered his design by subtraction approach may have hurt the marketing of the game, as at the time of the game's release, promotion of video games were primarily done through screenshots, and as ''Ico'' lacked any heads-up display, it appeared uninteresting to potential buyers.<ref name="wired influence">{{cite magazine |last=Kohler |first=Chris |date=September 12, 2013 |title=The Obscure Cult Game That's Secretly Inspiring Everything |url=https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2013/09/ico/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130915172714/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2013/09/ico |archive-date=September 15, 2013 |access-date=September 13, 2013 |magazine=[[Wired (magazine)|Wired]]}}</ref>
== Reception ==
{{Video game reviews
<!-- Aggregators -->
| MC = 90/100<ref name="MC" />
<!-- Reviewers -->
| EuroG = 10/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_ico |title=Ico |website=[[Eurogamer]] |last=Bramwell |first=Tom |date=March 30, 2002 |access-date=September 11, 2014 |archive-date=September 13, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140913033154/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_ico |url-status=live }}</ref>
 | Allgame = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="allgamereview">{{cite web |url = http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=25262&tab=review |title = Ico – Review| author = Frankle, Gavin |publisher = [[AllGame]] |access-date =August 18, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141114204502/http://www.allgame.com/game.php?id=25262&tab=review |archive-date=November 14, 2014}}</ref>
| Fam = 30/40<ref name="Famitsu" />
| GSpot = 8.5/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ico-review/1900-2815038 |title=Ico Review |website=[[GameSpot]] |last=Lopez |first=Miguel |date=September 26, 2001 |access-date=September 11, 2014 |archive-date=December 2, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202014606/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ico-review/1900-2815038/ |url-status=live }}</ref>
| IGN = 9.4/10<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2001/09/25/ico |title=Ico |website=[[IGN]] |last=Smith |first=David |date=September 25, 2001 |access-date=September 11, 2014 |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006093727/http://www.ign.com/articles/2001/09/25/ico |url-status=live }}</ref>
| GameRev = B+<ref name="gamerev review"/>
| Edge = 8/10<ref name="Edge review"/>
| NGen = {{Rating|4|5}}<ref name="NG"/>
}}

''Ico'' received critical acclaim, becoming a [[cult following|cult]] hit among [[video game player|players]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.1up.com/do/feature?cId=3141616 | title = Top 10 Cult Classics | website = [[1UP.com|1UP]] | date = June 22, 2005 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | archive-date = May 25, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160525015313/http://www.1up.com/features/top-10-cult-classics | url-status = dead }}</ref> The game has an aggregated review score of 90 out of 100 at [[Metacritic]].<ref name="MC">{{cite web | url = http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/ico | title = Ico (ps2: 2001) | website = [[Metacritic]] | access-date = October 4, 2008 | archive-date = November 11, 2001 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20011111200128/http://www.metacritic.com/games/platforms/ps2/ico | url-status = live }}</ref> In Japan, ''[[Famitsu]]'' magazine gave the PlayStation{{nbsp}}2 version a score of 30 out of 40.<ref name="Famitsu">{{cite magazine | title = プレイステーション2 – ICO (PlayStation 2 – Ico) | magazine = [[Famitsu]] | date = June 30, 2006 | page = 90 | volume = 915 | issue = 2 | language = ja }}</ref> The game is considered by some to be one of the greatest games of all time; ''[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]]'' ranked ''Ico'' as the 13th top game in a 2007 listing,<ref>{{cite magazine|url=http://www.edge-online.com/magazine/edges-top-100-games-of-all-time?page=0%2C0 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080803214313/http://www.edge-online.com/magazine/edges-top-100-games-of-all-time?page=0%2C0 |archive-date=August 3, 2008 |title=Edge's Top 100 Games of All Time |date=July 2, 2007 |access-date=October 9, 2008 |magazine=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]] |url-status=dead }}</ref> while ''[[IGN]]'' ranked the game at number 18 in 2005,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://top100.ign.com/2005/index.html |title=IGN's Top 100 Games |website=IGN |year=2005 |access-date=October 9, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090227082124/http://top100.ign.com/2005/index.html |archive-date=February 27, 2009 }}</ref> and at number 57 in 2007.<ref name="ign top 100 2007">{{cite web | url = http://top100.ign.com/2007/index.html | title = The Top 100 Games of All Time! | website = IGN | year = 2007 | access-date = October 9, 2008 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141121172504/http://top100.ign.com/2007/ign_top_game_57.html | archive-date = November 21, 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref> ''Ico'' has been used as an example of a [[Video games as art|game that is a work of art]].<ref name="telegraph art"/><ref>{{cite news | url = https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9E05E1D81F38F936A25752C1A9679C8B63 | title = Game Theory; To Play Emperor or God, or Grunt in a Tennis Skirt | first = Charles | last = Herold | date = November 15, 2001 | access-date = October 9, 2008 | newspaper = [[The New York Times]] | archive-date = November 8, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121108123047/http://www.nytimes.com/2001/11/15/technology/game-theory-to-play-emperor-or-god-or-grunt-in-a-tennis-skirt.html | url-status = live }}</ref><ref name="gamespy review">{{cite web | url = http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/october01/ico/index.shtm | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20081021085522/http://archive.gamespy.com/reviews/october01/ico/index.shtm | archive-date = October 21, 2008 | title = Reviews: ICO | publisher = [[GameSpy]] | first = Andrei | last = Alupului |date=October 2001 | access-date = October 9, 2008}}</ref> Ueda commented that he purposely tried to distance ''Ico'' from conventional video games due to the negative image video games were receiving at that time, in order to draw more people to the title.<ref name=":0">{{Cite web |last=Wired |title=Behind the Shadow: Fumito Ueda |url=https://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2006/03/70286 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130720030959/http://www.wired.com/science/discoveries/news/2006/03/70286 |archive-date=July 20, 2013 |access-date=2025-04-18 |website=WIRED |language=en }}</ref>

Some reviewers have likened ''Ico'' to older, simpler adventure games such as ''[[Prince of Persia]]'' or ''[[Tomb Raider]]'', that seek to evoke an emotional experience from the player;<ref name="Edge review">{{cite magazine |title=Ico |magazine=[[Edge (magazine)|Edge]] |publisher=[[Future Publishing]] |issue=104 |pages=80–81 |date=December 2001}}</ref><ref name="telegraph art">{{cite news | url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/3358016/Why-videogamers-are-artists-at-heart.html | title = Why videogamers are artists at heart | newspaper = [[The Daily Telegraph]] | date = July 26, 2008 | access-date = October 9, 2008 | first = Tom | last = Hoggins | archive-date = February 28, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160228070007/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/technology/3358016/Why-videogamers-are-artists-at-heart.html | url-status = live }}</ref> ''[[IGN]]''{{'s}} David Smith commented that while simple, as an experience the game was "near indescribable."<ref name="ign review">{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/164/164833p1.html | title = Ico | first = David | last = Smith | date = September 25, 2001 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | website = IGN | archive-date = August 17, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120817191505/http://ps2.ign.com/articles/164/164833p1.html | url-status = live }}</ref> The game's graphics and sound contributed strongly to the positive reactions from critics; Smith continues that "The visuals, sound, and original puzzle design come together to make something that is almost, if not quite, completely unlike anything else on the market, and feels wonderful because of it."<ref name="ign review"/> Many reviewers were impressed with the expansiveness and the details given to the environments, the animation used for the main characters despite their low polygon count, and the use of lighting effects.<ref name="g4tv review"/><ref name="gamespot review"/><ref name="ign review"/> ''Ico''{{'s}} ambiance, created by the simple music and the small attention to detail in the voice work of the main characters, were also called out as strong points for the game. Charles Herold of ''[[The New York Times]]'' summed up his review stating that "Ico is not a perfect game, but it is a game of perfect moments."<ref name="nytimes review"/> Herold later commented that ''Ico'' breaks the mold of games that usually involve companions. In most games these companions are invulnerable and players will generally not concern with the non-playable characters' fate, but ''Ico'' creates the sense of "trust and childish fragility" around Yorda, which leads to the character being "the game's entire focus".<ref name="wellplayed">{{cite book | title = Well Played 1.0: Video Game, Value and Meaning | isbn = 978-0557069750 | editor = Drew Davidson | year = 2009 | first = Charles | last = Herold | chapter = Ico: Creating an Emotional Connection with a Pixelated Damsel | publisher = ETC Press | url = http://www.etc.cmu.edu/etcpress/content/ico-charles-herold | display-editors = etal | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160321223055/http://press.etc.cmu.edu/content/ico-charles-herold | archive-date = March 21, 2016 }}</ref>

The game is noted for its simple combat system that would "disappoint those craving sheer mechanical depth", as stated by ''[[GameSpot]]''{{'s}} Miguel Lopez.<ref name="gamespot review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/adventure/ico/review.html?tag=tabs;reviews | title = Ico for PlayStation 2 Review | first = Miguel | last = Lopez | website = [[GameSpot]] | date = September 26, 2001 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | archive-date = February 4, 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150204052645/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/ico-review/1900-2815038 | url-status = live }}</ref> The game's puzzle design has been praised for creating a rewarding experience for players who work through challenges on their own;<ref name="ign review"/> Kristen Reed of ''[[Eurogamer]]'', for example, said that "you quietly, logically, willingly proceed, and the illusion is perfect: the game never tells you what to do, even though the game is always telling you what to do".<ref name="eurogamer review">{{cite web | url = http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_icorereview_ps2 | title = Ico Review | date = February 17, 2006 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | first = Kristen | last = Reed | website = [[Eurogamer]] | archive-date = March 14, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130314075351/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/r_icorereview_ps2 | url-status = live }}</ref> ''Ico'' is also considered a short game, taking between seven and ten hours for a single play through, which ''[[GameRevolution]]'' calls "painfully short" with "no replay outside of self-imposed challenges".<ref name="gamerev review">{{cite web | url = http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ps2/ico | title = 'Ico' (PS2) Review | publisher = [[Game Revolution]] | date = October 9, 2001 | access-date = May 25, 2009 | first = Johnny | last = Liu | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120509194056/http://www.gamerevolution.com/review/ico | archive-date = May 9, 2012 | url-status = dead }}</ref> [[G4TV]]'s Matthew Keil, however, felt that "the game is so strong, many will finish 'Ico' in one or two sittings".<ref name="g4tv review" /> The lack of features in the North American release, which would become unlocked on subsequent playthroughs after completing the game, was said to reduce the replay value of the title.<ref name="g4tv review"/><ref name="ign review"/> ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'' notes that "Yorda would probably be the worst companion -she's scatterbrained and helpless; if not for the fact that the player develops a bond with her, making the game's ending all the more heartrending."<ref>Jeremy Parish, "Best Buddies & Foul-weather Friends: A history of co-op games, good and bad", ''Electronic Gaming Monthly'' 234 (November 2008): 92.</ref>

Francesca Reyes reviewed the game for ''[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]'', rating it four stars out of five, and stated that "Intensely involving and wonderfully simple, ''Ico'', though flawed, deserves to find its niche as a quiet classic."<ref name="NG">{{cite magazine|last=Reyes|first=Francesca|title=Finals|magazine=[[Next Generation (magazine)|Next Generation]]|volume=4|issue=11|publisher=[[Imagine Media]]|date=November 2001|page=105}}</ref>

=== Awards ===
''Ico'' received several acclamations from the video game press, and was considered to be one of the Games of the Year by many publications, despite competing with releases such as ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', ''[[Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty]]'', and ''[[Grand Theft Auto III]]''.<ref name="ign top 100 2007"/> The game received three [[Game Developers Choice Awards]] in 2002, including "Excellence in Level Design", "Excellence in Visual Arts", and "Game Innovation Spotlight".<ref>{{cite web | archive-date = March 10, 2005 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20050310040732/http://www.igda.org/awards/pr_2002_0322.htm | url = http://www.igda.org/awards/pr_2002_0322.htm | title = Game Developers Choice Awards Recipients Named | publisher = [[International Game Developers Association]] | date = March 22, 2002 | access-date = October 7, 2008}}</ref> The game won two [[Interactive Achievement Awards]] from the [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] in [[5th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards|2002]] for outstanding achievement in "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Outstanding Achievement in Art Direction|Art Direction]]" and "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Outstanding Achievement in Story|Character or Story Development]]"; it also received nominations for "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Game of the Year|Game of the Year]]", "Console Game of the Year", "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Adventure Game of the Year|Console Action/Adventure Game of the Year]]", "Innovation in Console Gaming", and outstanding achievement in "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Outstanding Achievement in Game Design|Game Design]]" and "[[D.I.C.E. Award for Outstanding Achievement in Audio Design|Sound Design]]".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.interactive.org/awards/2002_5th_awards.asp | title = 5th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards | publisher = [[Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences]] | date = February 25, 2002 | access-date = September 27, 2011 | archive-date = June 29, 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160629131730/http://www.interactive.org/awards/2002_5th_awards.asp | url-status = live }}</ref> It won ''GameSpot''{{'s}} annual "Best Graphics, Artistic" prize among [[console game]]s.<ref name=bestworst2001>{{cite web | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020803185618/http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2001/ | url=http://gamespot.com/gamespot/features/video/bestof_2001/ | title=''GameSpot''{{'s}} Best and Worst Video Games of 2001 | author=''GameSpot VG'' Staff | date=February 23, 2002 | work=[[GameSpot]] | archive-date=August 3, 2002 | url-status=dead }}</ref> It was one of three titles to win the Special Award at the sixth [[CESA Game Awards]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://awards.cesa.or.jp/2002/ceremony/awards.html|title=GAME AWARDS 2001-2002: 特別賞|trans-title=|department=発表授賞式|work=第６回 CESA GAME AWARDS|publisher=[[Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association]]|access-date=June 23, 2022|archive-date=June 23, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220623055601/https://awards.cesa.or.jp/2002/ceremony/awards.html|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://awards.cesa.or.jp/2002/prizelist/awards/a09.html|title=ＩＣＯ|department=GAME AWARDS 2001-2002 特別賞受賞作品|work=第６回 CESA GAME AWARDS|publisher=Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association}}</ref>

== Legacy ==
''Ico'' influenced numerous other video games, which borrowed from its simple and visual design ideals.<ref name="wired influence"/> Several game designers, such as [[Eiji Aonuma]], [[Hideo Kojima]], and [[Jordan Mechner]], have cited ''Ico'' as having influenced the visual appearance of their games, including ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess]]'', ''[[Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater]]'', and ''[[Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time]]'', respectively.<ref name="hg101"/> [[Marc Laidlaw]], [[scriptwriter]] for the [[Half-Life series|''Half-Life'' series]], commented that, among several other more memorable moments in the game, the point where Yorda attempts to save Ico from falling off the damaged bridge was "a significant event not only for that game, but for the art of game design".<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.gamedeveloper.com/design/marc-laidlaw-on-story-and-narrative | title = Marc Laidlaw On Story And Narrative In Half-Life | first = Simon | last = Carless | date = October 8, 2008 | access-date = December 21, 2017 | website = [[Gamasutra]] | archive-date = November 7, 2017 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20171107113004/https://www.gamasutra.com/view/feature/131227/marc_laidlaw_on_story_and_narrative.php | url-status = live }}</ref> The [[Naughty Dog]] team used ''Ico'' as part of the inspiration for developing ''[[Uncharted 3]]''.<ref name="wired influence"/> Vander Caballero credits ''Ico'' for inspiring the gameplay of ''[[Papo & Yo]]''.<ref>{{cite magazine | url = https://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/08/papo-and-yo-review | title = Review: Autobiographical Story of Child Abuse Papo & Yo Pushes Games Forward, Awkwardly | first = Chris | last = Kohler | date = August 27, 2012 | access-date = August 28, 2012 | magazine = [[Wired (magazine)|Wired]] | archive-date = November 9, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121109121806/http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2012/08/review-autobiographical-story-of-child-abuse-papo-yo-pushes-games-forward-awkwardly/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Phil Fish used the design by subtraction approach in developing the title ''[[Fez (video game)|Fez]]''.<ref name="wired influence"/> The developers of both ''[[Brothers: A Tale of Two Sons]]'' and ''[[Rime (video game)|Rime]]'' have ''Ico'' as a core influence on their design.<ref name="wired influence"/> [[Hidetaka Miyazaki]], creator and director of the ''[[Dark Souls]]'' series, cited ''Ico'' as a key influence to him becoming involved in developing video games, stating that ''Ico'' "awoke me to the possibilities of the medium".<ref>{{cite web | last1=Parkin | first1=Simon | title=Bloodborne creator Hidetaka Miyazaki: 'I didn't have a dream. I wasn't ambitious' | url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/mar/31/bloodborne-dark-souls-creator-hidetaka-miyazaki-interview | work=[[The Guardian]] | access-date=May 9, 2015 | date=March 31, 2015 | archive-date=June 3, 2015 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150603192210/http://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/mar/31/bloodborne-dark-souls-creator-hidetaka-miyazaki-interview | url-status=live }}</ref> [[Goichi Suda]] aka Suda51, said that ''Ico''{{'s}} save game method, where the player has Ico and Yorda sit on a bench to save the game, inspired the save game method in ''[[No More Heroes (video game)|No More Heroes]]'' where the player-character sits on a toilet to save the game.<ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/top-game-designers-pay-tribute-to-ico-on-its-20th-anniversary-in-japan/ | title = Top game designers pay tribute to Ico on its 20th anniversary in Japan | first = Chris | last = Scullion | date = December 6, 2021 | accessdate = December 6, 2021 | work = [[Video Games Chronicle]] | archive-date = December 6, 2021 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20211206122905/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/top-game-designers-pay-tribute-to-ico-on-its-20th-anniversary-in-japan/ | url-status = live }}</ref>

''Ico'' was one of the first video games to use a [[Bloom (shader effect)|bloom]] lighting effect, which later became a popular effect in video games.<ref name="1up bittersweet"/> [[Patrice Désilets]], creator of [[Ubisoft]] games such as ''[[Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed]]'', cited ''Ico'' as an influence on the game design of ''The Sands of Time''.<ref>{{cite web |title='Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time' director looks back on the iconic game in 'Devs Play' video |url=https://siliconangle.com/2015/12/23/prince-of-persia-the-sands-of-time-director-looks-back-on-the-iconic-game-in-devs-play-video/ |website=SiliconANGLE |access-date=April 5, 2019 |date=December 23, 2015 |archive-date=April 6, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190406185550/https://siliconangle.com/2015/12/23/prince-of-persia-the-sands-of-time-director-looks-back-on-the-iconic-game-in-devs-play-video/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Devs Play S2E03 · "Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time" with Patrice Désilets and Greg Rice |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ODNMBG4MUA | archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211114/_ODNMBG4MUA| archive-date=November 14, 2021 | url-status=live|website=[[YouTube]] |publisher=[[Double Fine Productions]] |access-date=April 5, 2019 |date=December 22, 2015}}{{cbignore}}</ref> [[Jenova Chen]], creator of [[art game]]s such as ''[[Flower (video game)|Flower]]'' and ''[[Journey (2012 video game)|Journey]]'', cited ''Ico'' as one of his biggest influences.<ref name="JSint">{{cite web|last=Miller|first=Glen|title=Joystiq interview: Jenova Chen|url=http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/18/joystiq-qanda-jenova-chen/|publisher=[[Joystiq]]|access-date=January 5, 2011|date=September 18, 2006|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090102012220/http://www.joystiq.com/2006/09/18/joystiq-qanda-jenova-chen/|archive-date=January 2, 2009|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''Ico'' was also cited as an influence by ''[[Halo 4]]'' creative director [[Josh Holmes (video game designer)|Josh Holmes]].<ref name="wired influence"/> [[Naughty Dog]] said ''[[The Last of Us (video game)|The Last of Us]]'' was influenced by ''Ico'', particularly in terms of character building and interaction,<ref>{{cite web |last=Prestia |first=Gaetano |url=http://ps3.mmgn.com/News/the-last-of-us-inspired-by-ico-re4 |title=The Last Of Us inspired by Ico, RE4 – PS3 News &#124; MMGN Australia |publisher=Ps3.mmgn.com |access-date=July 16, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130610034155/http://ps3.mmgn.com/News/the-last-of-us-inspired-by-ico-re4 |archive-date=June 10, 2013  }}</ref> and [[Neil Druckmann]] credited the gameplay of ''Ico'' as a key inspiration when he began developing the story of ''The Last of Us''.<ref name="failure">{{cite web|url=https://www.theverge.com/2013/9/19/4744008/making-the-last-of-us-ps3 |title=The power of failure: making 'The Last of Us' |last=Webster |first=Andrew |work=[[The Verge]] |publisher=[[Vox Media]] |date=September 19, 2013 |access-date=October 20, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130921123128/http://www.theverge.com/2013/9/19/4744008/making-the-last-of-us-ps3 |archive-date=September 21, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/01/02/can-the-last-of-us-break-the-curse-of-bad-video-game-adaptations | title = Can "The Last of Us" Break the Curse of Bad Video-Game Adaptations? | first = Alex | last = Barasch | date = December 26, 2022 | accessdate = January 15, 2023 | work = [[New Yorker (magazine)|New Yorker]] | archive-date = December 26, 2022 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20221226111109/https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2023/01/02/can-the-last-of-us-break-the-curse-of-bad-video-game-adaptations | url-status = live }}</ref>

Film director [[Guillermo del Toro]] cited both ''Ico'' and ''Shadow of the Colossus'' as "masterpieces" and part of his directorial influence.<ref>{{cite magazine | url = http://www.next-gen.biz/features/hellboy-director-talks-gaming | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100812073133/http://www.next-gen.biz/features/hellboy-director-talks-gaming | archive-date = August 12, 2010 | title = Hellboy Director Talks Gaming | magazine = [[Edge (magazine)|Edge]] | date = August 26, 2008 | access-date = October 4, 2008}}</ref> [[Jonny Greenwood]] of [[Radiohead]] considers it one of his top ten video games of all time, saying it "might be the best one".<ref name="Dead Air Space">{{cite web | url = http://www.radiohead.com/deadairspace/index.php?a=564 | title = Jonny Greenwood list | date = June 3, 2010 | access-date = June 4, 2010 | first = Jonny | last = Greenwood | url-status = dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20101201102907/http://www.radiohead.com/deadairspace/100603/Office-Chart-for-a-week-off | archive-date = December 1, 2010 }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=June 3, 2010|title=Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood lists his current top 10 video games|url=https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/radiohead-s-jonny-greenwood-lists-his-current-top-10-video-games-cherishes-ico-5545893.html|access-date=November 18, 2020|website=The Independent|language=en|archive-date=November 8, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108135907/http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/gadgets-and-tech/radiohead-s-jonny-greenwood-lists-his-current-top-10-video-games-cherishes-ico-5545893.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Related media ===
''Ico''{{'s}} audio featured a limited amount of music and sound effects. The [[soundtrack]], {{nihongo|''Ico: Kiri no Naka no Senritsu''|ICO～霧の中の旋律～|Iko Kiri no Naka no Senritsu|lit. "Ico: Melody in the mist"}}, was composed by [[Michiru Oshima]] and sound unit "pentagon" (Koichi Yamazaki & Mitsukuni Murayama) and released in Japan by [[Sony Music Entertainment]] on February 20, 2002. The album was distributed by Sony Music Entertainment Visual Works. The last song of the CD, "ICO -You Were There-", includes vocals sung by former [[Libera (choir)|Libera]] member Steven Geraghty.<ref>{{cite web |title=Steven Geraghty |url=http://www.boysoloist.com/artist.asp?VID=334 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120924100604/http://www.boysoloist.com/artist.asp?VID=334 |archive-date=September 24, 2012 |access-date=October 5, 2008 |publisher=Boy Choir and Soloist Directory}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |date=June 1, 2003 |title=Melody light comfort that invites the ultimate healing of hard Romantic. ... Released Soon! |url=http://www.hmv.co.jp/news/newsdetail.asp?newsnum=305300108 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212223747/http://www.hmv.co.jp/news/newsdetail.asp?newsnum=305300108 |archive-date=February 12, 2012 |access-date=November 19, 2008 |publisher=[[HMV]] |language=ja |quote="大島ミチルが手掛けたゲーム・サントラICO霧の中の旋律ではLiberaリベラのヴォーカリストSteven Geraghtyスティーブン・ガラティがヴォーカルで参加" – "Oshima Michiru who managed the game soundtrack for ICO with vocals by Steven Geraghty of Libera"}}</ref>

A [[novelization]] of the game titled {{nihongo|''Ico: Kiri no Shiro''|ICO-霧の城-|Iko: Kiri no Shiro|{{lit|Ico: Castle of Mist}}}}<!--(ISBN 4-06-212441-6)--> was released in Japan in 2004.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Miyabe |first1=Miyuki |author-link1=Miyuki Miyabe |title=ICO: Castle in the Mist |publisher=Kodansha Ltd. |year=2011 |isbn=978-1-4215-4286-7 |edition=Haikasoru eBook |location=Tokyo |trans-title=Iko: Kiri no Shiro}}</ref> Author [[Miyuki Miyabe]] wrote the novel because of her appreciation of the game.<ref>{{cite web |date=May 1, 2002 |title=ICO Novel Coming In Japan |url=http://ps2.ign.com/articles/358/358332p1.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103220137/http://www.ign.com/articles/2002/05/01/ico-novel-coming-in-japan |archive-date=November 3, 2012 |access-date=October 6, 2008 |website=IGN}}</ref> A Korean translation of the novel, entitled 이코 – 안개의 성 (''I-ko: An-gae-eui Seong'') came out the following year, by Hwangmae Publishers,<ref>{{cite web |title=ICO: Castle of Mist |url=http://book.naver.com/bookdb/book_detail.nhn?bid=1962956 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150319085335/http://book.naver.com/bookdb/book_detail.nhn?bid=1962956 |archive-date=March 19, 2015 |access-date=August 26, 2010 |publisher=Hwangmae Publishers |language=ko}}</ref> while an English translation was published by [[Viz Media]] on August 16, 2011.<ref>{{cite web |last=Caoili |first=Eric |date=January 31, 2011 |title=Viz Media Publishing Miyuki Miyabe's Ico Novel |url=http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2011/01/viz_media_publishing_miyuki_mi.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012015640/http://www.gamesetwatch.com/2011/01/viz_media_publishing_miyuki_mi.php |archive-date=October 12, 2012 |access-date=January 31, 2011 |publisher=[[GameSetWatch]]}}</ref>

On June 11th, 2009, costumes (including Ico and Yorda), stickers, and sound effects from ''Ico'' were released as part of a paid downloadable add-on pack for the game ''[[LittleBigPlanet (2008 video game)|LittleBigPlanet]]'', titled ''Team Ico'', which was available for download as DLC on the [[PlayStation Network]] store alongside similar materials from ''Shadow of the Colossus'', after being teased by the game's developers [[Media Molecule]] about two weeks prior.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Media Molecule - we make games. » Blog Archive » Store update: Team ICO Pack |url=https://www.mediamolecule.com/2009/06/11/store-update-team-ico-pack/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090616110317/http://www.mediamolecule.com/2009/06/11/store-update-team-ico-pack/ |archive-date=June 16, 2009 |access-date=2025-01-03 |website=www.mediamolecule.com |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Ig |first=Keane |date=May 29, 2009 |title=ICO Invading LittleBigPlanet? |url=http://www.escapistmagazine.com/news/view/92053-ICO-Invading-LittleBigPlanet |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120319181641/http://www.escapistmagazine.com/news/view/92053-ICO-Invading-LittleBigPlanet |archive-date=March 19, 2012 |access-date=May 30, 2009 |publisher=The Escapist}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Boyer |first=Brandon |date=June 8, 2009 |title=LittleBigWatch: Media Molecule reveal Ico, Yorda costumes |url=http://www.offworld.com/2009/06/littlebigwatch-media-molecule-2.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100225132344/http://www.offworld.com/2009/06/littlebigwatch-media-molecule-2.html |archive-date=February 25, 2010 |access-date=June 8, 2009 |publisher=Offworld}}</ref> Ico makes cameo appearances in ''[[Astro's Playroom]]'' and ''[[Astro Bot]]'', Yorda also appearing in the latter.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Every cameraman reference in Astro's Playroom |url=https://www.gamepur.com/guides/every-cameraman-reference-in-astros-playroom |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210209122822/https://www.gamepur.com/guides/every-cameraman-reference-in-astros-playroom |archive-date=February 9, 2021 |access-date=November 12, 2020 |website=Gamepur |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Bowen |first=Tom |date=2024-09-05 |title=All Cameo Bots in Astro Bot |url=https://gamerant.com/astro-bot-all-cameos-every-character-list-identities/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250313153540/https://gamerant.com/astro-bot-all-cameos-every-character-list-identities/ |archive-date=March 13, 2025 |access-date=2025-03-24 |website=Game Rant |language=en}}</ref>
=== Other Team Ico games ===
{{Main|Shadow of the Colossus{{!}}''Shadow of the Colossus''|The Last Guardian{{!}}''The Last Guardian''}}

''[[Shadow of the Colossus]]'' was developed by the same team and released for the [[PlayStation 2]] in 2005. The game features similar graphics, gameplay, and storytelling elements as ''Ico''. The game was referred by its working title "Nico" ("Ni" being Japanese for the number 2") until the final title was revealed.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps2.ign.com/articles/532/532276p1.html | title = NICO Semi-Confirmed | first = Ed | last = Lewis | date = July 10, 2004 | access-date = October 7, 2008 | website = IGN | archive-date = August 26, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140826203436/http://www.ign.com/articles/2004/07/21/nico-semi-confirmed | url-status = live }}</ref> Ueda, when asked about the connection between the two games, stated that ''Shadow of the Colossus'' is a [[prequel]] to ''Ico''.<ref name=":0" />

The team's third game, ''[[The Last Guardian]]'', was announced for the [[PlayStation 3]] at [[E3 2009]]. The game centers on the connection between a young boy and a large [[griffin]]-like creature that he befriends, requiring the player to cooperate with the creature to solve the game's puzzles. The game fell into [[development hell]] due to hardware limitations and the departure of Ueda from Sony around 2012, along with other Team Ico members, though Ueda and the other members continued to work on the game via consulting contracts. Development subsequently switched to the [[PlayStation 4]] in 2012, and the game was reannounced in 2015 and released in December 2016.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps3.ign.com/articles/847/847426p1.html | title = Team ICO's Next | date = January 24, 2008 | access-date = October 6, 2008 | first = Chris | last = Roper | website = IGN | archive-date = December 7, 2014 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141207213642/http://www.ign.com/articles/2008/01/24/team-icos-next | url-status = live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.vg247.com/2008/08/28/yoshida-team-icos-ps3-game-will-be-shown-soon/ | title = Yoshida: Team ICO's PS3 game will be shown "soon" | date = July 28, 2008 | access-date = October 6, 2008 | publisher = Video Gaming 24/7 | archive-date = December 18, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121218055036/http://www.vg247.com/2008/08/28/yoshida-team-icos-ps3-game-will-be-shown-soon/ | url-status = live }}</ref> Ueda has said that "the essence of the game is rather close to ''Ico''".<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.shacknews.com/onearticle.x/58706 | title = Early Trailer for Team Ico's 'Project Trico' Leaked? | first = Nick | last = Breckon | date = May 19, 2009 | access-date = May 19, 2009 | publisher = [[Shacknews]] | archive-date = August 19, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120819150659/http://www.shacknews.com/article/58706/early-trailer-for-team-icos | url-status = live }}</ref>

===HD remaster===
{{Further|The Ico & Shadow of the Colossus Collection{{!}}''The Ico & Shadow of the Colossus Collection''}}
''Ico'', along with ''Shadow of the Colossus'', received a high-definition remaster for the PlayStation{{nbsp}}3 that was released worldwide in September 2011. In addition to improved graphics, the games were updated to include support for [[stereoscopic 3D]] and PlayStation Trophies. The ''Ico'' port was also based on the European version, and includes features such as Yorda's translation and the two-player mode.<ref>{{cite web |last=Nutt |first=Christian |date=September 16, 2010 |title=TGS: Reawakening The Last Guardian |url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/30451/TGS_Reawakening_The_Last_Guardian.php |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304060735/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/30451/TGS_Reawakening_The_Last_Guardian.php |archive-date=March 4, 2016 |access-date=September 16, 2010 |website=[[Gamasutra]]}}</ref> In North America and Europe/PAL regions, the two games were released as a single retail collection,<ref>{{cite web | url = http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/09/15/ico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-collection-hits-ps3-spring-2011-with-3d/0 | title = Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Collection hits PS3 Spring 2011 with 3D | first = Sid | last = Shuman | date = September 16, 2010 | access-date = September 16, 2010 | publisher = [[Sony Computer Entertainment of America]] | archive-date = October 2, 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121002181016/http://blog.us.playstation.com/2010/09/15/ico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-collection-hits-ps3-spring-2011-with-3d/0/ | url-status = live }}</ref> while in Japan, they were released as separate titles.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://ps3.ign.com/articles/112/1120651p1.html | title = Ico and Shadow of the Colossus Remakes Confirmed | date = September 14, 2010 | access-date = September 14, 2010 | website = IGN | first = Anoop | last = Gantayat | archive-date = January 21, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130121145930/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/09/15/ico-and-shadow-of-the-colossus-remakes-confirmed | url-status = live }}</ref> Both games have since been released separately as downloadable titles on the PlayStation Network store.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/01/12/shadow-of-the-colossus-and-ico-coming-to-psn | title = Shadow of the Colossus and ICO Coming to PSN | first = Colin | last = Moriarty | date = January 12, 2012 | access-date = September 4, 2012 | website = IGN | archive-date = January 11, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20130111113904/http://www.ign.com/articles/2012/01/12/shadow-of-the-colossus-and-ico-coming-to-psn | url-status = live }}</ref> Patch 1.01 for the digital high-definition ''Ico'' version added the [[Remote Play]] feature, allowing the game to be played on the [[PlayStation Vita]].<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.computerandvideogames.com/366164/ico-hd-playable-on-vita-with-remote-play-update/ | title = Ico HD playable on Vita with Remote Play update | first = Tamoir | last = Hussain | date = September 4, 2012 | access-date = September 4, 2012 | work = [[Computer and Video Games]] | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20141202055621/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/366164/ico-hd-playable-on-vita-with-remote-play-update/ | archive-date = December 2, 2014 | url-status = dead }}</ref>

== Notes ==
{{Notelist}}

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== Further reading ==

* {{Cite journal |last=Christensen |first=Ida Broni |date=May 2022 |title='Right-hand Pixels': Controlling Companions and Employing Haptic Storytelling Techniques in Single-player Quest-based Videogames |url=https://muse.jhu.edu/pub/30/article/855323#sub01 |department=Play Don’t Show—Video Game Companions |journal=[[Narrative (journal)|Narrative]] |volume=30 |issue=2 |pages=183–191 |doi=10.1353/nar.2022.0033}}
* {{Cite journal |last=McDonald |first=Peter Douglas |date=Spring 2012 |title=Playing Attention: The Hermeneutic Problems of Reading ''Ico'' Closely |url=https://journals.sfu.ca/loading/index.php/loading/article/view/79 |journal=Loading: The Journal of the Canadian Game Studies Association |volume=6 |issue=9 |pages=36–52}}

== External links ==
* [http://www.mobygames.com/game/ico Ico] at [[MobyGames]]
* [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRxsgVksCDE Early development video] assembled by GenDesign

{{Portal bar|Japan|Speculative fiction|Video games}}
{{Team Ico}}
{{Authority control}}

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