Yoko Taro Praises ICO as a Masterpiece That Revolutionized Video Games

Yoko Taro, the visionary behind 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 achieved cult status, celebrated for its minimalist aesthetic and uniquely wordless storytelling.

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

At the time, successful game design often prioritized engaging gameplay even with simplistic visuals—think blocky characters and environments. ICO defied this, prioritizing emotional resonance and thematic depth over pure mechanical innovation. Taro believes ICO proved that art and narrative could transcend their supporting roles, becoming integral to the overall experience.

Calling ICO "epoch-making," Taro credits it with significantly altering the course of game development. He praised its ability to convey profound meaning through subtle interactions and atmospheric world-building.

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

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