Yoko Taro Praises ICO as a Masterpiece That Revolutionized Video Games

Yoko Taro, 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 achieved cult status due to its minimalist aesthetic and evocative, wordless narrative.

Taro highlighted the game's innovative core mechanic—guiding Yorda by holding her hand—as a revolutionary departure from established gameplay norms. He noted, "Had ICO required you to carry a suitcase the size of a girl, it would have been incredibly frustrating." This emphasis on leading another character, he argued, was groundbreaking, challenging conventional notions of player interaction.

At the time, successful game design often prioritized engaging gameplay even with simplified, cube-like visuals. ICO, however, prioritized emotional impact and thematic depth over purely mechanical innovation. Taro believes ICO demonstrated that art and narrative could be integral to gameplay, rather than mere embellishments.

Calling ICO "epoch-making," Taro lauded its influence on game development, showcasing the power of subtle interactions and atmospheric design to convey profound meaning.

Beyond ICO, Taro cited Undertale (Toby Fox) and LIMBO (Playdead) as similarly influential titles. These games, he contends, expanded the expressive capabilities of interactive media, proving video games' capacity for delivering deeply emotional and intellectually stimulating experiences.

Taro's appreciation for these games offers valuable insight into the creative sources fueling his own work, and further underscores the continuous evolution of video games as a powerful and versatile art form.