I don’t have the fondest memories of Ico. What I remember most is the numbing repetition of its combat. After watching some gameplay though, I appreciate the fluid animations and dreary atmosphere.
A scene that stands out in my memory is when you’re escaping the castle with your companion, Yorda. While crossing the bridge, it splits and retracts in both directions. The two main characters are separated, with Yorda’s side drawing back to the castle and yours headed towards the outside world.
The idea is to quickly jump back to the side with Yorda to trigger the next cutscene. For some reason, doing so didn’t cross my mind. I just stood there and stared as the bridge slowly drew away. At first I thought a cutscene would play, but nothing happens.
It takes some time, but eventually the bridge will fully retract and you just fall and die. A scene as tragic as the game’s box art.
(Header Image Source: Project Longplays)
