Not many games in recent times have set themselves apart from the usual predictable bunch. However, Ico is something very different. From the moment you see the artwork design and watch the introduction animation, you can tell this is something very special.

Ico is an amazing 3D adventure game with visually stunning graphics and scenery. It's a totally unique experience that will immerse you completely into its fantasy world. Showing what the PS2 can do, this game sets new standards for realistic 3D worlds.

A young boy named Ico is cast out by his family and villagers on his twelve birthday, for having horns on his head. He is believed to be a demon child and is to be forever imprisoned, locked away deep inside an immense fortress. His only chance is for escape, but as you soon discover you are not alone in this hellish place. Yorda, a young girl, is also imprisoned here and your quest for freedom suddenly takes on a new meaning. Now you must not only save yourself but also help and protect the innocent Yorda. You soon discover, however, that the fortress is haunted by strange demons that try to capture Yorda and take her away from you. You must protect her at all costs and save her from the demons because if they capture her then the your chances of escape will be lost.

The gameplay is simple; escape the prison by solving the puzzles and escorting Yorda with you to freedom. Along the way you can pick up various weapons to use when fighting the demons. One of the game's more charming elements is the interaction between Yorda and Ico. To guide her you can call for her and if she is close enough you can hold her hand and guide her through the fortress. You can also help her climb up difficult areas. I've never seen anything quite like this before. It really is amazing to behold and the graphics are stunning. The real world environment has a certain fantasy look to it, which adds a lot to the whole game experience. This world is believable, even to the point that almost falling off the edge of a building will get your heart racing. Some of the more scary moments would not be easy for anyone scared of heights!

The game is not cluttered with in-screen icons, scores or power bars either, there's nothing to distract you and although some may find this strange, it allows you to be drawn further into this fantasy world. The puzzles along the way take the usual form of pushing switches, moving blocks, climbing ladders, ropes, chains, walls and finding your path through the fortress.

Added to this are the constant demon attacks, which get steadily more difficult the further you get through the game. Attacking the demons is a simple case of swinging your weapon at them there are no advanced moves or multiple button pushes, just simple attacking. For some this may be off-putting as it is relatively simple, but that doesn't mean it's easy. After a while the attacks can be very frustrating, as the demons abduct Yorda you must run and pull her back, away from the darkness. Some of the puzzles force you to leave Yorda alone and all the time you are away from her, you can't help but fear for her safety.

Visually, this game is stunning. It is one of the most atmospheric and engaging games I have ever played and the sounds fit the action perfectly with no annoying music to upset. A very addictive mix of game elements make Ico one game you won't want to put down and it will certainly give you a uniquely enjoyable experience.

Reviewed by AceGamez (All Rights Reserved).