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 swiftly gained 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 guiding another character, he argued, was groundbreaking, challenging conventional game interaction models.

At the time, successful game design often prioritized engaging gameplay even with simplistic, cube-like visuals. ICO, however, prioritized emotional impact and thematic depth over purely mechanical innovation. Taro believes the game demonstrated that art and narrative could transcend their supporting roles, becoming integral to the overall experience.

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

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, showcasing video games' potential for delivering emotionally and intellectually resonant experiences.

Taro's appreciation for these games offers valuable insight into the creative wellspring of his own work and reinforces the ongoing evolution of video games as a powerful and versatile art form.