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  5. Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus

Overall Rating: 4.31 • 599 reviews

Journey into a breathtaking world where towering giants roam and each epic battle is a puzzle waiting to be solved. Shadow of the Colossus invites you to explore stunning landscapes and face awe-inspiring foes, all while unraveling a hauntingly beautiful story of love and sacrifice. Perfect for gamers seeking a captivating, immersive experience without the need for exhaustive playtime, this masterpiece offers a uniquely enchanting adventure that lingers in your thoughts long after you’ve put down the controller. Dive in, and discover why this reimagined classic continues to captivate new generations of players.

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Details

Some of the particulars and information about Shadow of the Colossus.
Developer: SCE Japan Studio
Release Date: February 6, 2018
How Long to Beat: 8 hrs

Ratings

Some of the ratings and scores for Shadow of the Colossus.
91 Metacritic
9.7 IGN
-- Our Score

Genres

Action
Adventure
Open World

Systems

Here's where you can find Shadow of the Colossus and play.

ESRB: Teen

Content Rating
Blood
Violence
Overview
Why Play?
How Much Time?
Overview

This re-release of the iconic PlayStation adventure offers a mesmerizing experience, weaving an enchanting narrative without the need for lengthy dialogue or complex mechanics.

Why Play?

This isn't just a game; it's an immersive journey that beckons you to explore its vast, enigmatic landscapes and challenge its awe-inspiring colossi.

How Much Time?

Estimating how much time you'll need to fully experience Shadow of the Colossus depends largely on your gaming preferences.

An Epic Tale of Giants

Shadow of the Colossus invites players into a vast, mysterious world where ancient landscapes and towering colossi await. The storyline is simple yet powerful – you take on the role of Wander, a lone traveler determined to resurrect a lost love. Each colossus you encounter is a breathtaking puzzle, blending elements reminiscent of classic adventures you’ve admired. Like a moving work of art, the game avoids overwhelming the player with complexity, opting instead for an evocative and atmospheric experience. If you loved the emotional weight of games like Shadow of the Colossus (2018), you’ll appreciate the care and attention evident in every detail.

Immersive, Breathtaking Landscapes

One of the most striking aspects of Shadow of the Colossus is its breathtaking environments. The game’s landscapes are both vast and haunting, creating a sense of solitude that is as poignant as it is beautiful. Each journey across hillsides, deserts, and ancient ruins feels like a meditation, drawing the player ever deeper into this mythical world. The game does not rush you, but rather invites you to explore and absorb its beauty at your own pace. Much like reimagining a classic painting, every colossus encounter turns into a unique visual and strategic masterpiece.

Construction of Enigmatic Creatures

The colossi themselves are undeniably the heart of Shadow of the Colossus, each representing a unique challenge that blends combat and puzzle-solving. These gigantic beings are unlike any adversaries you have faced in previous adventures, and each victory feels rewarding. The creatures’ designs are both majestic and imposing, echoing the grandeur and originality often found in epic sagas. As players devise strategies to bring down these giants, they are reminded of how storytelling and gameplay can intertwine to create profound experiences. If strategic battles with beautiful, monumental creatures intrigue you, this game delivers in spades.

A Timeless Masterpiece with Enhanced Graphics

Shadow of the Colossus stands out as a remaster that truly honors its source material while embracing the possibilities of modern gaming technology. The updated visuals breathe new life into the enigmatic world, presenting an experience that is both nostalgic for long-time fans and inviting for newcomers. The meticulously crafted environments and the improved textures make every moment feel like a painting in motion. For those who enjoy games with high visual fidelity, the graphical enhancements in this version offer a more immersive journey that elevates the emotional impact of the narrative.

Engaging Yet Accessible Gameplay

What makes Shadow of the Colossus appealing to a wide audience is its balance of challenge and accessibility. The game offers straightforward mechanics that anyone can pick up, but mastering them to tackle each colossus provides a satisfying and rewarding endeavor. The minimalist design eliminates distractions, allowing players to focus on enjoying the core adventure without a steep learning curve. This approach not only makes the game approachable for those with limited time but also ensures that each play session feels fulfilling as players progress through the mysterious, sorrowful world.

The Emotional Resonance of a Silent Story

Despite its silent protagonists and limited dialogue, Shadow of the Colossus offers a narrative that touches deeply on themes of love, loss, and sacrifice. The lack of spoken words invites players to engage their imagination, weaving their interpretations into the game’s rich tapestry. Wander’s quest to revive a lost loved one resonates with players through hauntingly beautiful visuals and a stirring musical score. This emotional depth, combined with a compelling storyline, creates an experience that lingers long after the final colossus has fallen, making it a game that truly speaks to the power of storytelling in interactive media.

Core Gameplay Duration

For those diving into Shadow of the Colossus, the main storyline can typically be completed in around 6 to 10 hours. This time frame captures the essential experience of journeying through the mystical world, facing each of the 16 colossi in a quest to revive a loved one. The length is optimal for players who appreciate concise adventures that offer substantial story and gameplay without an overwhelming time commitment. This allows players to enjoy a rich narrative and immersive world without needing to invest dozens of hours, making it a fitting option for those balancing a busier lifestyle.

Exploration and World Engagement

Beyond the primary objectives, players may choose to deeply explore the lush environments and soak in the atmospheric settings, potentially extending their playtime. Curiosity might lead you to discover hidden details, scenic vistas, or engage in more exploratory rides atop Wander’s trusty horse, Agro. This additional playtime could add a couple of hours, depending on how much you wish to take in the serene landscapes and secrets scattered throughout the land. For those who find joy in environmental storytelling and exploration, Shadow of the Colossus offers a chance to pause and enjoy its carefully crafted world without pressure.

Replayability and Time Trials

If you wish to further test your skills and refine your strategies, Shadow of the Colossus includes time attack modes that encourage replayability. By challenging each colossus again under time constraints, players can uncover new strategies and hone their skills. Engaging in these modes can extend the game by several more hours, providing a new layer of challenge and enjoyment. Whether you’re aiming to improve your time or simply wish to relive the thrill of past encounters, this feature adds substantial value for players eager to delve deeper into the mechanics and artistry of the game.

Trailer

A Quick Look at Shadow of the Colossus

Curious what Shadow of the Colossus is all about? The trailer gives you a great first look at the world, the vibe, and the kind of story you're stepping into.

Shadow of the Colossus Trailer
Videos

Related videos for Shadow of the Colossus

These videos give some tips and pointers on getting started with Shadow of the Colossus

Shadow of the Colossus - Before You Buy

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Shadow of the Colossus PS4 Review

IGN

Shadow of The Colossus Remake: 7 Things You NEED TO KNOW

gameranx

Shadow of the Colossus Review

ACG
Screenshots

Screenshots of Shadow of the Colossus

Want to see what Shadow of the Colossus actually looks like in-game? These screenshots will hopefully give you a feel for what the world of Shadow of the Colossus is like.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Shadow of the Colossus?

What are the primary gameplay mechanics in Shadow of the Colossus, and how do the controls work?

In Shadow of the Colossus, players take on the role of Wander, tasked with defeating sixteen colossal beings. The core mechanics involve exploration and puzzle-solving to locate and climb these giants, utilizing a sword and bow for combat. The controls are intuitive, with options to adjust configurations, allowing players to focus on the strategic aspects of taking down each Colossus.

What are the technical requirements and performance aspects of Shadow of the Colossus on the PlayStation 4?

Shadow of the Colossus is optimized for the PlayStation 4 and can be played on both the standard console and the PS4 Pro. Players with a PS4 Pro can enjoy enhanced graphics with improved textures and lighting effects. The game runs smoothly at a locked 30fps in Cinematic Mode, while Performance Mode on the PS4 Pro targets 60fps, offering a more fluid gameplay experience.

How long is the story in Shadow of the Colossus, and does it offer replay value?

The main story of Shadow of the Colossus typically takes 6 to 8 hours to complete, depending on the player’s familiarity with the game’s puzzles and Colossi strategies. The game offers replay value through Time Attack mode, where players can earn rewards by defeating Colossi within set time limits, as well as a New Game+ mode to revisit the adventure with unlocked items and increased challenge.

Does Shadow of the Colossus feature any multiplayer or online components?

Shadow of the Colossus is primarily a single-player experience and does not feature any multiplayer or online components. The game focuses on the solo journey of Wander and his quest, emphasizing the emotional and immersive aspects of exploration and combat against the Colossi. This design choice enhances the game’s narrative and atmosphere.

On which platforms is Shadow of the Colossus available, and are there any significant differences between them?

Shadow of the Colossus is exclusively available on the PlayStation 4. It is a remake of the original PlayStation 2 title and has been rebuilt from the ground up to leverage the capabilities of modern hardware. There are no versions for other platforms, and there is no additional downloadable content (DLC), ensuring that everyone with a PS4 experiences the game as intended.

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