Yoko Taro, the visionary behind 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 quickly gained cult status for its minimalist aesthetic and evocative, wordless storytelling.

Taro highlighted the game's revolutionary core mechanic: guiding Yorda by holding her hand. He pointed out, "If ICO had tasked you with carrying a suitcase the size of a girl instead, it would have been incredibly frustrating." This simple act of leading another character was groundbreaking, challenging established norms of game interaction.

At the time, successful game design often prioritized engaging gameplay even with simplistic visuals—think basic cubes. ICO defied this, prioritizing emotional resonance and thematic depth over purely mechanical innovation. Taro believes ICO proved that art and narrative could be integral to the gaming experience, rather than mere window dressing.

Calling ICO "epoch-making," Taro praised its ability to convey profound meaning through subtle interactions and atmospheric design, fundamentally shifting the course of game development.

Beyond ICO, Taro cited Undertale (Toby Fox) and LIMBO (Playdead) as equally influential titles. These games, he argued, expanded the expressive potential of interactive media, demonstrating video games' capacity for deep emotional and intellectual impact.

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