Let’s dive into the spellbinding allure of the remastered gem Shadow of the Colossus HD. This monumental game, originally released on PlayStation 2 in 2005, has undergone a high-definition transformation by the talented hands of Bluepoint Games studio. Now, it is available for fans old and new as an independent title and is also incorporated within the Team ICO Collection. Strap on your adventure boots as we journey into this remarkable game, which flawlessly marries the old, the new, and the real with the fantastical.
RESURRECTING THE BELOVED
At the heart of Shadow of the Colossus lies a moving narrative that spins around the character of Wander. This young, courageous man is driven by his mission to revive Mono, a girl sacrificed in a cryptic ritual. To achieve this seemingly impossible task, Wander dares to cross into the Forbidden Lands, estranged from the rest of the world, and strikes a pact with the ominous entity Dormin. Wander’s mission? To defeat the colossal creatures, the sixteen Colossuses, with nothing but a sword, a bow, and his horse, Argo.
A WORLD TO EXPLORE
The immersive world of Shadow of the Colossus HD unfolds from a third-person perspective. It invites players to traverse a sprawling open world with desert scapes, ruined towers, verdant forests, and captivating valleys. Each exploration leads to a face-off against one of the sixteen colossal beings. Following each victorious battle, Wander awakens in a temple, ready to embark on his next mission of annihilating another opponent.
FIGHT THE COLOSSAL
Combat is an essential game aspect across diverse landscapes, including land, water, and sky. Each Colossus is unique, varying in size, appearance, characteristics, and vulnerabilities. While some peacefully stroll the earth or glide through the air, others are more chaotic and aggressive, especially when Wander climbs their hairy bodies while monitoring his endurance indicator to prevent a disastrous fall.
THE ROLES OF AGRO
One of the game’s charms is Agro, Wander’s horse, and ally, which provides battle support. Agro can divert the Colossus’ attention, allowing Wander to reach otherwise inaccessible spots. The developers at Bluepoint Games have gone the extra mile to ensure Agro behaves like a real horse, creating an animal companion who sometimes refuses to obey and who instinctively flees in the face of imminent danger.
ADDITIONAL GAME MODES
For those seeking further challenges, two additional modes unlock once the main storyline is completed: a Hard difficulty level and a Time Attack mode, offering many new opportunities for players to test their skill and strategy.
UPGRADED VISUALS
One of the crowning achievements of the Shadow of the Colossus HD remaster is the significant visual upgrade. The game is now presented in an impressive 1080p resolution and employs stereoscopic 3D technology for added immersion, albeit requiring a particular TV. To top it all off, this PS3 remaster includes a trophy system, adding another layer of accomplishment for players to strive for.
In conclusion, Shadow of the Colossus HD is not merely a remastered version of a beloved classic. It’s a journey of exploration, combat, and emotional investment, all set within a breathtaking world that retains the original game’s essence while significantly enhancing its presentation.
