Fumito Ueda

Shadow of the Colossus is a videogame for people who love videogames. To the casual player it may seem like nothing more than just another exceptionally beautiful 3rd person climbing and stabbing simulator, but to gamers who have been playing for their entire lives it's something grander and more significant. Shadow asks big questions about game design, and suggests changes to the way we approach videogames.

According to ESRB, this game contains: Blood, Fantasy Violence

Videogames that aim to be more than just videogames are few and far between. The vast majority of titles out there aim to sell a million copies, and if they happen to have a message or morals thrown in, well that's just accidental icing on the cake.

Game Description: Shadow of the Colossus is a majestic journey through ancient lands to seek out and destroy gigantic mythical beasts. With your trusty horse at your side, explore the spacious lands and unearth each Colossi. Armed with your wits, a sword, and a bow, use cunning and strategy to topple each behemoth. From the original developers of the critically acclaimed ICO, comes a masterpiece of an adventure.

There are games, and there is art. Are the two fated to be mutually exclusive? Personally, I'd say the answer is no.

According to ESRB, this game contains: Animated Violence

Game Description: Ico incorporates elements from puzzle, adventure, strategy, fighting, and role-playing-game genres. It's the tale of a courageous young boy on a heroic journey through an unknown castle to save a princess and discover his own mysterious fate. Faced with numerous puzzles, ranging from simple mazes to complex brainteasers, Ico invites gamers into a deep, mysterious story line with beautiful, dreamlike graphics.

I completely agree with Brad's assessment of ICO as art—the game really is that beautiful. You'll have countless moments where you just have to stop and soak all of the scenery in. This sleeper hit of the year is simply too good to be missed.