Shadow of the Colossus

 PlayStation 2
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 1497 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,356 out of 1497
  2. Mixed: 66 out of 1497
  3. Negative: 75 out of 1497
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  1. Uauqdemais
    Dec 28, 2022
    10
    Indescritível, único, perfeito, maravilhoso, não existem adjetivos o sulficiente para descrever está obra de arte, simplesmente jogue.
  2. juniorsrs
    Apr 13, 2023
    10
    I can say without a doubt that this is the magnum opus of video games and the proof that video games can be art and have an artistic desire.
  3. Tecnonerdbrasil
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Se eu pudesse dar uma nota maior, com certeza eu daria. Esse jogo é simplesmente maravilhoso. Esse foi o primeiro jogo que zerei depois de muitos anos e com certeza quem começa a jogar não vai querer parar.
  4. Byrack
    Jun 30, 2023
    10
    Really fun game though it's short. It's a shame they cut a bunch of content because i'd love to play more. After playing the ps2 version I had to play the remake.
  5. VLG
    Aug 22, 2023
    10
    Monumental, legendary, introspective, awesome in every way, beautiful, reflexive, mysterious, addictive, awe-inspiring... One of my all-time favorites.
  6. ANDYO
    Nov 1, 2005
    9
    I was very impressed by the original concept of the game, no little guppy bad guys, no leveling up, no weapons other than what you got, I was very scared about this one, but I am very happy with this game, it was still overhyped but the monumentous battles are uncomparable to any game I've ever played before, I went through my collection of xbox and ps2 and could not find a game with I was very impressed by the original concept of the game, no little guppy bad guys, no leveling up, no weapons other than what you got, I was very scared about this one, but I am very happy with this game, it was still overhyped but the monumentous battles are uncomparable to any game I've ever played before, I went through my collection of xbox and ps2 and could not find a game with such presentation of battles and excellent music to go with it, but as cool as this is there are downfalls, the biggest being the camera, it is hard to control and frustrating to try to keep track of the giant and yourself when getting to close. The lack of story does not pull you in to the game, I mean here we are in a huge beautiful land to track across to slay the monster but why? for what? to bring someone back from the dead is a little overused I think, it is not stupid but a nick in the story to pull you in wouldn't hurt. Riding the horse altough very cool and very real the camera really screws the enjoyment of riding the horse up. Which is disappointing since a good riding of the horse has not been done since the simple horse riding of dare I say it Ocarina of time. Overall the game is great if you have the patience to deal with the camera, the weak story is ok only because the visuals and huge fights are spectacular.… Expand
  7. NinjaHatori
    Aug 23, 2009
    9
    I think this game is awesome n realy enjoyable...simplicity is the key...we dont need unimportant add-on...
    true! this game not for everyone,well its their lost..not everyone can enjoy art..the camera and framerate is frustating,especialy in the middle of action..but graphic,sound,gameplay,realistic movement of heroes n agro is more than enough to cover the flaws
    overall colossus is    I think this game is awesome n realy enjoyable...simplicity is the key...we dont need unimportant add-on...
    true! this game not for everyone,well its their lost..not everyone can enjoy art..the camera and framerate is frustating,especialy in the middle of action..but graphic,sound,gameplay,realistic movement of heroes n agro is more than enough to cover the flaws

    overall colossus is one true masterpiece...    … Expand
  8. kevin/
    Apr 19, 2006
    9
    hi pupil im play the game but i dont knowwhere i can find the monsters can anyone say where i can find them plz but the game has nice grafict but yea there is no story thats bad but i love the game but i cant find the monsters thats sucks plz can anyone help me send a e-mail to kevindekrom@hotmail.com
  9. ChrisH.
    Mar 18, 2008
    9
    It stands as the most beautiful game I've ever played, and also one of the most creative when it comes to storytelling. Utterly captivating and moving. Definitely woth playing, even if it isn't the longest game in the world.
  10. KyleW.
    Oct 21, 2005
    9
    The colossi are stupendous and ingenious. But the environment is their equal: beautiful, grand, detailed and awe-inspiring. I've conquered the first colossus in the demo so I've spent my first two hours with the game just exploring. Whether a beach, forest or desert, all areas are well realized and worth the effort of finding them. That said, more interactivity, or gameplay The colossi are stupendous and ingenious. But the environment is their equal: beautiful, grand, detailed and awe-inspiring. I've conquered the first colossus in the demo so I've spent my first two hours with the game just exploring. Whether a beach, forest or desert, all areas are well realized and worth the effort of finding them. That said, more interactivity, or gameplay opportunities, would be appreciated. For instance, a facade built into a mountain featured two holes leading to an enormous cavern. I should have been able to enter but couldn't and actually got stuck in one hole swimming like a fish out of water. Maybe later there's a colossi to kill inside and I'll be able to enter but right now it just seems glitchy and an arbitrary limit to exploration. BUT, a minor point that only slightly detracts from the score. This is a rewarding experience, a wondrous game that deserves at least a look.… Expand
  11. SteveM.
    Oct 25, 2005
    9
    Definitely up there for game of the year. I absolutely LOVE this game and is my fave PS2 along with, of course, ICO. Ueda and company know how to get things done and I'm eagerly awaiting their next profect. A perfect concept and gorgeous game with only minor technical flaws. DO NOT miss it!
  12. OmarI.
    Oct 9, 2006
    9
    The outstanding way that a simple game about destroying 16 monsters was transformed into and epic adventure of a young boy willing to do the impossible to be once again with a girl, even to travel unexplored and vast lands to challenge enormous creatures tall as skyscrappers, makes me think once again about what are the risks I could take if something happen to my girl. Besides the amount The outstanding way that a simple game about destroying 16 monsters was transformed into and epic adventure of a young boy willing to do the impossible to be once again with a girl, even to travel unexplored and vast lands to challenge enormous creatures tall as skyscrappers, makes me think once again about what are the risks I could take if something happen to my girl. Besides the amount of drama and the love, the vastness of the map, the graphics and the greatness of the bosses. There are details that makes this title can't reach the perfection: 1) There are no small creature to slain while reaching the colossus 2) No risk between the battles other than dying of starvation trying to find the colossus. I think Agro must not be so smart so I can fall of the cliffs when I get distracted. 3) The forbbiden land it too forbbiden, this way you'll never find anyone living. It could be cool if the game makers gives you intermediate task like helping a man to reach the entrance of the forbbiden land. 4) There is no day cycle, i think the gameplay could be beautiful in moonlight, I am amazed only by thinking of riding Agro (the horse) over the dunes at moonlight... This title is one of these you could play when you become older and nostalgic, just when you had forgotted the dificult time you had passed finding the bosses. Otherwise its flawless, but not perfect.… Expand
  13. Nathdman
    Feb 9, 2006
    9
    It's and awesome game, with its amazing graphics and game play. The only bad thing is that you have to go all over the world map, which can be extremely difficult.
  14. JonnyJ.
    Mar 13, 2006
    9
    simply beautiful! stunning visuals and graphics FX, fluid animation, dreamlike fascinating environments, solid gameplay, mechanics and nicely detailed. incredible "WOW" factor. a unique, unforgettable gaming experience.
  15. RandyM.
    Jul 4, 2006
    9
    Shadow of the Colossus is one of the most epic games ever made. This game has a light story, but it all makes sense at the end where the heart breaking cutscene plays. This game is also dark, you'll find no happiness or funny stuff here, but it fits the overall mood. Did I mention it was epic?
  16. EricB.
    Dec 6, 2008
    9
    This is a great game, no doubt about it. I'm not saying "Oh this is the best game ever there's nothing wrong with it its perfect", because there are some flaws. First of all, the controls are a bit unstable, especially on horseback. The camera also suffers, as it swings out constantly to a not so desirable spot. Along with that, the framerate and textures sometimes suffer, but This is a great game, no doubt about it. I'm not saying "Oh this is the best game ever there's nothing wrong with it its perfect", because there are some flaws. First of all, the controls are a bit unstable, especially on horseback. The camera also suffers, as it swings out constantly to a not so desirable spot. Along with that, the framerate and textures sometimes suffer, but not too much. The actual battles are the most epic I've ever done, forget what people are saying with the "you've killed one you've killed them all". Each one has its own strategy and environment to its or your advantage. If you are looking for a great game for PS2 that's gorgeous, has actual innovation (which is rare these days), and an amazing, if not subtle, story, pick up Shadow of the Colossus.… Expand
  17. SandeepK.
    Sep 26, 2008
    9
    One of the best games I have played . Graphics were excellent. Background music is just amazing and caught hold of my mind. And, to me, the best thing about this game was its simplicity in playing and yet not so easy availability of the weak points of the monsters. Not much of getting stuck for a huge amount of time. One more thing that was good was the hero of the game being more of an One of the best games I have played . Graphics were excellent. Background music is just amazing and caught hold of my mind. And, to me, the best thing about this game was its simplicity in playing and yet not so easy availability of the weak points of the monsters. Not much of getting stuck for a huge amount of time. One more thing that was good was the hero of the game being more of an adult and not the HERO that we usually expect heroes to be. In simple words no trash pure good quality gaming.… Expand
  18. CodyB.
    Mar 20, 2009
    9
    One of the best games the ps2 has to offer; The storyline is satisfying as well as the beautiful graphics (oh the graphics...), Agro the horse is THE number one sidekick in video gaming history, and all the 16 colossus battles are epic!!! The ONLY flaw with this game in which it got a 9 instead of a perfect score is because it's too short (4-5 hours). Over all it's HIGHLY One of the best games the ps2 has to offer; The storyline is satisfying as well as the beautiful graphics (oh the graphics...), Agro the horse is THE number one sidekick in video gaming history, and all the 16 colossus battles are epic!!! The ONLY flaw with this game in which it got a 9 instead of a perfect score is because it's too short (4-5 hours). Over all it's HIGHLY recommendable, especially for those who like or love epic adventures for young adults such as okami and final fantasy 8.… Expand
  19. SteveG
    Sep 27, 2009
    9
    16 great battles and the effort in finding them -- that is what this game is. It has beautiful music and a very zen vibe. A truly inspired game. However, the ending is more than a little annoying. I won't give it away, but there is really no foreshadowing of the ending and its kind of a long non-sequitor. That doesn't mean it is not a great game. It is. It is a great game with a 16 great battles and the effort in finding them -- that is what this game is. It has beautiful music and a very zen vibe. A truly inspired game. However, the ending is more than a little annoying. I won't give it away, but there is really no foreshadowing of the ending and its kind of a long non-sequitor. That doesn't mean it is not a great game. It is. It is a great game with a questionable ending. I played it on a PS3 and it looked and sounded marvelous.… Expand
  20. Snappinn'Pappin'
    Nov 11, 2005
    9
    A very good game, and a lot of fun. I don't know about best of 2005, I'd give that honor to Resident Evil 4, but, this game is totally unique and fun. While the textures up close don't look too hot due to the PS2's lame limitations (is only Sony didn't make it, it could've been an xbox title), it does look amazing from afar due to the beautiful landscapes, A very good game, and a lot of fun. I don't know about best of 2005, I'd give that honor to Resident Evil 4, but, this game is totally unique and fun. While the textures up close don't look too hot due to the PS2's lame limitations (is only Sony didn't make it, it could've been an xbox title), it does look amazing from afar due to the beautiful landscapes, art direction and shear size of everything. Really breathtaking landscapes and the battles with the colossi are a lot of fun. I love the "wtf?" factor when you fight one of these guys. I just wish there was more to finding them and a harder battle once you do find them. You shine your sword, follow the path on a poorly controlled horse, and then fight it. Repeat 16 times. I think the battles would've been more meaningful and the journey to find them more interesting if there were some sort of puzzle, button to hit or something else to it. I do love the fact that its just you, your horse, your sword and bow though. No +3 augment silver sword of divine justice + might boosting and regeneration junk to clog up your inventory that can somehow hold enough equipment to arm a small nation. With that aside, it is still an addictive and beautiful experience and well worth your time (maybe 8 hours?). And the music is incredible as well. The Zelda creators REALLY need to play this game. Imagine this game as a zelda title where you get this type of vast and incredibly detailed environment instead of Waterworld Pt. 2.… Expand
  21. AramisG.
    Nov 12, 2005
    9
    An excellent game with a few minor quirks. I found that it wasn't until I played it on hard mode that I got the experience the game originally promised. I found this game pretty superior to God of War, but perhaps a close contender for game of the year with RE4. Hopefully it runs like a charm when I get a PS3.
  22. R.S.
    Nov 22, 2005
    9
    i fould i really loved this game. the beutiful senery and textures and the little things like that hair on the horse mane was really well done. the horse riding seems smooth and.. relilistic even when a stuborn horse sometimes. the games puzzle collosi are each unique in there own way, each of them had a charactor to them. even with no words they protraited them selfs nice, i just wanted i fould i really loved this game. the beutiful senery and textures and the little things like that hair on the horse mane was really well done. the horse riding seems smooth and.. relilistic even when a stuborn horse sometimes. the games puzzle collosi are each unique in there own way, each of them had a charactor to them. even with no words they protraited them selfs nice, i just wanted to look at them before they started to walk on my face. the only think i found that i didnt really like to much was the camera. it seemed to just be in the way and someimes cumbersome to deal with when wanting to aim or just see where yours going. agian loved wouldnt buy it, but i say this is a must rent.… Expand
  23. Sean
    Oct 31, 2005
    9
    A great game. More and more I appreciate games that allow the player to take an active role in filling in the blanks as opposed to having one's role/motive/history completely spelled out for you. In taking on the role of this game's hero (who really is a hero for seemingly being so normal while standing against such overwhelming odds) I found myself sucked into a very living A great game. More and more I appreciate games that allow the player to take an active role in filling in the blanks as opposed to having one's role/motive/history completely spelled out for you. In taking on the role of this game's hero (who really is a hero for seemingly being so normal while standing against such overwhelming odds) I found myself sucked into a very living world that would exist and go on existing whether I saved the day or not. And, unlike most other games, nothing was ever allowed to clutter or take away from the pure experience of the game itself. If anyone ever wanted to know how it may have felt to be a legend-in-the-making from ancient mythology (ie. Hercules and his 12 labours) while not already knowing the tale or needing to adhere to a cumbersome and jarring system of hitpoints or character development (and, ultimately, a whole bunch of filler to give a sense of the "epic" in that the video game odyssey simply took a long time to complete), never before has a game captured the feeling and the atmosphere of a myth so well and with such vitality. Simply put, the minimal aspects work wonders if you let yourself play the role. And you need to think like a normal guy taking on giants to be successful at this game. This is not a game to be conquered more than an experience to lose one's self in. And, somewhat like in life itself, it's not for those who need to know the answer to every question "Why?" to be satisfied. Beautiful if not a little arduous at times, but aren't all legendary tasks every once-in-a-while? A game that rewards the mind... if you care to use it a bit more than you would for most games or movies. This game is epic in that it makes you feel so small. Absolutely unique.… Expand
  24. KarthXLR
    Oct 15, 2010
    9
    Simply a fantastic game. If you have a PS2, you have no excuse to not have, in the very least, play this game. Surprisingly intricate narrative coupled with epic battles and one of the saddest endings I've ever seen in a game. It's not perfect however. Controls can be a bit unresponsive during battles (especially during heavy lag sequences) and the camera can be difficult to maneuver.Simply a fantastic game. If you have a PS2, you have no excuse to not have, in the very least, play this game. Surprisingly intricate narrative coupled with epic battles and one of the saddest endings I've ever seen in a game. It's not perfect however. Controls can be a bit unresponsive during battles (especially during heavy lag sequences) and the camera can be difficult to maneuver. Aggro can be frustrating while searching for colossi. Otherwise, thoroughly enjoyable game, would play again.… Expand
  25. duckypwns
    Dec 9, 2011
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the most artistic games of all time. People giving it a low score seem to miss the point of the game; it wasn't supposed to be an ARPG with tons of enemies to fight everywhere and some kind of leveling system. The game never even claimed to be that so I don't know why people are rating it as such. But it's quite ironic because for what the gameplay DOES do it is a very solid gameplay system. Climbing up on the giant enemies and finding their weak points works very well and it's a lot of fun. It is also a very unique concept; something we truly haven't seen before this. But again, even though this is a new concept and done very well, it's not what the game is about. The reason there are no enemies when traveling from colossus to colossus is the game is giving you time to think. It gives you time to question what Wander, the silent protagonist is doing, and whether or not he is justified. To be more specific, he is trying to resurrect his love, and is told by a mysterious, and possibly malevolent force that if he rids the land of 16 giant creatures, she will be brought back to life. The game wasn't about keeping us superficially entertained by providing creatures to kill on the way from point A to point B, it was about trying to get us to THINK. So few modern games do that so I don't see why people criticize this game. Do we really just want a bunch of tired old FPS rehash?… Expand
  26. drlowdon
    Jun 12, 2013
    9
    A spiritual sequel to the unique Ico debate still rages as to which is the better game. All I will say is that both are unlike any other video game ever created.

    Trying to explain what makes Shadow of the Colossus such a fantastic experience is difficult as it really is a game that needs to be played to be fully appreciated. Much like its predecessor a minimalist approach has been    A spiritual sequel to the unique Ico debate still rages as to which is the better game. All I will say is that both are unlike any other video game ever created.

    Trying to explain what makes Shadow of the Colossus such a fantastic experience is difficult as it really is a game that needs to be played to be fully appreciated. Much like its predecessor a minimalist approach has been taken to proceedings creating an almost overwhelming atmosphere of calm isolation.

    The gameplay itself basically boils down to sixteen boss battles against the Colossi themselves with only a short introduction hinting at the reason for this undertaking. With no enemies in between these battles the game was always going to live or die by the quality of these encounters. Thankfully every one is truly awe inspiring and each provides a unique challenge that requires a bit of thought to complete. Aside from a sword and bow your only companion of this quest is your horse Agro and he often plays a vital role throughout the game. Realistically animated and intelligent enough to traverse the landscape by himself you really come to care for him as the game reaches its conclusion.

    Shadow of the Colossus is a true masterpiece and as close as gaming can come to an art form. You can't call yourself a true video game fan until you've played it.    … Expand
  27. ILoveLamp
    May 17, 2011
    9
    Ok, there are a lot of people who are really upset with this game and there are a lot of people who really, really enjoyed it. For those of you who are thinking of whether or not you are going to buy it, I'm going to try and sum up some of the major aspects that make this game great, but also where this game falls short. First of all the good: 1.) When this game came out in 2005, theOk, there are a lot of people who are really upset with this game and there are a lot of people who really, really enjoyed it. For those of you who are thinking of whether or not you are going to buy it, I'm going to try and sum up some of the major aspects that make this game great, but also where this game falls short. First of all the good: 1.) When this game came out in 2005, the graphics were top of the line. When it comes to the huge open environment with no loading times running from place to place, this game was simply amazing for 2005. No one can argue against this. 2.) The game is simple. You've got your sword, and a bow. No clamoring through item screens, no messy menu systems, just a quick button to switch between them. Some people may not like this, but we'll get to that. 3.) The boss fights are superb. Shadow of the Colossus is basically like 16 Zelda-esque boss fights all concentrated into one game. They get more and more creative as you move through the game, and are never disappointing. You can really get the chills when a 100 meter tall giant is swinging a club at you the size of the empire state building. ...Now, for the bad... 1.) The camera and horse riding is a little messy. Sometimes the horse wont quite do what you want. Say you order him to slow down because you coming up to the grand canyon. He might just keep running like he doesn't have a care in the world. Don't worry, he will stop. I have never fallen off a cliff on a horse. Also, the targeting system used when fighting the colossi can be a little awkward. if you want to look at the colossus with the targeting system, the camera zooms up real close on our hero, right on his hip, and looks at the monster's mid section. if your running away from the colossus, this means that you can't quite see where you are running to. This VERY rarely matters, because you usually have a lot of space to use, but it can be annoying. Also, when you aren't targeting the camera can be a little annoying swaying around looking at what you might not want to look at. Don't let minor control issues ruin the game for you. When you target the colossi it actually looks pretty cinematic. Also, when you run it looks like your legs are made out of Stretch Armstrong's. Should you be mad about it? No, probably not. 2.) It's a simple game. This can be a good thing or a bad thing. It's really about personal preference. Storyline? Basically, there isn't one. Tons of weapons and character customization? You get two weapons. But hey, that's part of what makes this game so great. It lets your imagination run the story. You don't really know what happened to the pretty girl, or why you have a bad ass sword, or why killing a bunch of giants will bring her back, or why they all seem to be filled with pressurized black ink. This game is very enigmatic that way. If you don't like that type of thing, and are looking for a story, try playing final fantasy or metal gear or something. Otherwise, I give this game a 9/10. Its a great game. It's not perfect, but that's what the 10/10 space is for. If you are in the mood for some visually pleasing, brain busting boss fights, buy this game. If not, don't buy this game.
    -ILL    … Expand
  28. BasilZero
    Jul 26, 2013
    9
    Shadow of the Colossus is one of the best games in the 6th generation. Offering a new unique style to both gameplay and gives a new direction where art is the new form of storytelling to this amazing epic. With both music and the amazing beauty of the art mixed together well the player will understand clearly how in depth they can be with the protagonist of the game, of his journey andShadow of the Colossus is one of the best games in the 6th generation. Offering a new unique style to both gameplay and gives a new direction where art is the new form of storytelling to this amazing epic. With both music and the amazing beauty of the art mixed together well the player will understand clearly how in depth they can be with the protagonist of the game, of his journey and his goal to save his maiden. The game also ends with a twist and offers replay value you wouldnt normally see in a game like this in the form of a new game+ and adds a new time challenge which will reward you for completing the tough challenges. This game is an amazing legendary classic in which all fans of adventure games will surely enjoy!… Expand
  29. Welterweight426
    Jul 2, 2012
    9
    This game is good. However, it is REALLY overrated. The gameplay is fun but awkward and clunky. The soundtrack is glorious and the game looks great. I enjoyed this game and felt both a strong sense of attachment and a strong feeling of frustration. Those Colossi are tough.
  30. PhiloDandy
    Aug 21, 2012
    9
    Shadow of Colossus is such a beautiful piece of videogameart! you have never seen or experienced something like this! First i thought this game was not finished by the programmers, cause even when the landscape is beautiful, its somewhat empty and lacks some life, but the longer i played, i realized that those "quiet" parts between this colossal boss-fights are essential for the feeling,Shadow of Colossus is such a beautiful piece of videogameart! you have never seen or experienced something like this! First i thought this game was not finished by the programmers, cause even when the landscape is beautiful, its somewhat empty and lacks some life, but the longer i played, i realized that those "quiet" parts between this colossal boss-fights are essential for the feeling, for whats going on inside the player. the nature is so beautiful, this "quiet" parts ARE atmospheric and essential also for the story, which is also unique, and this game really dont need more than those bossfights and this moments were the player is alone with this beautiful presented nature. though its unconventionel and strange that they have invested so much time in buildung up a country full of nature, but with no gameplay. it was brave to this, but the result concede the programmers that they were right. amazing game!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best PS2 Game of 2005
4
#4 Most Discussed PS2 Game of 2005
3
#3 Most Shared PS2 Game of 2005

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 77 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 76 out of 77
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 77
  3. Negative: 0 out of 77
  1. Official U.S. Playstation Magazine
    90
    If you can appreciate artistry in games, if you hanker for an experience that transcends genre, if you want to see what happens when a creative design team is allowed to ignore sales numbers and flavor-of-the-month trends, by all means bring yourself into Shadow's world. [Oct 2005, p.98]
  2. Game Informer
    88
    A truly unique experience that inspires emotions in a way few games can. It has its share of problems, but I love it just the same. [Oct 2005, p.130]
  3. Electronic Gaming Monthly
    88
    It's unlike anything else you've ever played, and so you may love it or you may hate it. Count me firmly in the "love" boat. [Nov 2005, p.142]
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