Journey

 PlayStation 3
User Score
8.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1591 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,380 out of 1591
  2. Mixed: 105 out of 1591
  3. Negative: 106 out of 1591

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  1. shinkuuryu
    Jul 7, 2014
    9
    Very good game.

    The good - really good game. It's one of those things that you have to experience for yourself, words don't even do it justice. Think of it as a really good art film - which means no overt violence or sexualized characters. Great for gamers with kids in the household too. The bad - the game is very short - 3 hours-ish short. Even when you shoot for all the trophies    Very good game.

    The good - really good game. It's one of those things that you have to experience for yourself, words don't even do it justice. Think of it as a really good art film - which means no overt violence or sexualized characters. Great for gamers with kids in the household too.

    The bad - the game is very short - 3 hours-ish short. Even when you shoot for all the trophies (which I don't usually go for), it's still over too soon.    … Expand
  2. Gunner15
    Jul 16, 2014
    9
    Let me start off by saying this game is my game of the year for 2012. But it's not for everyone.

    Journey is a unique, beautiful and wondrous tale through its amazing and peaceful score. You play as robed being in the middle of the desert and your objective is clear. Reach the top of a mountain in the very distant background. There is absolutely no voice acting or violence in the game.    Let me start off by saying this game is my game of the year for 2012. But it's not for everyone.

    Journey is a unique, beautiful and wondrous tale through its amazing and peaceful score. You play as robed being in the middle of the desert and your objective is clear. Reach the top of a mountain in the very distant background. There is absolutely no voice acting or violence in the game. But, that doesn't take the charm and beauty away from this game.

    As you slide down the gorgeous sand dunes listening to the amazing score, others players will simultaneously join you on your adventure. The only way you can communicate with the other player is pressing circle which makes a very unique and peasant sound.

    The only negative thing I can say about this game is that it's only an hour and half, two hours max.

    Journey is a unique, beautiful and innovative. This game shows that video games don't need violence or voice acting to be a fantastic game. This game is one of the best I've ever played.    … Expand
  3. Zuqenshi
    Oct 13, 2014
    9
    "Journey" was full of surprises for me. Somehow I thought the whole game would take place in the desert, and because I don't like deserts, I was somewhat hesitant at first. But I was proven wrong by "thatgamecompany" in terms of limited environment and climate.

    It has beautiful graphics. Especially the lighting is outstanding. The environment responds to your movements and actions, and    "Journey" was full of surprises for me. Somehow I thought the whole game would take place in the desert, and because I don't like deserts, I was somewhat hesitant at first. But I was proven wrong by "thatgamecompany" in terms of limited environment and climate.

    It has beautiful graphics. Especially the lighting is outstanding. The environment responds to your movements and actions, and the interaction with the NPC is really fluid. The soundtracks are fitting, though some felt rather dull. The partner based multiplayer is well implemented, and it feels really great to go through the whole journey with the same partner. At times you teach each other, show hidden paths to symbols and glyphs.

    What really makes "Journey" such a jaw-dropping experience must be the pacing. In my opinion, the progression of the events makes the game truly similar to "real life". The game doesn't hold your hand, even though there's no complex puzzles whatsoever, you have to figure out what you have to do on your on if a partner does not guide you, which makes it a joy to explore and observe.

    Recommended for: People looking for a relaxing, enlightening and peaceful experience.    … Expand
  4. tsakiym
    May 12, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. fantastic game. I do not have to say anything more. But i need to write one hundred and fifty characters. i think my score can describe it............… Expand
  5. edwartexe
    Mar 12, 2015
    9
    the game is the definition of the monomyth, the story is told without dialogue yet it gives out a clear understanding of the past culture of the desert. the graphics are beautifull ! the gameplay is simple and its main purpose is to travel and explore the world of the desert ruins while going all the way to the mountain. the soundtrack itslef is pretty amazing. its a game to relax and playthe game is the definition of the monomyth, the story is told without dialogue yet it gives out a clear understanding of the past culture of the desert. the graphics are beautifull ! the gameplay is simple and its main purpose is to travel and explore the world of the desert ruins while going all the way to the mountain. the soundtrack itslef is pretty amazing. its a game to relax and play with wonder and awe.… Expand
  6. RossBoss
    Jun 23, 2016
    9
    A cinematic and awesome experience, Journey is simple yet spectacular. Its visual scenes combined with its soundtrack make for museum-like adventure that demands a virtual reality release. What makes Journey so unique beyond its artistic form is the social experiment you're placed in with each game. Walking alongside a fellow voyager, especially through an entire playthrough, creates anA cinematic and awesome experience, Journey is simple yet spectacular. Its visual scenes combined with its soundtrack make for museum-like adventure that demands a virtual reality release. What makes Journey so unique beyond its artistic form is the social experiment you're placed in with each game. Walking alongside a fellow voyager, especially through an entire playthrough, creates an experience like no other you might have with a stranger. If this game was reduced to its bare basics to walk to the light and the game was over, it would be above average; however, add the element of online multiplayer along with the intense dramatics at varying points throughout the game and you have a masterpiece, one that elicits deep, real emotions and a search for the metaphorical meaning of what you have experienced in these two hours.… Expand
  7. Jyadaus
    Jan 24, 2020
    9
    Journey, is different. It is really impossible to describe this game. Because even I feel different every time I play. Even the multiplayer option makes this game great. It is a wonderful feeling to establish sincerity with people you do not know or talk and try to progress with them in this game. Does anyone like this game?I do not think so. But I recommend this game to everyone.
  8. GameBroZ
    Jun 29, 2021
    9
    Walking simulator but its damn good edition.
    That's all i will say, every gamer needs to try this masterpiece!
  9. clem666
    Apr 1, 2021
    9
    Only few games can claim to be as contemplative and surprisingly deep. 'Journey' offers us a way to navigate through the story of a lost civilization. You will have to give sense to it by the mean of drawings and engravings. You embody a small and attractive character who has to face numerous challenges to reunite some mysterious pieces of puzzles. You will have to solve riddles in orderOnly few games can claim to be as contemplative and surprisingly deep. 'Journey' offers us a way to navigate through the story of a lost civilization. You will have to give sense to it by the mean of drawings and engravings. You embody a small and attractive character who has to face numerous challenges to reunite some mysterious pieces of puzzles. You will have to solve riddles in order to deal with strange mythologies. The game is graphically beautiful, with some marvelous lights effects and effects on the sand you walk on. You will cross the path of intriguing monstruous creatures that will make you feel tiny and helpless.

    The fact that you can play with online strangers is great. Together you can make your own journey and realize that you are not the only one playing this masterpiece. The soundtrack is amazing: often calm and chill but also grandiose. Let's embark for an epic, a moving and questionning journey.    … Expand
  10. INU4SH4
    Jun 25, 2020
    9
    Journey is a straight-forward game. The title tells it all. You are a being that journeys through a harsh desert. Some people could resume the gameplay to simply "moving forward" and label this as a walking simulator and on the surface, and it might be that, but it's also so much more.

    This is a "show, not tell" story at its best. Journey doesn't grab the player's hand and explain all    Journey is a straight-forward game. The title tells it all. You are a being that journeys through a harsh desert. Some people could resume the gameplay to simply "moving forward" and label this as a walking simulator and on the surface, and it might be that, but it's also so much more.

    This is a "show, not tell" story at its best. Journey doesn't grab the player's hand and explain all the facts, Journey tells you a story with no words through symbolism and visual cues. If you're looking for a deep and magic adventure, you came to the right place. No other game will ever replicate the feeling of finishing Journey in a single sitting with a random player that doesn't even speak your language.

    The graphics haven't aged a day as well. Still looks as beautiful as it ever looked on release.    … Expand
  11. WS3000
    Jul 18, 2020
    9
    Lindíssimo o jogo, trilha sonora, ambientação, jornada em co-op divertidíssima
  12. chrisdan23
    Jun 14, 2022
    9
    Journey als Spiel, oder besser als Erfahrung, ist ein Titel, den man eigentlich nicht in einem Wertesystem mit anderen Spielen vergleichen kann. Mit vielleicht gut zwei Stunden Spielzeit ist der Titel viel zu kurz, in seinem Impact jedoch kaum zu überschätzen. Der Ausnahmetitel von thatgamecompany, der im Dreiergespann der sogenannten "Flow Trilogie" exklusiv mit Sony für die PlaystationJourney als Spiel, oder besser als Erfahrung, ist ein Titel, den man eigentlich nicht in einem Wertesystem mit anderen Spielen vergleichen kann. Mit vielleicht gut zwei Stunden Spielzeit ist der Titel viel zu kurz, in seinem Impact jedoch kaum zu überschätzen. Der Ausnahmetitel von thatgamecompany, der im Dreiergespann der sogenannten "Flow Trilogie" exklusiv mit Sony für die Playstation entstanden ist, verwehrt sich nämlich einem Genre und auch dem Vergleich mit anderen Titeln. Am ehesten beschreiben kann man den Titel vielleicht als Koop 3D Puzzle Plattformer - wird dem Spiel so aber kaum gerecht. Letztlich sind es drei Wesensmerkmale, die den Titel so besonders machen. Da ist zum einem eben dieser "Flow" den das Spielgefühl ausmacht. Irgendwo zwischen Laufen und Fliegen angelegt, schweben wir durch die Areale der wundersamen Welt von Journey. Was uns zum fantastischen Design und Stil der offenen Areale führt. Wenige Spiele sind stilistisch so catchy und beeindruckend inszeniert wie thatgamecompanys letzter Playstation Exklusivtitel. Das aber vermutlich wichtigste Merkmal des Spiels ist dessen innovativer Koop Ansatz. Man erlebt sein kleines, intensives Journey Abenteuer nämlich nie allein, sondern mir einem Online Partner, was der eigentliche Kunstgriff des Titels ist. Die Idee, die intensiven Momente, die Journey aufbaut mit jemand unbekanntes zu teilen, mit dem man auch nur rudimentär im Spiel kommunizieren kann, das macht die ganz besondere Erfahrung des Spiels wesentlich aus. Journey ist sicherlich eines der innovativsten Konzepte der Videospielegeschichte und sicherlich eine der tiefsten Erfahrungen, die man als Spieler machen kann. Auch wenn das Spiel mit gerade einmal gut zwei Stunden sehr kurz ist macht es das was es will in Perfektion und hinterlässt nachhaltig Eindruck. Etwas, das man nicht von vielen Videospielen sagen kann.… Expand
  13. HuevoAlce
    Jun 27, 2022
    9
    Journey is a magnificent and emotional experience that can rarely be found in downloadable games.
  14. JudgmentJay
    Mar 13, 2012
    8
    Journey is a great little game. Amazing graphics, great music, and a somewhat unique multiplayer mechanic make it a memorable experience. I especially liked the fact that there was no dialogue so you were forced to use the sounds and body language of your character in order to communicate with your companion. I felt like it could have been just a little bit longer.. maybe another hour orJourney is a great little game. Amazing graphics, great music, and a somewhat unique multiplayer mechanic make it a memorable experience. I especially liked the fact that there was no dialogue so you were forced to use the sounds and body language of your character in order to communicate with your companion. I felt like it could have been just a little bit longer.. maybe another hour or so. All in all, definitely worth $15.… Expand
  15. Edda1801
    Jul 22, 2017
    8
    This is a game like no other. It's very artistic and I would even say musical. It uses no language and no real guide but it somehow just works. I enjoyed it and would recommend it just because it's so different.
  16. Edgar210
    Mar 14, 2012
    8
    It's a great game, it's better then great it could of been one of the BEST games of 2012 if it was an actual 60$ game. bottom line is it shouldn't be called journey, a journey doesn't take 1 hour of gameplay, it was one of the biggest game teases, because i was having so much fun taking my time, admiring the beuty and then Bam the ending hits you and it's a game over. im not sure if iIt's a great game, it's better then great it could of been one of the BEST games of 2012 if it was an actual 60$ game. bottom line is it shouldn't be called journey, a journey doesn't take 1 hour of gameplay, it was one of the biggest game teases, because i was having so much fun taking my time, admiring the beuty and then Bam the ending hits you and it's a game over. im not sure if i would have spent 15 dollars if i knew it was this short, but it does deserve an 8 because of everything else except lasting appeal… Expand
  17. Kanazawa
    Dec 17, 2012
    8
    Definitely not the best game ever created, but one of the most unique. I have never played a game with such fantastic multiplayer as this one. I found myself questioning whether it was an actual person or not many times throughout the game only to be stunned to see 5 people that I met along the way. I can't emphasize how good that multiplayer is, holy cow. The problem is, besides theDefinitely not the best game ever created, but one of the most unique. I have never played a game with such fantastic multiplayer as this one. I found myself questioning whether it was an actual person or not many times throughout the game only to be stunned to see 5 people that I met along the way. I can't emphasize how good that multiplayer is, holy cow. The problem is, besides the multiplayer and beautiful look and feel to it, there isn't much to it. Realistically it would be a 5-6/10 game without this perfect coop play. Is it worth the price? I would say so.… Expand
  18. JudgeHolden
    Apr 11, 2012
    8
    I didn't play Journey. I watched as my best friend played it. But I was simply captivated by this game. Four main reasons for why it's AWESOME: 1. It really feels unique, not just for the gameplay, but also for the setting and the plot; 2. Journey makes you think about thousand things, from ancient civilisations to cartoons you saw in your childhood, but also - why not? - even poses youI didn't play Journey. I watched as my best friend played it. But I was simply captivated by this game. Four main reasons for why it's AWESOME: 1. It really feels unique, not just for the gameplay, but also for the setting and the plot; 2. Journey makes you think about thousand things, from ancient civilisations to cartoons you saw in your childhood, but also - why not? - even poses you metaphysical questions. 3. Graphics are stunning! 4. Multiplayer... my God, multiplayer in Journey is a masterpiece! Pinging with a stranger is probably more engaging and socializing (albeit in anonymous way) than many hours I spent in WoW and other "social" games... I give this game 8. I would give it 9 if not for the last part before the ending, which left me a bit disappointed because of being a bit too much arcade... It felt like Sonic or Rayman, not Journey...… Expand
  19. sias
    Mar 29, 2012
    8
    Journey isn't so much a game (of course I shall continue to contradict myself henceforth by referring to it as a game) as it is an experience in the same vein as Dear Esther. But unlike Dear Esther, Journey is genuinely original and manages to offer just enough interactivity and narrative structure to not be categorised as just another boring artsy non-interactive slide-show. Journey isJourney isn't so much a game (of course I shall continue to contradict myself henceforth by referring to it as a game) as it is an experience in the same vein as Dear Esther. But unlike Dear Esther, Journey is genuinely original and manages to offer just enough interactivity and narrative structure to not be categorised as just another boring artsy non-interactive slide-show. Journey is visually stunning, beautifully constructed and wonderfully compelling. The co-op gameplay adds depth and it's genuinely fun singing at people you meet. I don't want to be spoilerific so I won't go into anymore than that. Only drawbacks are a very short playtime (1-2 hours) and a few parts where the game drags a little - offering nothing visually exciting for minutes at a time in such a short game is kind of a pain. But overall definitely worth a look for anyone.… Expand
  20. MonaKyshu
    Nov 10, 2013
    8
    Short but oh so sweet. Journey is an adventure platformer that is less about utilizing an array of different game mechanics to overcome a set goal, and more about simply experiencing and sometimes exploring the wondrous setting and adventure the game presents to you. That is not to say interactivity is non existent, but it is light and amounts to little more then traversing the scenes, butShort but oh so sweet. Journey is an adventure platformer that is less about utilizing an array of different game mechanics to overcome a set goal, and more about simply experiencing and sometimes exploring the wondrous setting and adventure the game presents to you. That is not to say interactivity is non existent, but it is light and amounts to little more then traversing the scenes, but what joyous traversal it can be at times. Climbing up a drop in the bucket sand dune while the horizon of sandy needle-points slowly reveal themselves and then whimsically surfing down the other side as you decide to uncover the mysteries behind the next. The visual design and effects do a lot of the legwork in making the game's scenes a visual euphoria, with not only large scale variety like open deserts, pseudo underwater sections, and frosty cliffs, but also little effects that delight such as the High Dynamic Range lighting that sets the sun ablaze, the subtly sparking sand that at certain angles reflects gushes of sunlight, the wind blowing plumes of sand past your feet, and the way the sand shifts and parts when coming in contact with the player or other creatures. Enhancing the game's breathtaking sets to great effect is the soundtrack that amplifies the game's magic and emotional impact. A charming and for some, thought provoking tale with little to show you but so much for you to see, Journey is for people who don't mind simple mechanics and could use some unadulterated wonder.… Expand
  21. robozot
    Mar 20, 2012
    8
    Journey is beautiful and involving. I didn't find it moving, but it is fascinating.

    I played online and had a companion for each chapter. I wasn't actually sure whether they were other players or a computer character, because they were integrated into the cut scenes too. It was thrilling. However for an experience this immersive it is over far too quickly. Less is more aesthetically, but    Journey is beautiful and involving. I didn't find it moving, but it is fascinating.

    I played online and had a companion for each chapter. I wasn't actually sure whether they were other players or a computer character, because they were integrated into the cut scenes too. It was thrilling.

    However for an experience this immersive it is over far too quickly. Less is more aesthetically, but I was still exploring after two hours, and was definitely not ready or expecting to have to wrap up so soon. A shame that in the end something so measured ends up feeling attenuated ... Regardless, the game is genuinely stunning, obviously made with love, and it tells a mythic story with a light hand, which I liked. I hope it's a success, as it suggests new directions for what's possible with setting and atmosphere in games.    … Expand
  22. theforeveverwar
    Dec 11, 2012
    8
    I truly wanted to love journey, and wished it was going to be the best game ever, but in the end although it was beautiful and had amazing graphics, it was an experience not much of a game, and a short one at that. I wish it was a bit longer, but that is the nature of things. still worth trying I enjoyed it, but couldn't help be disappointed by the length. Which is the main reason iI truly wanted to love journey, and wished it was going to be the best game ever, but in the end although it was beautiful and had amazing graphics, it was an experience not much of a game, and a short one at that. I wish it was a bit longer, but that is the nature of things. still worth trying I enjoyed it, but couldn't help be disappointed by the length. Which is the main reason i haven't played the unfinished swan.… Expand
  23. fep52
    Jun 15, 2012
    8
    A sublime video game experience and well worth the price of admission. With beautiful presentation and soundtrack, Journey has a number of moments which will stick with you for a long time.
  24. dennis_m
    Jun 15, 2012
    8
    A short but ultimately very sweet PSN gaming experience. Awesome, full orchestral music pieces, amazing art direction, innovative mulitplayer action. A unique game that stands out from the endless sea of FPS shooters.
  25. BraveRobot
    Jul 23, 2012
    8
    Fans of thatgamecompany
  26. akeats
    Aug 14, 2012
    8
    I haven't played this game but I am going to get it very soon based on reading these reviews. The reason I wanted to weigh in is that I'm amazed by a couple people complaining that there isn't much of anywhere to go...Just read the title, it's not about the destination, it's about the JOURNEY. Stop worrying about where you have to go and enjoy living in the moment.
  27. JPG127
    Dec 26, 2012
    8
    This is a solid, decent game. The graphics are as good, if not better than anything the major studios put out. The soundtrack is amazing and the progression is straight forward. It is about two hours in length and costs around $10 - 15 bucks. Journey, however, feels a little over-hyped. Definitely a good game, but not game of the year material. It is cool the developers created a gameThis is a solid, decent game. The graphics are as good, if not better than anything the major studios put out. The soundtrack is amazing and the progression is straight forward. It is about two hours in length and costs around $10 - 15 bucks. Journey, however, feels a little over-hyped. Definitely a good game, but not game of the year material. It is cool the developers created a game different from the norm in an amazing way. Definitely worth a play through, but not much beyond that.… Expand
  28. Le_Mental
    Feb 8, 2013
    8
    Okay, I really don't understand this one. Being a gamer for the past 25 years, I don't understand people telling this game is perfect or close to perfect... Okay it's beautiful and emotive by moments, but no real story, no voice acting, no combat, nothing happens, reaaaaaally slow...
  29. Strike2
    Jun 22, 2013
    8
    I decied to give this a try after all the praise it was receiving and it's easy to see why. Immediately when you start the game you are taken in by the beautiful art style and graphics. Your nameless character then gets up and you move towards the mountain in the distance. Movement in this game is so fluid, your character flows and glides over every sand dune. Thingts get even better whenI decied to give this a try after all the praise it was receiving and it's easy to see why. Immediately when you start the game you are taken in by the beautiful art style and graphics. Your nameless character then gets up and you move towards the mountain in the distance. Movement in this game is so fluid, your character flows and glides over every sand dune. Thingts get even better when you meet another player though. You will join into a match unknowingly and seamlessly and not being able to communicate with a player except with pings from your character is an interesting multiplayer mechanic that I would love to see more of. The game probably is a bit short though which us one of my only criticisms. The best way to play the game is in one uninterupted sitting, just open your mind and absorb yourself in the visuals and the game and take away your own interpretation of the story.… Expand
  30. TheDavyStar
    Aug 30, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. While I was playing Journey, I was constantly trying to put my finger on what I loved so much about it. Here I was, walking about and occasionally tapping O, with a little bit of X thrown in sporadically. Not much in the way of gameplay, I realised. But that, I began to realise near the end, was the point: Journey plays out a bit like a film: you sit back and passively consume the events that happen within the experience. It's just so relaxing to sit back and watch the scenery, seeing the lovely patterns that are created in the sand as you walk. I would elaborate more on why this game is such a joy to experience, but I'll sum it up with one word: subtlety.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best PS3 Game of 2012
4
#4 Most Discussed PS3 Game of 2012
3
#3 Most Shared PS3 Game of 2012

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
92

Universal acclaim - based on 78 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 77 out of 78
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 78
  3. Negative: 1 out of 78
  1. Adventure Gamers
    Mar 22, 2013
    100
    An ethereal, innovative, emotional cooperative experience, thatgamecompany’s Journey is one that any PlayStation 3 owner should take.
    Read full review
  2. Console Monster
    Sep 20, 2012
    95
    If there was ever a game deserving of the word beautiful in it's description, it's Journey. The game is stunning to look at, satisfying to play and oozes atmosphere from every angle of its dynamic story and immersive world. Sure it's short by regular game standards but Journey is not a regular game. If your ready for an experience that will surprise you, move you and stick with you for many years after its done, then maybe this is the Journey for you.
    Read full review
  3. Hyper Magazine
    May 14, 2012
    90
    Clever, emotive, and easily the best downloadable game so far this year. [June 2012, p.58]
See all critic reviews »