Slimebeast said:
Great post, and for most parts I agree. And game-makers seem to agree as well apparently, because they so often choose the linear path. Sandbox games are still uncommon IMO. Damn, I love open world/sandbox gameplay. I wish... like a game like The Last Guardian, I would love it to be in an open world setting (would need hard work by the dev but it could be done). I mean I love the last scene where the rat monster lies in the grass beside the boy, and the wind is blowing on the foilage... to be able to set off and walk around and explore in such a beautiftul wonder landscape would be amazing. |
I should note that, for the most part as far as I can remember - SOTC does have an open world in that from the get go you can go anywhere - even to where each Colossus is. However if you go at the wrong time the Colossus simply isn't there to fight you. However you can explore, find interesting little spots, etc.
For example there are a few small 'oasis' dotted around with turtles, fish, etc. No real reason but they are very ambient. It works in that you really get into the head of your character. Wandering lost, mulling over the next Colossus you must confront, alone save for your horse, some scattered animals and the crumbling ruins that haunt the landscape. I know many would find it boring, but I personally spent ages just riding around, marvelling that this world felt real. It had a mammoth sense of place beyond Oblivion, etc. (for me) due to the amazing art direction and consistency.
It's interesting to note that originally SOTC was to feature small monsters, etc. and other standard stuff to be fought/found as you wandered around - but these were cut from the title (even though the ability to swing a sword remains). The game is probably less appealing to some as a result, and less standard - but I think the choice was a brave and correct one for the title.
As a result you really can just explore, the wind in your hair, wondering what ruins lie around the next hill, etc. I have to say just standing by a cliffside in SOTC, listening to the ambient sounds, is simply astonishing in terms of atmosphere.
I do enjoy standard gameplay, with lots of action and incident, but both ICO and SOTC have this whole other air about them that I'd advise you to try and experience. ICO is almost open world too, in that the castle it takes place in is consistent and you can wander at will once you've accessed an area. Neither title features levels or loading - everything is seamless after the initial boot up. Quite amazing.
Try to be reasonable... its easier than you think...