Post Games 20 years later, Shadow of the Colossus still matters
Oct 27, 2025
Join video essayist Jacob Geller, known for his deep cultural analyses of video games, as he delves into the lasting impact of Shadow of the Colossus. They discuss how the game uniquely combines emotional weight with artistic ambition and has remained relevant for two decades. Jacob shares personal anecdotes about his first encounter with the game and how his passion for it launched his career. They also explore the moral complexities of the colossus fights and how music enhances the emotional experience, solidifying the game’s status as an artistic treasure.
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Familiar Mechanics For Artistic Ends
- Shadow of the Colossus used familiar game mechanics (boss fights) to explore artistic themes rather than rely on constant combat fodder.
- The game's sparse world and focused boss encounters force players to reflect on the moral cost of their actions.
Technical Ambition Meets Minimalism
- Ueda's design blends technical ambition with minimalism: a huge, interconnected world without loading screens but intentionally sparse content.
- That contrast amplifies the game's mood and turns technical detail into subtle emotional texture.
Show, Don't Tell About Regret
- The game communicates regret and moral cost through imagery and gameplay rather than explicit dialogue.
- Players notice the protagonist's physical decay and mournful music, which silently reframes victories as tragedies.
