Embarking on a virtual voyage that captures the essence of wanderlust and spiritual discovery, thatgamecompany’s “Journey” is an adventure that feels less like a game and more like an interactive poem. Launched initially for the PlayStation 3 in 2012 and subsequently making its way to other platforms including PC and iOS, “Journey” has stood the test of time as a classic in the indie genre for its artistic approach and emotional resonance. In this game review, we’ll delve into what makes “Journey” a must-play title for gamers and enthusiasts, dissecting the elements that weave its enchanting tapestry, as well as any frayed edges it may have.
When you first set foot in the sweeping sands of “Journey,” you are greeted with a world that feels both vast and intimate. The game places you in the role of a robed figure on a quest to reach a distant mountain, with no explicit instructions or narrative exposition. It is this minimalist setup that allows “Journey” to speak volumes without uttering a single word, relying instead on its mesmerizing visuals and emotive soundtrack to tell its story.
From the outset, the art direction of “Journey” is nothing short of breathtaking. Your cloak-clad traveler is rendered with graceful lines and fluid animation, contrasting beautifully against the game’s stark but sublime landscapes. The soft glow of light and the dynamic ripple of sand beneath your character’s feet are hypnotically beautiful and serve as a pivotal component in the game’s primary allure. There is a poignant sense of isolation and poignancy as you traverse through deserts, underground caverns, and ruined cities, each locale conveying its own story through its design.
The soundtrack of “Journey” also deserves immense praise. Composer Austin Wintory created an Oscar-worthy score that brilliantly matches the visual dance on screen. It swells and subsides in perfect harmony with your actions, creating an emotional resonance that is rare in video gaming. Few games so effectively capture the player’s emotions through music, but “Journey” does so with a grace that elevates the experience into something profoundly moving.
“Journey,” at its core, is a platformer and puzzle game, but these descriptors hardly do justice to the gameplay experience. There’s no HUD, no points system, and no looming threat of death to rattle your nerves. Instead, there is discovery through movement and interaction, as you glide, surf on sand, and soar through the air with the help of magical scarves you find along the way. These scarves also represent your ability to communicate; the game features a unique multiplayer component where you can encounter other players on their own journeys. Without any voice chat or text, communication is relegated to musical chimes, which become surprisingly expressive within the context of the game.
The simplicity of the game extends to its playtime, which is notably short. The entire experience can be completed in one to two hours, making it accessible for a focused session of gaming. However, this brevity is a double-edged sword. While the game ensures its welcome is never overstayed, and its narrative and emotional arc remains tight, it also leaves some players yearning for more. The lack of traditional action or in-depth puzzles might be off-putting to those accustomed to more robust gameplay mechanics.
Additionally, while “Journey” is undeniably a masterpiece of mood and environment, there are those who argue its class as a game. With few challenges and virtually no way to fail, critics claim that “Journey” leans closer to interactive art than to traditional gaming fare. While this is not inherently a detriment, those looking for a more conventional gaming challenge might find the experience lacking.
Furthermore, despite the anonymous multiplayer feature being an innovative way to foster wordless companionship, there are times when the presence of another traveler can intrude on the introspective solitude that defines much of the “Journey” experience. The quiet desert excursions can suddenly become a shared adventure without player consent, altering the tone and emotional impact. Some players have noted that they prefer a solitary trek for a more self-reflective experience, and while others are opened up to the beauty of unspoken collaboration, it’s worth noting this as a preference element.
Over the years since its release, “Journey” has shown remarkable longevity. It’s a game that elicits strong, often personal reactions from its players. This is no small feat in an industry that often values high-octane action and complex gameplay systems. The simplicity, tranquility, and emotional depths of “Journey” have solidified it as a touchstone for what video games can be as a medium.
As a gaming experience, “Journey” is perhaps more akin to a spiritual meditation or a dreamlike saunter than a conventional video game. It’s an exploration of empathy, collaboration, and the wordless bonds we form. Whether you interpret its ending as the completion of a cycle, a metaphorical passing, or a spiritual ascension, one thing is clear: “Journey” is a game that will linger in your mind long after the console has powered down.
In summation, “Journey” is a testament to the potential of video games as an art form. It is a serene, beautiful, and evocative experience that stands as a counterpoint to the bombast and frenzy of the mainstream gaming industry. While its minimalism and brevity may not satisfy all appetites, and its forced multiplayer experience may sometimes clash with its themes of solitude, “Journey” is undeniably a lovingly crafted work that transcends the sum of its parts to offer an experience that is as substantive emotionally as it is visually and aurally. For those willing to stray from the beaten path and embrace its gentle rhythm, “Journey” offers a voyage well worth taking.