If there was ever a game that could be considered “art,” then thatgamecompany’s mesmerizing Journey would be it. With glittering sands that move like liquid, a subtle color palette, and a beautiful musical score, Journey is an unforgettable adventure.
Journey’s bold take against traditional video games makes it hard to classify as one as well. The subtleties are in the relationship between the player and the game itself. Nothing––no dialogue, no HUD, no clear direction––is what greets you the first time the game starts up. The only advice you receive is the illuminated peak of a distant mountain and a suggestive wind blowing you into the right course.
This is what makes Journey unique. It is about finding direction, purpose, and the inevitable conflict that will be met when trying to reach that goal. Journey, as the title might suggest, is about a journey you take as the player.
Story
You take the form of a nameless, faceless figure. Draped head-to-toe in patterned robes, the figure communicates with musical trills and chirps. There is no information given on the origin of the creature.
How the character came to the desert or why they must go on this journey is never answered. This is because it is insignificant. Almost immediately you encounter an animated piece of red fabric, akin to your robes. Glowing, it joins you as a scarf. This scarf will grow as you progress through the game and allow you the ability to jump, making this the one and only major powerup your character will ever receive. And it’s the only one you’ll need.
Graphics and Aesthetics
Aesthetically, Journey is by far the most beautiful game I have ever played. The use of light is almost blinding in its boldness, a thoughtful contrast to the seemingly flat use of color. Although the light provides both depth and dimensionality, the look of the game is almost that of a matte painting or a concept art sketch. This effectively creates an interesting and original art style that matches each scene well.
Journey takes you from the deserts, to the ocean, and up into the snowy mountains. Complemented by Austin Wintory’s soundtrack, which is a perfect match for the game, each transition feels fluid and organic. Somehow both minimalistic and engaging, it manages to say a lot with very little.
Although there are varied environments, the majority of the time is spent in the desert. The peach and orange sands sparkle, and the player moves through each environment by walking, sliding, and hopping. On occasion a simple environmental puzzle may have to be solved, but there is no true combat. This allows the player to relax. Without the worry of death, you can take the time to fully immerse yourself in the world and experience the entirety of what Journey has to offer.
Gameplay
On occasion, a random and anonymous player may join you on your playthrough. What makes this interesting is that those who have already played Journey can go back through the story from the beginning and help those who are wandering through the game for the first time.
The irreplaceable beauty of Journey is the way it successfully creates an emotional bond between you and your partner. I found myself irrationally fond of my silent mentor who helped me find each missing glyph. Each glyph allowed my scarf to grow longer, allowing me to therefore glide longer too. This fondness was extended to each expressive piece of cloth found in each level. That is one of the greatest marks of success to the subtleties of this game. No words ever needed to be exchanged.
When it comes down to it, how you play Journey is completely up to you. As stated, this is the player’s journey and experience. A lone adventure is just as evocative as one with a partner. Either experience is just as fulfilling.
Overall
A short game, three hours at the most, Journey is certainly about the experience. The pacing is precise. No matter the direction you choose to take, the game finds a way to put you back on track and on the proper path. Unconventional and uncomplicated, Journey has redefined gaming for me. I have never thought of multiplayer so highly; most multiplayer seen today is based on competitiveness, and I could never before imagine such a level of cooperation between parties. It is an effective illustration of the legitimacy of games as a storytelling medium and a solid example of artistic expression.
Do not go looking into Journey and expect your typical AAA fare. Look at Journey for what it is. It does what it wanted to achieve successfully and nearly flawlessly. As far as what you should take away from the game, the experience is purely personal. Journey is purposely vague. Each play-through is yours alone.
Journey warrants a 9/10.
