flOw

"A Masterpiece of Art and Ingenuity"

Every once in a while there comes a game so simple and pure that all you can do is just play it. Elektroplankton on the DS, ose one such game and now we have yet another game that you play simply to play and go on a journey in the process.

For those of you unfamiliar with flow there are a few things you should know, 1.this isn't really a game it is an experience. 2. If action and blowing things up is your thing this may not be for you. 3. If you like your games to have a goal or purpose this also probably isn't for you.

Now despite me just giving those reasons not to play every single gamer worth his/her salt will enjoy this game. From it's stunning and gorgeous visuals to its ethereal and other worldly music, flOw is art in motion.

I was really worried at first about this game being controlled only by sixaxis but let me tell you here and now, though it takes getting used to this method, it couldn't have been the game it is without it. It's more responsive then even the Wii-mote which trust me that is saying a lot. Each and every tilt and turn makes a difference and eventually leads to quite intuitive gameplay.

The graphics are amazing I only have 720p yet the details and lighting, and colors, are perfection. Your creature movements are perfectly smooth to the ebb and flow of the controller. Their is no slowing, no clipping, and no pixelation at all. Everything about this game is aesthetically stunning. Again it truly is a masterpiece. Even as your creature grows to enormous proportions the game's visuals stay true to its' name and simply flow about the screen leaving you simply with a sense of wonderment and amazement.

The music is understated and peaceful it truly lends to the felling that you are watching this underwater lifeform develop and evolve. It's breathtaking and invigorating even as it is almost not even there. The sound effects highlight the music and add to the symphony that represents the growth of your life form. It's almost like being in deep thought without the need of thinking. The sound and tones perfectly compliment the visuals as you explore this small but infinite world.

As is this games is a ten if you only play it by yourself you will spend hours controlling the different creature forms over and over again. You may wonder whether a game of this nature should have multiplayer. It certainly doesn't need it, but it also surprisingly is an entirely fun and equal experience as playing alone. You can even make up your own minigames and competitions, if your creative enough. I highly suggest playing with a friend or a loved one.

In closing I'd just like to say how truly amazing this game is. It's calming and enjoyable in ways that games normally aren't meant to be. So download this game, sit back by yourself or with a friend, dim the lights, and go with the flOw.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 03/01/07