I had a very solid experience in this game and while I didn't feel as emotionally affected as some other people, I must say I truly felt like my time was worth it. The game's aesthetics and audio just has something about it. The music is immaculate - I still listen to it daily and I can't get enough of it. I highly recommend listening to other soundtracks by Austin Wintory as well.

But what really makes Journey shine is its coop gameplay. Throughout the game, you are paired with a companion, with whom you can communicate only by "chirping" with a button and your movements. It's incredible how much you can communicate without words. I feel this limited communication enhances the effect of the game as it makes you feel closer to your companion. This is because you have to find ways to work around the game's restrictions, which forces you to understand each other on a more intuitive level.

You play through the game, helping each other, and it really makes you care for the other person. This is mainly due to how you have to stay near your companion to charge your cape (used as a meter to fly). As a result, you and your companion have to stick together, and wait for one another, creating really wholesome moments where the characters almost cuddle each other. It's rlly cute!

The story also intensifies towards the end (the snow area) as the game ramps up its difficulty. I remember one moment where my companion and I were struggling through the harsh storm. Suddenly, I found myself pushed back by the wind, leaving me several metres away from my companion. I was left crying in despair as I worried I would lose my friend forever. But surprisingly, my companion stuck with me, refusing to leave me behind. I know it might sound silly to say this about a game, but I think that feeling will stick for me forever.

Such moments of genuine companionship and patience are rare in online video games, where players often stick to trash talking and trolling. While such toxicity can be occasionally fun too, I find Journey's different approach to co-op truly refreshing and different. It's incredible how the game's mechanics (of players charging each other's capes) encourages an environment of companionship and cooperation. This is a great example of how game mechanics can influence player behaviour. Navigating through a difficulty together with your companion strengthens your emotional bond with them. It's when you celebrate your successes together and help each other through obstacles that you feel most connected to your companion. Having a companion makes the emotional moments hit harder.

It's definitely better to play with someone who is experiencing the game for the first time, though, as it'll feel more authentic. If you meet someone who has already beaten the game multiple times, you will likely just be following them around as they show you all the hidden collectibles, which kind of kills the joy of exploration for me personally. I think the companion you meet can really be the defining factor in whether you enjoy this game. You'll have a much better time when you find someone you 'click' with.

The best way I can describe this game is as a 'shared experience'. Whilst its individual puzzles elements and gameplay may be lacking for those looking for a traditional game, the game's emotional value and theme of companionship outweighs all of these cons. I view this game as more of an experience than a traditional game. It offers a refreshing departure from the toxic fueled lobbies of online multiplayer games. It's an absolute must try experience if you are looking for something truly different and fresh. I definitely recommend playing it in one sitting with one companion for the best experience.

amazing.

Playing along a stranger with no means of communication is what impressed me most about Journey. By the end of the game i grew attached to this friend i made along the way. I was worried when i couldn’t see him anymore and it left me somehow empty when we departed. An unique, relaxing and charming experience, with well crafted visuals and music!

If you enjoyed Journey, check Abzu out.