First Runner Up: The Last Guardian
A story about a nameless young boy and a massive beast called Trico, The Last Guardian explores the bond that grows between the two as they escape from mysterious ruins. It’s as simple a journey as it sounds, yet a beautifully unforgettable experience.
I have no qualms in calling Trico the most lifelike video game companion ever created. The massive beast moves with curious hesitancy and clumsy loyalty. Its eyes follow you with fear as you climb platforming puzzles mounted in an endless sky. Trico whinnies with sadness should you travel out of its view, and teeters on the edge of daunting jumps with incredibly convincing stubbornness. Unlike most video game interactions, there’s something special between your button prompts and Trico’s actions — a tilt of the head, a slow approach, or sometimes an outright refusal — that feels like an existing personality making its own decisions.
Trico’s realism is endlessly compelling, empowering each scene with an empathy few games achieve. They pierce you more thoroughly with each brave leap, playful shake, and grateful pat on the head. The Last Guardian requires no small amount of patience, but this only makes its subtle connections all the more spellbinding.
