A very unique game that everyone can enjoy.
It's a relatively short game that will probably take most players 1-2 hours to beat depending on how much you want to explore the world. It's by the same developers of flOw so the same simple design and look applies here. But Flower plays more like a game since it actually has objectives and challenges, unlike flOw.
The story, if you can call it that, is very surreal and simple. There are no voice-overs or text. Everything plays out in short cutscenes with music and sound effects. It's a very subjective experience and I'm sure people will probably want to discuss what the message is behind the levels in the game (if there's any).
The gameplay is smooth and easy to learn. The SIXAXIS controls work great and are responsive. Moving the petals around is easy as pie. If you have the Dual Shock 3 with rumble, then that's even better since it's used to great effect in several areas. You basically need to guide some petals from one flower to another but that's all I will mention. The additional gameplay twists which come later should be discovered in order to enjoy the experience even more. Btw, the game has a lot of optional challenges for trophies so the replayability is actually quite high if you want the most out of it.
Finally, the graphics and sound. Like I said, the graphics are beautiful and rich. The huge amount of grass and foliage is amazing to see in motion. There is no loading within each level you're in so it's very immersive. The lighting and particle effects are very nice and minimal. The sound is also surprisingly impressive. If you have a surround system, then you're in for a treat. The sound of the swaying grass and wind is very cool to listen to all around you and very well done. The bass is also excellent because whenever you clear a section or complete a level, the rumbling effect sounds also surround you to great effect. Very nice on both fronts.
Overall, Flower is a great game with a unique look and feel. There were a lot of gameplay moments which felt like Rez that I'm sure fans of Rez will like. But it has the same melancholy feel as Ico and Shadow of the Colossus so fans of those games will like that too. This is a fantastic title for people who want something a little weird and outside the mainstream stuff. Highly recommended!
