Battlefield 1942: The Initial Significant Influence for Shadow of the Colossus


**The Unforeseen Muse Behind Shadow Of The Colossus: Battlefield 1942**

Within the sphere of video game creation, inspiration can arise from the most unlikely places. This is exemplified by the cherished PlayStation 2 title, Shadow Of The Colossus, helmed by Fumito Ueda. Unveiled in 2005, this game is acclaimed for its eerily stunning landscapes and the emotional richness of its storyline, which revolves around the hero’s mission to conquer towering colossi.

In a recent conversation, Ueda and his team at Team Ico, together with associates from Sony, explored the game’s development journey, uncovering an unexpected early source of influence: Battlefield 1942. This discovery is fascinating, given the stark differences between the two titles. Battlefield 1942, a first-person shooter set against the backdrop of World War II, is noted for its large-scale conflicts and multiplayer frenzy, while Shadow Of The Colossus offers a solitary, reflective experience centered on the connection between the player and the colossi.

Ueda’s inspiration from Battlefield 1942 was not based on its combat context or gameplay dynamics, but instead on the vast potential he perceived in the experience of expansive, open environments. The notion of broad, explorable landscapes resonated with Ueda, igniting the initial idea for Shadow Of The Colossus. This vision ultimately evolved into the game’s sweeping terrains, where players navigate barren landscapes in pursuit of the next colossal adversary.

The development crew also explored multiplayer components during the initial phases of crafting Shadow Of The Colossus. However, these concepts were ultimately abandoned to preserve the game’s emphasis on a solitary quest, highlighting the emotional significance of the protagonist’s choices.

The interview illuminates the creative journey behind Shadow Of The Colossus, showcasing how a seemingly unrelated game like Battlefield 1942 could inspire the creativity of a visionary director like Ueda. It stands as evidence of the unpredictable essence of inspiration and the transformative potential of creative vision in the realm of game development.