Gameplay:
Flower is first and foremost more of an experience than a game. In Flower you aren’t a person, place or thing, but rather the wind blowing calmly through beautifully detailed areas. When any button on the PS3 controller is pressed, the wind gains speed and the tilt of the sixaxis guides your direction. In each of the 6 chapters included, you are in charge of collecting flowers by breezing through them, and each chapter incorporates different mechanics to ensure variety. Each chapter begins with a short montage of different kinds leading up to the display of a lone flower ready to bloom. The presentation is great and definitely one of the most original experiences to be had on any console. The game also incorporates a visual poem that speaks in experiences rather than words.
Controls:
In Flower, the press of any button on the PS3 controller speeds up the wind. While holding down a button will make you go faster, it is good to mix speed and control in many cases. Also, the analog sticks are completely done away with and the simple tilt of the sixaxis guides your direction. It makes for a very relaxing and fun experience. However, it seems that in order to stay level with the ground the controller needs to be pointed down too far which makes it just about impossible to lie down and play the game.
Graphics:
The visuals of Flower are absolutely gorgeous, and it is a shame that many HDTV owners don’t have a chance to see the game. Each level within the game is filled with grasses and other vegetation that sway in the wind calmly and look genuine. Upon the completion of each objective and stage there are visuals to accompany the accomplishment that make for a brilliant display of colors and design. The use of vibrant colors and a marvelous sky make each field in the game seem like a brilliant painting.
Sound:
The sound effects of Flower help mold the game into what it is. Each blow of the wind is accompanied by the sound of the grass moving and flowers being absorbed into the wind. The music is limited but helps shape the natural mood desired. The sounds of Flower are appropriate and fitting for the title.
Replay Value:
Flower is a very short game and can easily be completed in one sitting. However, the game is only $10 over the Playstation Network and with the addition of trophies and secrets, the game has a fair share of replay value. The game isn’t for everybody but for those who do enjoy Flower, it’s a great game to turn on when looking to relax.
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Rating:
Story: 8.0
Gameplay: 7.5
Graphics: 9.0
Controls: 8.0
Sound: 8.5
Replay Value: 6.5
Overall: 8.2
Own, Rent, Avoid:
Own: For only $10, Flower is a very genuine and unique experience that is something not to be forgotten.
Last Thoughts:
While not for everybody, Flower is a great attempt at something new. The gameplay, visuals, audio accompanied with trophies make this a budget title worth purchasing.
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Written By
Jonathan Leack
3/21/2009
