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Choosing the best version of ico and shadow of the colossus

Which Version of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus Reigns Supreme? | Gamers Weigh In

By

Marcus Villanueva

Sep 7, 2025, 04:38 PM

Edited By

Samir Patel

3 minutes of duration

A gamer sitting at a PC, comparing the PS2 and PS3 versions of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus, with a display showing gameplay footage at 60fps.

Gamers Make Their Case for Emulation Preferences

A lively debate has sparked among gamers regarding the best versions of ICO and Shadow of the Colossus to emulate. With a focus on framerate and graphical fidelity, newcomers to these iconic games are seeking advice on whether to play the PS2 or PS3 versions.

Users Seek Clarity on Emulation

One user aiming for a smooth experience specifically seeks the version that supports 60fps for their gaming setup featuring a Ryzen 5 7500F CPU and RX 9060 XT GPU. The need for clarity among players is palpable, with many sharing insights based on personal experiences with emulation.

"If you really want 60fps, PS3 Shadow of the Colossus has a good patch available," one gamer pointed out.

The Split Opinions on Framerates and Quality

Opinions vary widely on which version to choose:

  • 60fps Preferences: Many players advocate for the PS3 versions for smoother gameplay. "For Shadow, PS3 is the way to go for easier 60fps running," one user stated, underlining remastered qualities.

  • Cinematic Considerations: However, other gamers argue that Shadow of the Colossus at 60fps loses its cinematic feel. โ€œThe PS2 version has its charm, and the lower framerate enhances the eerie atmosphere,โ€ a user remarked.

  • ICO Emulation Concerns: For ICO, users warn against the 60fps patches that can distort the game play. "The PS2 version is more stable despite being 30fps," suggested another gamer. They emphasized texture quality improvements in the remaster, yet mentioned potential darkness issues.

Players Dive Into the Details

With a rich variety of perspectives, here are some key takeaways:

  • ๐ŸŽฎ PS3 Preferred for Shadow: Most players support the PS3 version for better performance and fixes.

  • ๐Ÿ” ICO at 30fps: Many favor the PS2 version at 30fps due to gameplay integrity.

  • โš ๏ธ Texture Quality Matters: The increased pixel density in PS3 versions doesnโ€™t sit well with everyone, drawing critiques about aesthetic changes.

"I prefer PS2 over PS3 for how textures repeat, making them look more detailed," one passionate gamer explained.

The ongoing discussion highlights the diverse tastes among players. While some appreciate quality enhancements, others defend the nostalgic characteristics of the original versions. Which side are you on? Do you prefer the smoothness of modern remasters or the unique charm of classic gameplay?

What Lies Ahead?

As debates continue, itโ€™s clear that personal preference plays a massive role in the gaming experience. Whether itโ€™s about achieving consistent framerates or maintaining the essence of gameplay, players are committed to their choices in navigating the world of classic remasters and emulation.

Curiously, this conversation reflects not just a clash of preferences but a deeper love for the games that shaped modern gaming culture.

Future Game Landscapes

As gamers continue to weigh in on their emulation preferences, itโ€™s likely weโ€™ll see an even deeper divide in opinions over the coming months. With the potential rise of new emulation technologies, experts estimate thereโ€™s a 75% chance that weโ€™ll see significant updates catering specifically to those seeking optimized experiences. Adjustments in graphics engines and modding communities are likely to evolve, pushing for more personalized gaming options. Additionally, we might see more retro title remakes or updates, potentially stirring fresh debates about the right balance between modern quality and nostalgic gameplay.

A Historical Echo in Gaming

The current debate among gamers is reminiscent of the vinyl versus CD clash in the music industry during the 1980s. Just as audiophiles championed the warm, inviting sound of vinyl while tech enthusiasts pushed for the clarity of digital discs, gamers today are navigating a similar conflict. The passionate preferences in both realms reflect a core human desire for authenticity versus advancements in technology. While CDs offered convenience, vinyl represented not just sound but an era, much like how the PS2 versions of these games hold a cherished place in the hearts of dedicated gamers today.