If you haven't played Ico, please do yourself a favor. It's a puzzle platformer about protecting a girl named Yorda as you escape a castle together. The hand-holding mechanic is genius — you physically hold her hand to guide her.

No HUD, minimal dialogue, pure atmosphere. This is games-as-art before anyone was having that conversation. Sold terribly but it's a masterpiece.

Ico is proof that games can be emotionally affecting without explosions or dialogue trees. The connection you feel to Yorda through gameplay alone is remarkable.

The castle design is incredible. Every room feels like a real place. The way sunlight filters through windows is still some of the most beautiful lighting on PS2.

Criminally undersold. If you see a copy in a store, buy it. This game deserves way more recognition than it gets.