Ecco: the Tides of Time
I'm not a big fan of the Ecco series to begin with. And all the problems that were in the first title make a return in the sequel. The game simply doesn't give you enough direction. You start off in many stages wondering what to do. So you go off wandering around. Exploring all the nooks and crannies of the level. Only to come up more confused and dismayed than before. The paths and puzzles aren't always recognizable. And often times, you accidentally stumble across the answer you need. Also bet on hitting the internet (maybe, GameFAQS.com) or a guide often to discover your next move.
The game does have its share of good qualities however. For instance, the controls are surprisingly fluid. Ecco is very maneuverable and can perform a number of tricks. Both below and above the waterline. The 3D "warp" stage is a nice change of pace too. It really shows off what you a good programmer can do with the Genesis hardware. I'll also give Ecco credit for having such large stages (despite the stage design issues).
Ecco: the Tides of Time isn't going to appeal to everyone. For me, the cons out-weighed the pros. But maybe someone else will find some charm in our bottle-nosed hero.
(screenshots from vgmuseum.com)
| Category | Rating | How & Why? |
| Graphics | 7 | Ecco is Well Animated / Nice Simulated-3D Stages / Cliché Backgrounds and Numerous Shades of Blue |
| Music | 6 | Weird, Omnipresent Soundtrack / Dolphin Sound-Effects are Okay |
| Gameplay | 5 | Ecco is Very Maneuverable / Huge Levels / Stage Direction & Objectives are Hard to Figure Out / And Puzzles aren't always Recognizable |
| Innovation | 6 | Original Theme, but the Execution is Terrible / The Game's Goal is Compromised for Non-Linear Stages |
| Replay | 5 | Despite Excellent Control, the Game Play isn't Engaging / Not Enough Action and Too Much Wandering Around / Some Direction could have Helped Things Along |
Overall 5.8
written by ShinjiZ for GameyPlace.com on June 7, 2001