Flower

EL33TONLINE ( )

Flower is one of the very best downloadable games we have seen thus far, and is certain to be remembered as one of the best games of 2009. As a gameplay experience it is unique and enthralling, making for the type of game that simply doesn’t come along very often. PS3 owners looking for a different experience are strongly encouraged to spend the money and the bandwidth to download Flower, as they’ll find themselves rewarded with a bouquet of brilliance.

Gaming Age (A)

I look forward to delving back into the world of Flower again and again, and it's a great title that should be accessible to all players, of any age. It's an interesting take on a form of entertainment that often puts destruction over creation, and I definitely think some interesting conversation can come out of the theme presented by this title. The gameplay is very simple, and hardcore players looking for some type of insane challenge might be disappointed, but give this one a shot for yourself, and be willing to take a different approach to your typical game and see how you feel about it in the end.

ZTGameDomain (10 out of 10)

Championing minimalistic instruction, Flower doesn’t erect staunch, principled defenses; rather, it presents itself like an interactive painting and invites you in. If a player doesn’t “get it”, they will move on but for those ensnared by Flower’s aesthetic lingering is rewarded, and lingering is a rewarding experience. The captivating Flower manages to be both uncomplicated and deep. While many games fail to truly engage the player this highly conceptual title succeeds, and is more immersive than many feature-driven titles dare to dream.

TheSixthAxis (10 out of 10)

Overall it is relatively short, with a single playthrough being somewhere around two hours, but whilst it may not provide masses of varied replayability, my continuing hunger to play it just one more time makes up for that. If you don’t own this you are doing yourself a disservice. Some may think that £6.29 for two hours of gameplay isn’t good enough value for money. My response is simple; never before has a game moved me so strongly, never before has a game made my day better, never before has a game affected my view on life and never again will I be so content with the spending of a handful of pounds.

1UP (A)

Otherwise, the game is wholly enjoyable from start to finish. I even found myself replaying some of the previous levels just to let my petals waft in the air, my controller sitting untouched on the desk while I worked. The game's short -- the seven areas only take about two to three hours to finish on the first try (if you don't play it obsessively like I do). But it's a joy to revisit each stage -- the freedom of movement makes the game feel as relaxing as a gently wafting breeze. The challenge is there for those who seek it, but Flower is something everyone can enjoy.

Giant Bomb ( )

Download services like the PlayStation Store are the best thing to happen to consoles in a long while. They make offbeat experimental games like this one possible, when such games would likely never reach shelves in boxed form due to the raw business realities of retail publishing. But because we can circumvent the obstacles of physical distribution, we can have games like Flower, a tiny, beautiful, elegantly designed piece of software that I feel richer for having played.

Gamers' Temple, The (98 out of 100)

Flower is as much an experience as it is a game.

Random Access (9.5 out of 10)

Overall, I really enjoyed playing this game. The gameplay was simple, the ideas were complex, and the experience was beautiful. This game inspired me to feel the freedom and power that was innate in my own human nature and use it to enable and empower something new to grow and to invest in my community. I think that was the purpose it set out to serve. Hopefully the zen genre continues to prosper. Thatgamecompany is doing a great job of allowing its customers to consider the possibility of games as art, and enabling deeper discussion about the narratives of games.

Playstation Illustrated (95 out of 100)

In the end, Flower is an artfully executed piece of interactive entertainment. One question remains, however: does Flower really fit the mold of what is conventionally known as a game? The answer doesn't matter. Play it.

Game Critics (9.5 out of 10)

Flower is the kind of soulful nourishment we need more of.

Digital Chumps (9.4 out of 10)

Flower crushes game design conventions and discards them like its confection of petals. In an interview with the SCEA Blog, Chen said, "I think it's a miracle that people actually funded us to make this game," and I can definitely see where he's coming from. I'm as surprised to play and enjoy it as he was to get the chance to make it. My experience wasn't a wild success because it was different from the norm, but for the sole reason that it provided one of the purest feelings of escape I've ever received from a videogame. As a downloadable title its scope and statement may be overlooked, but, from a design standpoint, it's as "next gen" as any title yet. Flower isn't one to be missed.

Cheat Code Central (4.7 out of 5)

Flower is definitely one of the most ambitious games of this generation, and your perception of it will depend on what you want from a game. If you are the type of person that thrives on adventure-based gameplay with plenty of action and things to destroy/shoot/jump on, then Flower may not be for you. But, if you don't mind taking some time out of your day to enjoy something completely different, with no real goal or objective, then Flower is definitely worth its $10 purchase price. With stunning visuals, a beautiful soundtrack, and relaxing gameplay, this title is one-of-a-kind and, as such, simply can't be missed!

Game Chronicles (9.2 out of 10)

Flower is the best $10 you can spend on your PS3. It is the most relaxing, soothing, and otherworldly experience any console has ever seen, and only the power of the PS3 can bring something this original and breathtaking into your living room. It is the perfect experience for those looking to escape for a few hours without any fast cars, blazing firearms, or crazy rules. Flower is a “game” you will revisit often and treasure for a lifetime.

Gaming Nexus (9.1 out of 10)

Another innovate game from Sony that shows a completely different style of game. It's not for everyone but it's worth checking out if you're looking for something different or want a game that lowers your blood pressure instead of raising it.

The A.V. Club (A-)

Visually potent and occasionally beautiful, Flower fulfills its premise with enviable grace.

PAL Gaming Network (PALGN) (9 out of 10)

Flower is not only a breath of fresh air, but a gust of glorious wind on which your spirit will soar. This is a work of art, a quiet classic, and a game which will be remembered and discussed in reverent tones for years to come.

UOL Jogos ( )

"Flower" é um jogo bastante incomum, tanto em seu conceito como em sua mecânica. O simples ato de guiar uma pétala de flor pelo ar se torna uma grande experiência de vida, lembrando que o videogame não precisa apenas desafiar os dedos ou a cabeça do jogador, mas também seu coração. Embora não seja longo, a viagem é tão cativante que pode ser repetida por várias vezes, abrindo caminho para novas interpretações e momentos de puro relaxamento.

Absolute Games (AG.ru) (90 out of 100)

Неподвижным картинкам не отразить великолепие красок, не передать пьянящее чувство полета, не растопить осколки зимнего льда в сердце. Циник вы или романтик, попробуйте Flower. И непременно дарите цветы.

Gameplanet (9 out of 10)

For now though, if you want to try something spiritual, fun, relaxing and a little different during these tough times, you really can't go wrong with Flower. As an almost Zen-like gaming experience; the gameplay is simple but perfect for what the game wants to achieve; peace and beauty.

GameDaily (9 out of 10)

Flower also blooms with an awesome and colorful presentation, one of the best we've ever seen in a downloadable-only game. The orchestral music, which builds with each petal you acquire, is ear-soothing, and the rich visual landscapes will make your eyes water. More stages would've been nice, as the game ends sooner than expected with only seven stages. Regardless, for $10, it's worth going back into time and time again, if only to take in the sweetness of these digital roses.

GamePro (US) ( )

Movie critic Roger Ebert gained infamy for his "video games are not art" statement. Well, someone needs to hook him up with a copy of the newly released PSN title Flower, and force feed the unkindly critic his own words. Masterful controls and the perfect mix of music and color combine to make an interactive experience that's not only creative and unique, but takes players on an emotive journey. If you're looking for an example of art in video game form, Flower is it.

IGN (9 out of 10)

thatgamecompany's Co-founder, Jenova Chen, told me that Flower is experimenting with territory outside the traditional "fun pie," an abstract pie chart Chen constructed that maps out the emotions and motives of modern game genres. If you're interested in something very unique and very powerful, Flower is a must-play. It will especially resonate with people that possess a deep connection with nature and spirituality, as it's the type of game that reaches out to us and whispers about the beauty of life -- without saying anything at all.

Play.tm (90 out of 100)

But that said, within a brief visit to this magical land there is an impressive range of environments and challenges. This is easily more than a technology demo - as some accused Flow of being. As with any game like this, it is much easier to understand in the flesh than to explain. And I suggest you do just that. For a minimal investment you will find a gaming experience as elegant and subtle as any novel. And like a good novel, it is one you will want to pass on to all your friends.

PSX Extreme (9 out of 10)

Basically, all you really do is swoop around, opening up flowers so life can completely return to this miniature world that apparently exists inside a single flower in a small city apartment. There’s nothing else. But there really doesn’t need to be: the experience is almost indescribable, and even if you’re not a big fan of motion sensing (and we’re not), you will smile throughout your experience. You may not even realize the smile is there, but you might notice if you play long enough…and trust us, this game can hold your attention. It’s just so captivating. It’s like playing a painting; restoring life to a drab picture with the small movement of your wrists. And that, without any shadow of a doubt, is both an excellent achievement and a nod to artistic creativity in an ever-burgeoning industry. Flower is…well…flowerful!

Gamer 2.0 (9 out of 10)

We’ve been seeing Flower for just over a year now and thatgamecompany has done a good job of succeeding all expectations for the game. Flower offers a great experience for $10 that anyone who is open-minded enough to try it out will enjoy a great deal. This game can be as simple as a great game for kids to play and explore without much of any conflict to worry about while technophiles will love the great visuals and audio as a way to show off their home theater set-ups to friends and relatives.

IGN UK (9 out of 10)

And it does all this without ever forcing itself on you. With only the barest hint of an instruction to go on, Flower begs you to make sense of it on your own terms. Perhaps because of that, it’s probably a game that will divide opinions. In that respect, it’s similar to Electroplankton, or those Flash bubble-popping games. For people who don’t get it, it’ll just be another pretty but pointless bit of multimedia, and the arty aspirations won’t be enough to mask the lack of substance. But if you succumb to its charms and let it meander its way into the deeper recesses of your consciousness, you’ll find Flower to be full of some of the finest gaming moments known, and your life will be all the richer for playing it. So why be a bulging-veined Space Marine with steroids coming out of your eyeballs, when you could be a little Flower, dreaming of brighter days?

Thunderbolt Games (9 out of 10)

Flower may not be for everyone but if you go into it with the right mind-set then you’re guaranteed to witness something exceptional. Whether it’s the subtle notes you play as you brush past each flower or the firework effect of bringing a field to life at night; each of Flower’s levels are unique and offer something for everyone. As a cheap download it’s a game everyone needs to at least try, some way or another. If you’re reincarnated after you die I want to come back as a flower and play out these daydreams all over again.

The Review Busters (9 out of 10)

Flower controllers way too good that it is scary. This is the kind of game that should be purchased by everyone that owns a Playstation 3. Ten dollars for this game is well worth the price. My only real problem here is the challenge, but trust me some of those trophy descriptions might add an extra hour or two of gameplay.

Jeuxvideo.com (18 out of 20)

Flower dépasse le cadre du jeu vidéo tel qu'on l'entend habituellement : il s'agit d'une expérience poétique. La console est ici utilisée comme un vecteur pour vous transmettre de fortes émotions et vous immerger dans un monde onirique. Il est certain que ce titre ne plaira pas à tout le monde, mais ceux qui aiment sortir des sentiers battus trouveront là une véritable œuvre d'art disponible à un prix modique. Vous sentez-vous prêt à plonger dans le rêve d'une fleur pour en revenir avec des étoiles dans les yeux ?

GamingBolt (9 out of 10)

In summary, there really isn’t anything else like Flower out there today and certainly not on the Playstation Store. As much as I doubted the game before playing it, I can not justifiably finish this review without saying Flower is a must buy for any PS3 owner. The experience is simply too rich to miss.

That Gaming Site (9 out of 10)

Those seeking a traditional game will find something different, but all players, gamers or not, will enjoy and appreciate Flower. This is the gaming equivalent to a cool down in exercise.

GamingTrend (90 out of 100)

Flower isn't a perfect game, and it may not hold your interest long - but while it does, you may just find yourself loving it and hoping there is more to come.

D+PAD Magazine ( )

It’s debatable as to whether the first half of Flower perhaps works best: it is, after all, the sense of merry abandon and pure gusto that arguably makes the title the perfect piece of ‘Zen Gaming’ that it claims to be. But then others will almost certainly disagree; that the second half of Flower is filled with more purpose, that it feels more like a traditional “game”. Regardless, Flower is an epiphany moment for the SIXAXIS: a game that outright wouldn’t work without the motion controls, and one enhanced tenfold by their perfect execution. It’s a title that you’ll go back to time and time again, not only to explore concealed areas and find individual petals, but because of its intrinsically addictive and peaceful nature. Disregard Flower for its unconventionality and you’ll be missing out on one of the finest (and definitely most exquisite) titles to hit PSN so far.

Eurogamer.de (9 out of 10)

Flower ergeht sich nicht in der Frage, ob Videospiele Kunst sein können. Denn es weiß, dass eher umgekehrt ein Schuh daraus wird. Natürlich kann Kunst auch die Form eines Videospieles annehmen. Im Fall von Flower ist das eine Form von so beachtlicher Schönheit, dass beiläufig durchs Zimmer schlendernde bessere Hälften oder Mitbewohner das Geschehen auf dem Schirm für einen besonders eleganten Bildschirmschoner halten würden. Außer, dass es zu diesem Missverständnis gar nicht kommen kann. Denn vorher hat man dem Passanten schon alles über dieses Erlebnis erzählt und ihm den Sixaxis-Controller in die Hand gedrückt. Die Chancen stehen gut, dass er 90 Minuten lang ein ganzes Stück glücklicher ist – und danach trotzdem nie wieder ein Wort darüber verliert. Flower ist nämlich vorbei, kurz bevor man genug davon hatte. Aber was soll man machen? Manche Blumen blühen halt nur ein Mal, ganz kurz im Leben.

TotalPlayStation (9 out of 10)

An absolutely brilliant game, and one that does more to stir the emotions than any AAA epic you've likely played in recent memory. If this isn't art, I'm not sure games can be art.

4Players.de (90 out of 100)

Wäre es einzig und allein schön anzusehen, würde es auf das Niveau eines interaktiven Bildschirmschoners herabsinken. Aber es ist mehr als das. Es erzählt eine Geschichte über seine Landschaft, seine Symbolik und seine Musik. Es ist entspannend und fordernd, es ist ansehnlich und belohnt Entdecker. Und damit ist es mehr als eine Grafikdemo, es ist mehr als nur L'Art pour l'art oder ein weiteres blödes Käschuälgaym. Ihr findet da draußen viel gewöhnlichen Murks für 60 bis 70 Euro, hier bekommt ihr eine angenehm frische und emotionale Spielerfahrung für 7,99 Euro, bei der Sixaxis zum ersten Mal richtig Spaß macht. Flower ist ein grafischer, musikalischer und spielerischer Genuss, der weit über den Grenzen des klassischen Spieldesigns fliegt und damit vielleicht ein neues Genre begründen kann. Wenn das "Zen-Gaming" heißt, dann freue ich mich auf mehr davon!

videogamer.com (9 out of 10)

Flower is not entirely bereft of flaws. The Sixaxis motion controls may be fun to use but they lack tight precision - something that only becomes a vague issue during the fifth stage, where there are hazards to avoid. It's also possible to get stuck from time to time, forcing you to speed all over the level in an effort to find the one plant that must be touched before you can move to the next area. Though rare, this situation can be frustrating when it arises - temporarily breaking the game's soothing atmosphere. To be honest though, neither of these problems is particularly significant. The more pressing issue for Flower is whether or not the masses will be up for trying its admittedly unusual concept. If you're still reading this review then it's likely that you're at least a little bit curious, in which case I strongly urge you to give it a go. Flower is a brilliant little piece of work, gorgeous and moving in equal measures.

NZGamer (8.9 out of 10)

Flower is magical. There really isn't another word to describe it. It's fresh, it's new, it's fun and it has a whole lot of heart. Don't pass on the opportunity to pick it up.

GameSpot (Belgium/Netherlands) (88 out of 100)

Met zijn vraagprijs van 7,99 euro op het PlayStation Network zal Flower vooral de spelers aanspreken die gaan voor een korte, maar unieke spelervaring. Flower is een kort en gefocust game, maar het levert wel een unieke en relaxerende ervaring. Als je op zoek bent naar een tegengif voor de vele vervolggames en franchises op de markt, dan vormt Flower iets uniek. Een waardig game binnen zijn eigen categorie.

Gry OnLine (87 out of 100)

Flower jest wręcz frustrująco krótki, przy czym emocje te nie wynikają bynajmniej z poczucia zostania oszukanym. Gra w końcu kosztuje grosze – mniej więcej 30 złotych – i bez żadnych wątpliwości jest warta tej ceny. Boli raczej to, że tak świetny pomysł został zawarty w zaledwie kilku poziomach. Trudno mieć wyrzuty do twórców o takie podejście wobec zamierzonej spójności treści z formą oraz chęci stworzenia całości, która miałaby być czymś w rodzaju filmu czy opowiadania. Te formy przekazu muszą mieć początek, środek, zawierający dodatkowo kilka ukrytych smaczków i epilog. Podobnie zresztą jak każda recenzja.

GameZone (8.7 out of 10)

This is a beautiful game that is easy to pick up and play and should be accessible to anyone in the family. The game may falter in terms of replayability, but the levels have been designed to bring a true emotional feeling to the game through the use of lighting and music.

Meristation (8.5 out of 10)

La nueva obra de Thatgamecompany sigue la estela de su anterior flOw en cuánto a concepto y puesta en escena. Se trata de un juego original que se escapa de los cánones actuales y que puede generar opiniones que se encuentren a las antípodas las unas de las otras. Flower no se puede tomar como un juego al uso, porque no lo es y tampoco lo pretende. Se trata de una experiencia audiovisual especial, armónica y relajante. El objetivo final es fluir con el viento mientras se goza del piano, de los colores y del movimiento de la naturaleza.

Gaming Target (8.5 out of 10)

flower is one of the most simple-natured PlayStation Network games, so much so that it comes off as an experimental title rather than a full-fledged downloadable game. But, it's this type of game that differentiates the PS3 from anything on Xbox Live. This unconventional game movement is officially part of a growing trend on the PS3 and could be its key to success instead of a major "killer app" like Metal Gear Solid 4 or Killzone 2 as you'd expect.

GameTrailers (8.5 out of 10)

If you're looking for high-speed thrills and white-knuckled action, it should come as no great surprise that Flower is not your cup of tea. Yet its atypical approach is precisely what makes it so intriguing for those yearning for something off the beaten path. It's a short experience, with the six levels lasting a little over an hour, but it's one modestly priced release that will linger with you long after its bloom fades.

GamesCollection (8.5 out of 10)

Fl0wer è un titolo a cui non manca davvero niente: giocabilità, comparto tecnico, divertimento, arte e tanto relax. Un ottimo titolo per staccare dalla frenesia della maggior parte dei giochi odierni aiutando a stimolare la parte più interiore di un giocatore, quella parte in cui oltre al divertimento si cerca anche arte ed un significato profondo. Di giochi così ce ne vorrebbero di più… ma alla fine, forse, anche la rarità con cui vengono prodotti fa di loro dei prodotti speciali. Da avere assolutamente.

Tweakers.net (8.5 out of 10)

De pracht zit hem eerder in de manier waarop de natuur beweegt: de wind die het gras laat ruisen en de patronen die gevormd worden als een zone van kleur verschiet. Daarbij komt dat het spel voor acht euro kan worden gekocht via het PlayStation Network en die prijs maakt het gemis van een langere speelduur goed. Wat overblijft is een verbluffende game die overtuigend aantoont dat de Sixasis een prima besturingsmechanisme is. Flower roept vooral de vraag op waarom de bewegingsdetectie van de Sixaxis niet vaker wordt gebruikt. Koop Flower niet om een uitdagende game te spelen, op het scherpst van de snede. Nee, koop Flower om meegezogen te worden in een wereld die verrast, zowel in uiterlijke zin als op het punt van besturing.

Imperium Gier (8.3 out of 10)

Flower na pewno nie jest grą skierowaną do masowego odbiorcy. Oferuje jednak niesamowite emocje, których próżno szukać gdzie indziej. Potrzebujesz relaksu i wyciszenia? Oto najlepsza growa recepta.

Eurogamer.net (UK) (8 out of 10)

With all this in mind, it seems almost horrible to have to debate the price, but GBP 6.29 is the figure Sony's gone for and, although beautiful and engaging, Flower's brief, film-length experience would be better suited to something closer to flOw's original GBP 3.49, and that ultimately counts slightly against it.

GameSpot (8 out of 10)

At an asking price of $9.99 or £6.29 on the PlayStation Network, Flower will ultimately satisfy people who appreciate innovation more than a long-lasting experience. Flower is a small and focused game, especially in terms of length, but it certainly delivers a unique and relaxing experience. If you're looking for an antidote to the many sequels and franchises on the market, then Flower offers something unique and while it lasts, it's a great game in its own right.

Destructoid (8 out of 10)

Flower feels like the first step in a right direction -- much more so than any of thatgamecompany's previous releases -- but having played through it twice, I can't help but feel that it could have been a gargantuan leap.

Games TM (8 out of 10)

Flower shuns scores and combos: the only rewards here are visual, and challenge is virtually non-existent. Yet thanks to elegance and lyricism, Flower made us feel slightly richer and putting down the pad, even if it did take under two hours to complete. Switch off your brain, open up your heart, and let Flower work its magic.

Good Game (8 out of 10)

If I had any criticism, it’s that it’s pretty short. About 1 to 1.5 hours. But the main point is it’s good that people are challenging our ideas of what a game should be. They could’ve easily ruined it by attaching some cheesy story – but they chose to leave it unexplained, narratively AND practically. I think that makes for a more pure experience. 8/10 from me. And nice bloom effects...

Daily Game (8 out of 10)

Flower delivers on what it promises, and along the way you just might find yourself enjoying the ride again and again. Flower does not have a not a linear line from beginning to end; it's more like a favorite place or thing that you'll enjoy visiting time and time again when the moment calls for it.

Fragland.net (78 out of 100)

Flower is innovative, abstract and relaxing. It's only available through the Playstation Store and costs €7,99 which is quite a lot for such a short experience. Those that are seeking peace, however, usually spend tons of money on Yoga or meditation lessons so it's a matter of perception. Flower is the best-selling PSN game in February and these numbers are for once not injust. It remains a unique experience of which few examples will be found in the current game offering.

Factornews (7 out of 10)

Beau, frais, dépaysant, simple et efficace.

Gamestyle (7 out of 10)

Is there an overall theme here about our impact on nature in the world today? How we must bring back nature into our lives? What you take out of Flower is really your own choice, as an experience it is highly recommended if you have become bored with the majority of releases today. If you prefer your gaming to be a little left of centre than the latest chart topping release then this is for you.

Edge (7 out of 10)

The game is very short‭ – ‬although just long enough to suggest that the development team knew to quit before the concept palled‭ – ‬and there is limited incentive for repeat play.‭ ‬But if it is slight,‭ ‬then Flower compensates by being a very rare experience,‭ ‬both in terms of subject matter and the visual splendour with which it has been executed.

Teletext (7 out of 10)

Pretentious and restrictive, but also one of the most spectacular visual and aural experiences on PS3.

PlayStation Universe (6.5 out of 10)

Flower is set to divide the PS3 community. Some will love it, others will hate it and others still, like me, will think it’s alright. Unless further downloadable content is planned though, it’s not a game that you’ll revisit once you’ve had your two hours worth of fun. There's no reason to go back to Flower other than to show visitors how cool the Sixaxis controller is and how well it has been implemented. With a price of $9.99 USD (6.29 GBP), it’s cheap enough to warrant giving Flower a shot. Ultimately, it’s an evening worth of entertainment and you’ll probably be satisfied with the result. Just don’t expect to be talking about Flower or playing it beyond the next couple of weeks.

Good Game (4 out of 10)

Maybe I just don’t get what’s fun about being the wind… I know it’s only a small game, and the last two levels were much more interesting to me, but I just wanted more. I’m all for experimentation in games, and I can see what they are trying to do here, but when it comes down to it, I play a game to be entertained, not to make grass grow. Keep in mind, flower is very much open to interpretation and it’s just that my interpretation is 4/10 rubber chickens.

Darkstation N/A

More then anything I hope Flower is successful, we need more games that take such big risks like Flower. I think more then anything, Flower proves that you can still make a great game without being a FPS or a Sports game and that to me is quite refreshing. Although I would have liked to have seen a longer experience, if your in the market for new and unique experience look no further then Flower.