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Journey

Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox Series X|S, Mac, PlayStation 4 • 2020

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Quick resume

Explore the ancient, mysterious world of Journey as you soar above ruins and glide across sands to discover its secrets.

Global score

94/100

Genres

Adventure, Indie, Role-playing (RPG), Simulator

Pros

  • Beautiful art and music
  • Unique anonymous co-op
  • Emotional and immersive experience
  • Exploration and discovery
  • Short and replayable

Cons

  • Very short gameplay length
  • Limited communication options
  • Some technical issues in pc port
  • Lack of traditional gameplay depth
  • Low player population at times

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have freedom to explore, choose pace, and interact with environment and companions with minimal constraints."

  • Competence
    2

    "Gameplay involves light puzzle solving and platforming with some skill elements, but overall accessible and not highly challenging."

  • Competition
    -5

    "No competitive elements; focus is on cooperative and personal experience without rankings or comparisons."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players often replay the game multiple times to experience different journeys and discover secrets."

  • Cooperation
    5

    "Core mechanic involves cooperating silently with anonymous players to progress and share the journey."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players can explore hidden areas and discover secrets; some freedom in how to approach exploration and interaction."

  • Domination
    -5

    "Interactions with other players are equal and supportive, no power or superiority expressed."

  • Escapism
    5

    "Strong emotional and immersive experience providing escape from real life through beautiful world and music."

  • Expectation
    -5

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by intrinsic interest and emotional connection."

  • Experimenting
    2

    "Players explore mechanics and secrets, experimenting with flight and interaction, though within a designed framework."

  • Exploration
    5

    "Exploration of vast, beautiful environments and hidden areas is a key motivation."

  • Expression
    3

    "Players can customize their scarf length and interact with others through nonverbal signals, allowing personal expression."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Set in a mystical desert world with spiritual and symbolic themes, offering an imaginative fictional experience."

  • Fellowship
    5

    "Strong sense of community and connection through shared journey with anonymous players."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players learn game mechanics, flight techniques, and uncover story elements through repeated play."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and continuous engagement during the journey."

  • Intimacy
    4

    "Emotional bonding with anonymous companions through shared silent communication and mutual support."

  • Leadership
    2

    "Players sometimes lead or guide companions, but interactions are collaborative and balanced."

  • Progression
    3

    "Collecting scarf extensions and unlocking abilities provides a sense of progression."

  • Relaxation
    4

    "Calming, meditative experience with soothing music and gentle pacing."

  • Sensation
    4

    "Beautiful visuals and evocative soundtrack provide strong sensory and emotional stimulation."

  • Status
    -4

    "No social status or recognition mechanics; focus is on anonymous shared experience."

  • Story
    4

    "Narrative is conveyed through environmental storytelling, music, and player interpretation."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some light puzzle solving and timing challenges, but overall straightforward gameplay."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Moments of suspense and tension occur, especially in storm and guardian sections."

  • Value
    3

    "Highly praised for emotional and artistic value despite short playtime."

  • Violence
    -5

    "No violence; gameplay focuses on exploration and cooperation."

  • Survival
    1

    "Some avoidance of threats and hazards, but low risk overall."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026