Beyond Good And Evil - Hillys Bay

2003 | Ubisoft | GC, PC, PS2, Xbox

If you still haven’t played Beyond Good And Evil then you’ve wasted your life thus far. Sorry, but it’s true. It’s tempting to think that games so often cited as undervalued classics can’t really be as good as their reputation suggests, but BG&E delivers on all counts, and playing it should be legally enforcible upon all. It’s beautiful, intelligent, funny, and plays like a dream, and nowhere does its overall quality make a statement of intent more strongly than the first time you get to properly take in the game’s overworld.

A lot of the game's beginning takes place indoors or underground. You get some time out in the open air of course, but it usually happens in darkness or is taken up with fighting bosses. There is a point however, when the the game's early scuffles and complications are all dealt with and for the first time you get to see Hillys' open waters in glorious, sun-kissed daylight. And you're free to explore it all at your own pace in your trusty hovercraft.

It's a brilliantly liberating and calming experience after the pace of the game's intro. The pressure's off. There are no monsters to fight and no time limits, and all you have to do is whatever you want. Admire the scenery as the sun glints off the water and birds gently call overhead. Go and meet the neighbours. Explore the hidden caves and coves dotted around the picturesque landscape. Even relax and take some photos... It's one of the best 'reward' sections in gaming and the kind of place you'd book a holiday to if it was real.