ICO ^{(PlayStation 2)}

Hint: Pillar Movement

The pillars in the Shadow Queen's throne room can be moved. This makes the last scramble for the magic sword easier. Simply hide behind one of the two pillars in the room and hold down CIRCLE. You can drag the pillars all the way back until you hit the first set of stairs in the room.




When you get the the point when the sword is deflected really far away, simply hide behind the right column, and drag it backwards until it stops. You shoud have no problem retrieving the sword this way. You still have to time it so that you avoid the Queen's attacks, but they are easy to avoid. Grab the sword, and then go stab the Queen.

Beating the Final Boss: Spoiler!

When fighting the queen, the energy sword is paramount. Whenever you are holding it, her shadow attacks cannot touch you. If you take a hit without it, however, you will turn to ash. The way to beat the queen is to hack at her shield with the sword. Once you hit it, the sword will fly from your hand and you'll have to retrieve it. Immediately after hitting the shield, run behind one of two statues at the center of the room. The shadow attack will pass you by.

From this position of safety, scan the room for your discarded sword. The first time it is rejected, it will end up in the right side of the room. The next three times, you will find it on the left side of the room. After four hits, the queen's shield will drop. This time, your sword ends up well behind the statue. Hide behind the right statue. As the shadow passes, you will notice a safe zone on the ground-- a kind of oval. Get as far back in the safe zone as possible. As soon as the shadow wave passes, head straight back from the statue and run to the sword. You'll grab it just as her next wave reaches you. With the sword in hand, stride to the front of the room and strike the final blow.

Second Ending: Spoiler!

After you beat the queen, wait until after the credits roll. Another cut scene will play, then you will take control of Ico on the beach. Move far down the coast to the left and you will find a surprise.