Ecco: The Tides of Time is the sequel to the original game which came out on the Mega Drive back in 1994. Does this game successfully hold up any water though, let’s find out.

The Tides of Time is a direct sequel to the original, bringing back the usual cast of characters. The Vortex Queen, who was presumed dead, is back to reap havoc on the ocean and Ecco, the dolphin protagonist. The story is a bit sketchy, and much of it won’t be revealed in the beginning. Players will control Ecco, the lone fish with special powers and abilities. Abilities such as communicating with other fishes, and using a lightning speed boost that’ll help players breeze through sink holes in the ocean floor. It’s a neat concept, but we wished Ecco could do a little more.

As for gameplay, The Tides of Time revolves around ocean exploration in a free-roaming fashion. Players might be confused when taking on this sequel, as the game seemingly wants to challenge you by placing you in the pit of the underwater world without any specific mission or objective. Since the game doesn’t give you much clues on your mission, players will find themselves wandering the ocean trying to find out what to do. The campaign lacks direction, leaving nothing but a tedious adventure of back tracking and vague conversations with other dolphins. The depressing background music also doesn’t help bring any excitement.

Ecco: The Tides of Time is a smooth running, visually appealing adventure game. The concept of the game isn’t anything to brag about, and taking on this adventure will definitely make you wish you were not a dolphin.

Overall Score: 6.5/10