10 Obscure Gaming Clues That Explained Confusing Moments
4. What Is Wander & Mono's Relationship? - Shadow Of The Colossus
The Confusing Moment
Ever since Shadow of the Colossus was first announced, fans have speculated about the precise nature of the relationship between protagonist Wander and the woman he is attempting to save, Mono.
Many naturally assumed that the two were lovers, though this isn't ever confirmed or even really implied in the game itself. And so, what exactly is the nature of their dynamic?
The Clue
A fascinating clue is provided on the game's box art.
The western box art for both the original game and its 2018 remake refer to Wander's quest as one powered by "companionship and undying love" where he attempts to rescue his "love," in effect implying a romantic love rather than familial (like, say, his sister).
But the original Japanese box art reportedly only refers to Mono as "少女" or "girl," without any overt suggestion whatsoever that she and Wander are lovers.
As such, it seems that Wander and Mono's vague dynamic was made a little more implicit for the U.S. box art during the translation process.
Given that the Japanese box art is presumably going to have been fully authorised by game director Fumito Ueda, we can probably defer to that as meaning that Wander and Mono aren't romantic lovers, but simply mean a lot to each other, whether in a familial sense or as long-time friends.