Even though people often use video games for entertainment or to escape the world around them, it's rare that a video game puts one in a state of complete relaxation. Have you ever listened to a relaxation tape? One that attempts to dig you out of a rut and improve your hectic life? If it had no effect on you, discard that, and boot up Flower.

This downloadable PSN game, is a unique gameplay experience that shouldn't simply be dismissed because of its lack of violence. Even though I typically like artsy games, I wondered if game critics were exaggerating when they called Flower an "experience".

With motion controls intended for guiding a petal, I wondered how such a simple experience could captivate an individual. "Does Flower contain actual gameplay?" "Is there a story?" "Are you on a linear rollercoaster ride throughout the entire game?"

These were all questions floating around in my head before I actually played Flower. Thankfully, these concerns were addressed, and I actually walked away quite impressed with the beautiful, but brief experience that is Flower.

With Flower, you hold your controller and tilt it gently to the side to guide petals through each level. Each of the game's six levels contains a breeze that directs you to your destination, and you simply have to guide your petal into various types of flower that litter each course.

Initially, these flowers aren't impressive, but once they receive your magic touch, they blossom into something beautiful. Their color lights up the world around you and positively affects the environment.

The initial levels are full of lush green hills, and your surroundings allow you to really breathe in the beauty of nature. Some areas are dark, but gentling touching flowers brings new light and color to each area.

You don't have to touch every single flower, but if you're someone who wants to obtain trophies, you have the option of turning around to collect flowers you've missed. Personally, I wasn't concerned with trivial objectives, so I decided to proceed and experience all that is Flower.

The early courses are all quite beautiful, but Flower makes a distinct change part way through the game. Environments that were previously vibrant, are now replaced by dark, decaying environments that have been touched by humans. Without entirely spoiling the experience, much of Flower deals with the conflict between nature and technology, and this is done without any words.

It's quite ironic that this is being done in video game format, but I found the approach to this tale interesting. Games like Final Fantasy VII and Okami certainly touched on environmentalism before, but Flower took a unique approach that involved no dialogue. The player develops his impressions simply from experiencing the environment around him.

I don't want to reveal what Flower's conclusion suggests, but it's likely that it'll impact you.

Flower's visuals and relaxing play style aren't the only things that add emotion to the experience--its music plays an equally important role.

I had previously witnessed some Flower videos, but none contained the game's music, which I consider to be an essential ingredient of the experience. The game's tranquil and somber pieces really add to your experience with Flower. Many of the game's tunes reminded me of the beautiful pieces found in Final Fantasy X's soundtrack.

Flower is another perfect example of why music should not be swept aside in favor of voice acting. Both types of audio can add emotion to an experience, but music makes you feel in a way that is different than simply hearing what another person has to say.

Flower isn't a perfect game--after all, it takes less than two hours to complete, but it's so unique that I consider it a must-own title for those who have a PS3.

For those who don't consider games art, or prefer twitch gameplay, Flower might not be appealing, but players looking for something different might want to give Flower a shot.

If you're having a rough day, or are feeling as calm as a Spring breeze, I recommend trying flower. Even if you find it simple, the ending will likely leave you feeling rejuvenated.

Score: 9.0

Pros:

• Gorgeous visuals
• It's a work of art
• Guiding petals with motion control feels relaxing
• The best use I've seen yet of the PS3 motion controller
• Beautiful music
• 'Nature Vs. Technology' plot that is told without words
• Proof that great video games don't have to be violent

Cons:

• It's extremely short (it clocks in at less than two hours)
• The gameplay lacks depth
• The inclusion of more levels would have been nice
• Many people will probably pass over Flower, because of its lack of violence