Ecco
A bottlenose dolphin and the playable hero, tasked with protecting Earth and restoring the natural order.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Directional Pad | Swim and navigate |
|---|---|
A | Emit sonar |
B | Swim forward or accelerate |
C | Use Ecco’s attack |
Control notes
Button functions can vary between regional manuals and control configurations.
How it plays
How does Ecco: The Tides of Time play?
The player views Ecco from a side-scrolling perspective and guides him through underwater stages. Objectives include finding routes, activating mechanisms, communicating with creatures, collecting items, defeating enemies, and reaching the stage goal.
Ecco can swim in multiple directions, emit sonar, ram hostile creatures, and use special abilities gained during the adventure. The campaign moves between themed areas with different hazards and puzzle rules, while transformations provide access to otherwise unreachable routes. Health and air management make positioning and exploration important.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play Ecco: The Tides of Time?
Explore each area carefully before committing to a route. Use sonar frequently to identify creatures, objects, passages, and objectives that are easy to miss.
Keep a safe supply of air in mind, and avoid unnecessary collisions with enemies. Learn the timing of each transformation and use open water to build speed before attacking.
- Search side paths for health, air, and progression items.
- Use friendly sea creatures as clues when a route is unclear.
- In maze-like stages, note landmarks and return paths rather than swimming randomly.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
The Asterite
A vast ancient oceanic life-form whose knowledge and powers are important to Ecco’s journey.
Big Blue
An important whale character who assists Ecco during the adventure.
The Vortex
An alien species that threatens Earth and serves as the primary opposing force.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Sonar is useful for both communication and discovering hidden interaction points.
- 2
Build momentum before ramming tougher enemies.
- 3
Do not leave an area until you have checked alternate passages and air sources.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A memorable Genesis sequel with beautiful atmosphere, ambitious world-building, and challenging exploration.
Its originality and music stand out, but the maze-heavy stages and strict survival demands can be frustrating.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0