Genre: Action-adventure | Players: 1 | Developer: Nintendo
The cel-shaded, GameCube entry in the legacy series.
Gameplay:
Largely unchanged from previous 3D entries in the series as Link still controls the same with lock-on targeting and auto jump. Combat is slightly tweaked with new options like parrying and taking enemy weapons. Sailing is the new mode of travel with the use of a conductor's baton that controls the wind. Link uses it to sail to a variety of islands on this adventure. Many don't like the sailing, but i found it quite enjoyable as the waves, music and various sea-faring enemies made the ocean feel more alive than the empty fields of other instalments.
Graphics:
Bemoaned at release, the cel-shading art-style has proven one of the game's best features. Characters are more expressive, colors are vibrant and overall very beautiful.
Sound:
The soundtrack is comprised of mostly wind instruments with an Irish influence that give a relaxed, tropical island feel. Very apropos and a great listen.
Story:
Link's sister, Aryll, is kidnapped on his birthday by a giant bird, so he takes to the seas in pursuit to rescue her.
Buyer's Guide:
Easily found, but the Zelda pedigree carries a premium. Even used copies go for around $30 which is twice the going rate for other games.
4 Triumph Forks out of 5
2 comments:
I hated the empty seas and the tiny little islands but despite that the Zelda formula was as fun as ever. I liked the addition of musical notes to the sword lunges, kicking ass meant you had your own accompanying theme tune. I agree about the cel-shading, it hasn't aged a day, it's like playing a cartoon. Yup, 4 sploosh out of 5 from me, too.
One more recommendation for the soundtrack. Such a great listen.
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