Aonuma Interview On Puzzle Solving and Gimmicks

Puzzles in the Legend of Zelda series have always been a significant component in its gameplay, especially in the more modern entries. In a recent interview with Nintendo’s Japanese website, Aonuma answered questions about the direction of the puzzle-solving aspects in Zelda for the Wii U. He spoke out about which types of puzzles he prefers, standard puzzles or ones that involve a “trick.”

Hit the jump to read the interview!

“It is said that one of the interesting things about ‘Zelda’ is the ‘nazotoki’ (nazotoki literally means ‘solving a puzzle or riddle’). Whenever I think “solving a puzzle”, I just want it to not be too difficult or overly complicated. It would be better to use a ‘gimmick’ or ‘trick’. That might be better. Various gimmicks are hiding in the world of Link’s adventures, so getting to discover it yourself and thinking about things such as ‘Can I use this?’ or ‘I wonder if this can be used,’ and you also think when you see a certain reaction in the world. We love this kind of continuous discovery, and we find it very fun.”

Aonuma states that he prefers puzzles that rely on “gimmicks” or a trick rather than those that are complicated or difficult. In other words, I think he wants players to experience puzzles that make them think outside of the box, such as the eye puzzle in Skyward Sword. This can be compared to a more complex puzzle such as the ice block puzzle in Twilight Princess.

What do you think? Do you prefer the standard sliding-and-switching puzzle or one that makes you think outside the box? Leave your comments below!

Source: Nintendo News (via Nintendo Everything)