What is the greatest dungeon in the Zelda series? A simple question on the surface, but one with so many layers that it makes finding an answer almost impossible. How does one define ‘great’? Is it the dungeon layout? Perhaps the ways the dungeon item is implemented into the puzzles? Or is it the bombastic boss fight at the end? Surely the music and overall aesthetic play a part? And to be honest – what does being a dungeon in…
Realism in games can work as a sort of double-edged sword. On one hand, experiencing a game that focuses on realistic characters and environments can give you a feeling of immersion. On the other hand, when a game becomes steeped in realism, anything out of the ordinary can seem jarring. Things like magic and monsters need a great deal of explanation and backstory. The supernatural, by definition, is out of the ordinary, and would need some kind of tangible defense….
With the release of various Zelda manga over the past twenty years, it comes into question as to whether an anime will eventually accompany them. The prodigious amount of Zelda manga by comic book artists Akira Himekawa provides interesting takes on storylines such as Ocarina of Time and The Minish Cap, and often deepens the compelling fantasy of the series itself. Because of this, fans of the Zelda franchise and of anime alike are no doubt curious to see what it would…
Of the many games in which Nintendo’s flagship character Mario has been featured, one of most memorable is the flat, paper-like classic known as Paper Mario. This RPG title re-envisioned the long-running Mario franchise with creativity and charm, and fans of Nintendo have since wondered what such a re-imagining would look like for The Legend of Zelda. Well, look no further than this recent fan-animated short from YouTube channel 64 Bits. Various artists harnessed the child-like charm of the Paper…
Since late 2016, publisher VIZ Media has been releasing special “Legendary Edition” versions of Akira Himekawa’s popular The Legend of Zelda manga series. These deluxe editions — which are available for the Ocarina of Time, Oracle of Ages & Seasons, Majora’s Mask & A Link to the Past, The Minish Cap & Phantom Hourglass, and Four Swords adaptations — have featured new covers and colored art pieces by Himekawa. Fans who have not yet picked up these Legendary Editions now have…
Highlights of the Zelda series, such as Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild, stand as staples of the franchise. As a result, however, they tend to outshine other gems, as other games are pushed to the “back burner” and regarded with less value. Whether judging based on nostalgia, quality, accessibility, or attention in the media, some Zelda games tend to fall through the cracks. I would say that Spirit Tracks or The Minish Cap never quite get the…
It looks like Medicom Toy is back at it with three new Zelda figures releasing this September. This time, the figures, each Link, come from The Minish Cap, Ocarina of Time (Adult) and Breath of the Wild, each taking a stance from select box art for their respective games. In addition, they are a continuation of the “Link Ultra Detail” series. These figures will run 1,200 Yen, or about $12 USD. What do you think of these figures? Will you be…
We’ve all heard that familiar jingle when Link plunders a chest in a dungeon. Ready? Da-na-na-naaaaa! Of the three items: compass, map and boss key, most are hoping to find the map first — and quickly. For our daily debate today, I’d like you to consider which game in the Legend of Zelda series has the best dungeon maps? For the purpose of this debate, let’s also assume you have found the compass as well. Not having the best sense…
There are many recurring races in the Zelda series: the often elegant and magical Zora, the proud and stubborn Gorons, and the childlike and innocent Koroks. Of course, then there are some one-offs, like the Minish or the Mogma. However, there’s another race that’s very prevalent in few games, but oddly absent in others. I’m talking about the Deku Scrubs. First appearing in Ocarina of Time and then playing a major role in Majora’s Mask, the Deku Scrubs have seldom…
Each Zelda game is unique in it’s own way, adding it’s own twist on the mechanics or looks of the classic legend. Ocarina of Time saw it actualized into 3D, The Wind Waker allowed players to set sail, and Spirit Tracks took the adventure across rails. Skyward Sword in particular enabled Link to soar above the clouds of Hyrule. As Skyward Sword is at the beginning of the timeline, it is implied that Skyloft’s residents eventually move to the surface…
