Daily Debate: How Have Older Zelda Titles Influenced Newer Ones?

Whilst many Zelda fans will be sinking their teeth into Age of Calamity over the holidays, I decided to go in a different direction entirely. Recently, I picked up a Wii and a copy of Skyward Sword with the intention of experiencing the game that may as well have “Marmite” plastered all over it. For a game that was released back in 2011, it is surprising how passionate players become when engaged in discussion about the merits and frustrations of Link’s adventures in Skyloft.

For myself, it has been an eye opener to see just how many elements of Skyward Sword have been expanded upon or brought up to date in Breath of the Wild. Taking Zelda’s costume as an example — does the blue cloth around her waist look familiar? Granted, the Champion’s clothing has been adapted and the symbolism along with it, but the influence is plain to see. The Sail Cloth that Link uses to dive from his Loftwing was taken a step further with the Paraglider. The stamina wheel and the use of insects to strengthen potions at the Bazaar have also been expanded upon. I might be late to the party with this, but after ten years it’s still nice to discover something new!

So, have you spotted how any older Zelda titles influence newer ones? Did you notice in The Wind Waker how Link can pick up an enemy’s sword and try it out? Or perhaps Zelda’s harp in Skyward Sword is an ode to the Harp of Ages in Oracle of Ages? Let us know in the comments below!