Daily Debate: Is Fancy Swordplay Necessary In The Legend Of Zelda?

One of the things that I enjoy about the Zelda series is taking down enemies with my sword. In our Daily Debate today, I’d like you to consider the following: Is fancy swordplay necessary in The Legend of Zelda?

In Link’s Awakening, there is something very satisfying about watching an Octorok fly across the screen and disappear in a puff of smoke! To begin with, spamming a single button is enough to get the job done, and you can plod along with your quest quite nicely. There comes a point, however, when the difficulty level takes an upturn and more powerful moves are required. The trusted spin attack is an excellent sword technique for dealing punishment to a group of enemies. In Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, the midair downward stab is an essential move to defeat some of the toughest monsters, and really helps in a pinch. This is basic swordplay in the Zelda world, which many players will be familiar with.

At the other end of the scale, we have the hidden skills from Twilight Princess. Techniques such as the Helm Splitter and Back Slice need precision and skill to pull off. It gives the player options to finish enemies in impressive ways and mix up the combat dynamic. But did you actually make use of them? Some boss battles call upon you to use a specific technique, and remind you that alternatives do exist. But I must admit, in basic battles, I prefer using my shield to stun and then follow-through with the Master Sword!

So, should the game designers go to all that effort with fancy swordplay? Or is it more important for Zelda to give equal focus to weaponry, magic and gadgets? Whatever your thoughts on the subject, sound off in the comments below!