Daily Debate: Should a Zelda Game Ever Have A “Reimagining”?

Definitions can be tricky. Terms like “remake”, “remaster”, or “reimagining” often result in maddeningly futile semantic arguments. I think most people at least agree on that last one, though. A “reimagining” typically refers to a re-release (hey, there’s another) of a game that carries over the original’s premise, but makes major changes to the game’s core dynamics. A couple of prominent examples in recent history would be Resident Evil 2 and Resident Evil 3, released in 2019 and 2020 respectively. While these games utilize the characters, setting, and general conflict of their source material, they also make dramatic alterations to the perspective, gameplay, and progression. With so many Zelda re-releases, it’s surprising that none of them have ever done this. The question is: should that happen? Should an existing Zelda title ever get “reimagined”?

To try and avoid the semantic quagmire described above, let me explain what I mean. Without exception, re-releases of Zelda games have sought to update visuals, implement quality of life features, and improve on controls. They’ve all made a specific effort to avoid tinkering with the game’s core content or progression. As an example, Ocarina of Time 3D is essentially just Ocarina of Time with better graphics (grumble grumble), gyroscopic aiming, mappable iron boots, and an ephemeral boss rush feature. If Ocarina of Time were truly reimagined, perhaps Death Mountain would have its map reworked and expanded, with many named Gorons, a temperature system and a redesigned Dodongo’s Cavern. Getting the Goron Ruby from Darunia would still be the goal, but the act of getting to it would be a fundamentally different experience.

What do you think? Should a Zelda game get an overhaul reimagining? Which one? Let is know in the comments below!

 

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