Daily Debate: Were The Changes In Majora’s Mask 3D Too Much?

Majora’s Mask is undoubtedly one of the best 3D Zelda titles to date and as such was highly anticipated to receive the Ocarina of Time 3DS treatment years before its eventual release. Though Nintendo was coy about hinting at its development status in the years between Ocarina of Time 3DS and A Link Between Worlds, eventually we received the news many had been waiting for. Finally, in February of 2015, the remake was released. Unlike with its predecessor however, Majora’s Mask received mixed reviews from hardcore Zelda fans.

One of the key differences between a remaster and a remake is that remakes tend to change gameplay or mechanics of the original title in addition to upgrading a game graphically. While Ocarina of Time focused on smaller changes that had major impact such as the completely renovated inventory system, Majora’s Mask went a step further and brought more than just quality of life adjustments. From introducing a completely new version of the Bomber’s Notebook (adding things like a complete NPC schedule tracker as well as quest updates) to altering how the Song of Double Time works, Majora’s Mask 3DS sometimes feels like a whole new game. Due to this, many fans are divided on whether Nintendo went too far with their alterations.

While most praise simple changes like the Bomber’s Notebook, many fans also despise changes such as adding a Corruption Eye to every boss as its major weak point as well as changing almost every boss fight to play out either slightly differently (Goht) or almost completely different (Twinmold). While it is assumed that Nintendo made such changes to emphasize or highlight Majora’s corruptive influence on the world, a significant portion of the fanbase reacted to this change with dismay, as the reigning opinion is that it makes the game much easier. Personally, I liked the changes due to the added story implications, but I simultaneously understand where people are coming from on the difficulty side. That being said, Goht is still a pain in the butt sometimes, even if he is one of the best bosses.

With this in mind, what say you Zelda fans? Were the changes in Majora’s Mask too much, not enough, or just right? Let us know in the comments below!