See the Story of Majora’s Mask in a New Light with this Illustrated Retelling

Majora’s Mask has established itself as one of the most memorable Zelda games to date, due in part to its strikingly macabre narrative. Video game historian Mama Robotnik marvels at the game for its uniqueness and departure from a typical Zelda storyline. For this reason, Robotnik set down a longform essay reinterpreting the title’s story based solely on in-game lore. With accompanying quotes and art provided by over a dozen talented fans, the story of Majora’s Mask is masterfully reproduced.

I’ll provide a framework summary of the piece, but it’s really a composition all its own that’s best enjoyed in its original form; it reads like a walk through a gallery, due to its structure of pictures accompanying quotes illuminated by descriptive text.

The essay begins by filling in the blanks of Majora’s origins and how the Happy Mask Salesman came to be in possession of its mask. It then details Skull Kid’s background and Link’s journey to Termina before recounting the events of the game itself, inferring additional historical and psychological insights. Some of the most memorable quests and dungeons are included in the retelling, as well as fascinating descriptions of the final battle that detail Majora’s thoughts during its transformations as well Link’s during his time as the Fierce Deity. The story is topped off with a speculative account in which Skull Kid hops dimensions to aid Link in Twilight Princess.

I’ve recently considered replaying some older Zelda games, so reading this essay was a nice reminder of what’s so fabulous about this title. Majora’s Mask leaves a lot to the imagination when it comes to Termina’s history and who (or what) Majora is, so an endeavor like this– that seeks to fill the gaps in not only the game’s story, but its connection to the series at large– is admirable. It’s also fun to poke further holes in, and can inspire alternative interpretations. The unanswered questions in Majora’s Mask may never be fully put to rest, but its speculative nature is one reason for the game’s continued relevance.

As mentioned, dozens of artists contributed to the essay’s illustrations. All artists are credited underneath their contributions in the essay’s original publication, so be sure to check out their work. I’ve also included a handful of eye-catching pieces in the gallery below.

Did you like the essay? Are there any lore assumptions that you disagree with? Which illustrations are your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments!

Source: Kotaku
Header Image by: Orioto

Alexis S. Anderson

Alexis S. Anderson is a Senior Editor at Zelda Dungeon who joined the writing team in November, 2014. She has a JD from the UCLA School of Law and is pursuing a career in Entertainment and Intellectual Property Law. She grew up in the New Jersey suburbs with her parents, twin brother, and family shih-tzu.