Weigh the Merits of Linear and Nonlinear Dungeons in Zelda With This Analysis Video
Posted on September 01 2020 by Alexis S. Anderson
There is always talk about the linearity of Zelda games. What’s less talked about, though, is the linearity of individual dungeons. But this may very well make or break one’s enjoyment of a temple or dungeon, and for good reason. Linearity can make a dungeon simpler and give it more forward momentum, while nonlinearity can up the difficulty and encourage greater exploration or backtracking. YouTube’s Monster Maze analyzed this aspect of Zelda dungeon design in a recent video, and discussed how some dungeons fall flat while others approach their respective structures in innovative ways.
Monster Maze examines the structure of Ocarina of Time’s Water Temple and Shadow Temple to contrast one of the series’ most complex nonlinear dungeons with one of its most strictly linear. He talks about the main dungeon item, central hub rooms, the unique linear structure of Twilight Princess’ Temple of Time and Snowpeak Ruins, and the many dungeons that operate with a mixed structure.
If you enjoyed this video, Monster Maze has a handful of other Zelda theories and discussion videos on his channel you can check out, as well as other gaming related content. You can also support him on Patreon or follow him on Twitter.
Is your favorite dungeon linear or nonlinear? Which style do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!
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.
