This time final yr, the considered having a brand new top-down Zelda in our arms felt like a pipe dream. However then Echoes of Knowledge got here alongside and reaffirmed the concept that the way forward for the collection may not be an solely open-world, 3D affair.
However our minds are actually drifting to the franchise’s different model, one we’ve not seen utilized in isolation since Zelda II (and even then not totally). If Nintendo is open to totally different recreation views, is it time for an additional side-scrolling Zelda?
This thought got here to thoughts whereas taking part in by way of the princess’ newest journey. Very like Hyperlink’s Awakening, Echoes of Knowledge frequently switches to this side-on model, limiting the hero’s actions to 4 clean-cut instructions as if reworked into a regular platformer.
Not like Grezzo’s final remake (and the neglected Oracle video games), nevertheless, Echoes of Knowledge returns to the side-scrolling view with a a lot greater frequency. This is not an occasional gimmick, however slightly one thing that pops up time and time once more. An early dungeon flips to this attitude in virtually each room, together with a climactic boss battle that takes place solely from the facet.
The collection has flipped issues to the two-dimensional realm previously and you possibly can even class a few of A Hyperlink Between Worlds’ painting-based puzzles as in line with the model. However, up to now, solely Zelda II: The Journey of Hyperlink has been courageous sufficient (silly?) to go all out on the side-on view — and that was method again in 1987.
Maybe it is right down to that recreation’s standing as one of many collection’ decrease factors (though its popularity has improved in latest instances), its punishing issue, or Hyperlink’s goofy little run, nevertheless it’s unusual that Nintendo by no means returned to the side-scrolling model, bar the odd cameo right here and there, after that rocky begin. If Echoes of Knowledge exhibits us one factor, it is that Zelda deserves extra starring roles. But when it exhibits us two issues, it is that side-scrolling Hyrule actually works.
We cherished the side-on strategy utilized in Jabul Ruins and Hyperlink’s Awakening’s Eagle Tower boss battle is a recreation spotlight with its perspective-shifting motion. Is it time that Nintendo had one other crack at a completely 2D journey?
It isn’t just like the 2D model is being rejected by the trendy gamer. Final yr, Tremendous Mario Bros. Surprise took us again to the glory days of Tremendous Mario World. All discussions of rendered hair follicle density and sensible climate methods went out the window after we had been confronted with a superbly animated, miraculously designed mission from left to proper. Who’s to say Zelda could not do the identical?
In bite-sized chunks, Echoes of Knowledge has demonstrated what this might appear like. Early caves had us fixing issues with out the privilege of the z-axis and they’re simply as puzzle-y as one thing with added depth. We have taken on enemies, tackled bosses, and overcome platforming challenges on this method, too. Nintendo’s teasing that it is aware of the right way to make a completely side-scrolling Zelda recreation, it is simply reluctant to go complete hog.
However what do you suppose? Would you wish to see one other totally side-scrolling Zelda title sooner or later, or is that this model higher left within the collection’ previous? You may share your reply within the following ballot after which take to the feedback to elucidate your alternative.
What did you vote for? Shuffle sideways into the feedback and tell us.
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Jim got here to Nintendo Life in 2022 and, regardless of his insistence that The Minish Cap is the very best Zelda recreation and his unwavering love for the Star Wars prequels (sure, actually), he has continued to jot down information and options on the positioning ever since.
