Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Review

Who can argue with this logic:
EVERY ZELDA GAME EVER MADE WAS A CLASSIC... well everybody can. There have been some pretty trashy Zelda Games but then again, what about the good ones... Ocarina, Link to the Past, all classics in there own right. However, this new Zelda game makes all of that seem like nothing, because it is made in such a way that you'll want to play it again...

First of all, most people would have been thinking, 'those graphics are crap, bring back the REAL Zelda'. This new graphical style, it looks and moves much really well in motion. The effects look absolutely amazing and the bosses are fiercely cool in this new cel-shaded style. Although the graphics will chase some people off, TRUE ZELDA FANS would know this to be a classic from the off.

The storyline is simple, Ganon has returned and the memory of Hyrule is finished. After Aryll is snatched away visciously by a bird, it's up to a new link, centuries in the future to save her. The storyline reaches all new levels of depth towards the middle and will have some people crying at the sad thoughts that race through your mind as you watch the movie scenes.

The gameplay comes complete with Dungeon Maps, Boss Keys and off course, new items. The grappling hook is one of your most powerful weapons while the hookshot makes it's triumphant return while you're in the Earth Temple. It plays exactly the same as Ocarina, with some improvements. Link is more flexible, he can do more climbs and stuff. The camera is infinitely better than before and the puzzles require you to use your brain and test ALL of your items. The great sea is the 'hyrule/termina field' of this game and is massive. They're loads of islands to explore, characters to meet and mini-games to play.

But that doesn't explain why this is called 'Wind Waker'. The Wind Waker is a special stick (like the Ocarina of Time) that conducts different tunes. There are only six but they are so immaginitive. The Wind's Requiem allows you to change the direction of the wind. The command melody lets you take control of objects nearby. It's crazy in a brilliant and Zelda kind of way.

The music, also of high standard will have some Zelda nuts crying. It's fresh and masterful and adds atmosphere to whatever area you're in. The Tower of the God's music is particularly effective and reminds you of the spirit temple (a lot).

This unique game will provide an experience that you'll want to have again and again.

Graphics 97% 'ExCELant'
The graphics are both great and add expression to every thing. Even the small effects like footprints in the sand and dripping water after you've just been swimming are fab.

Sound/Music 96% 'Godly Gold'
The music is absolutely terrific and adds emotion to the place it's in. It's never flat or boring, it's always just right!

Gameplay 100% 'PERFECT'
It's SO GOOD. At the start you don't know what to expect. But this combines the classic Zelda elements with brand new ones and as a result the gameplay is smooth, varied and fantastic!

Value 94% 'Sadly quite short'
Sadly, the game iteself is a bit short. But it'll take you LONG to complete because of the difficuly level. Theres even a second play through with SLIGHTLY ALTERED events and new costumes for Link and Aryll.

Overall Score: 97%

This review was added on 25th January 2005 by nGaming user ProReviewer.