If you can get on board with the polarising controls and aging design this could be the finest Zelda game available
The visuals are stunning, the world looking bright, vibrant and full of character. The inhabitants are brimming with charm while the enemies are varied and interesting. This goes double for the character around the central plot, which as expected plays second fiddle to the game play but is still interesting enough to encourage progression.
The decision for a predominantly motion controlled experience may grate after extended play sessions. Substituting a button press for a wave of the controller is obviously not as responsive and while the controls work well enough, it leaves combat open to more user error that will only get worse with fatigue.
Perhaps the inclusion of alternate control methods would have offered a more enjoyable experience for a larger audience, for example lining up Link's sword using motion controls but executing an attack with the press of a button rather than the often arduous and inaccurate shake of the controller.
Flying is your main method of commute this time around and it's a much more freeing experience than in some of the past instalments. However the skies can be a little sparse and uneventful adding little to the exploits, the real fun is still firmly on the ground and in the varied and fun dungeons.
An overall win, the slightly dated design may feel like going through the motions for veteran players and the polarising control scheme could have been better considered to accommodate a wider audience. But for those that get on board with everything this game has to offer, it could prove to be the greatest Zelda game available.
7/10
Pros
- Mixes up some of the fundamental game play design for a more streamlined and focused experience. Links tools are more useful throughout the adventure which is an overdue and welcome addition to the series
- Has a superb atmosphere and an abundance of charm that few other games can match. The increased focus on quests helps flesh out the individual inhabitants and adds a nice distraction for those who choose to take part.
Cons
- The traditional core game play is showing its age, other games in the action adventure genre have demonstrated superior design.
- Controls require effort and attention to achieve what a button press could pull off with more consistent and accurate results for players not wanting to put in the extra concentration required and who generally want a more relaxing experience.
Release date: 2011