Review

Background:
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is the latest in a long series of The Legend of Zelda games. It is also the first Zelda game for the GameCube (unless you count the Bonus Disc: Oot: Master Quest). Prior to the game's release, the most talked about aspect of the game was the controversial "Cel Shading" animation technique. This technique, which lends itself to a more "cartoony" feel than a "realistic" feel, upset many Zelda enthusiasts because Link (Zelda's main character) looks very different from previous versions. He is much more rounded, bright, and simplified. Despite this earlier concern for the graphical quality of the game, we're happy to report that the graphics are spectacular. And, it's not that they are superior to anything we've seen before, it's that the game and the graphics go hand-in-hand to create the most vividly detailed and eye-catching virtual world we've ever played in. All that being said, let's get into the nitty-gritty of the game.

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Gameplay:
Unlike previous Zelda games where you go from place to place by running or, on your trusty steed, Epona, in Wind Waker you sail from island to island in your sail boat (King of the Red Lions). This format will be familiar to those of you who have played, Pirates: The Legend of Black Kat.

You begin your quest on the appropriately named, Outset Island. Your sister, Aryll, is kidnapped by an evil bird who is working for Ganon, the evil guy in Zelda games. As you might imagine, it is now your job to go out in search of your sister.

As you sail from island to island, you pick up hints and clues as to the whereabouts of your sister and about the lore of previous Zelda legends. As you gather various information, you'll find yourself investigating different islands and discovering helpful items and weapons.

The game is a good mix between linear and non-linear. Sure, there are certain dungeons that you have to go in before others and certain items that you need in order to do "x" task. However, at any point you can sail the ocean or explore non-essential islands in search of powerups or simply to entertain yourself.

There is an excellent map/compass system in WW. As you sail, you can view your Sea Chart at anytime. Offshore each of the 49 islands, there is a helpful fish. Give bait to him and he'll tell you about the island and mark it on your Sea Chart. As you progress through the game, you'll find that your Sea Chart will fill up with vital information. On land, a map automatically displays on your screen for easy navigation.

Dungeons:
There are a total of 5 dungeons in WW. Some have complained that that is too few, however, like Goldilocks, we feel it's, "just right." Each dungeon is challenging and interesting. The puzzles don't just re-hash old Zelda fare, but, offer new and exciting challenges. For example, in one dungeon, you have to wear your Iron Boots while using your Hookshot to pull heavy items toward you. Usually, you get pulled to items. It's little twists like this that make you feel both right at home and in a whole new world at the same time.

Items and Weapons:
If you played either of the N64 Zelda games, you'll be very familiar with the items and weapons in Wind Waker. You'll also find the targeting and equiping system to be second-nature. The major weapons in your arsenal are, of course, the Master Sword, the Master Bow, the Hookshot, the Grappling Hook (new to WW), Boomerang (much improved targeting system), and Bombs. Items that will be familiar to you include, your Hylian and Mirror Shield, empty bottles, deku sticks, etc. One new item is the Deku Leaf. You can use this leaf to blow wafts of air at enemies or objects, and, you can also use it as a glider.

An interesting twist on some of these items is your ability to use them on your sail boat. For example, pull out Bombs while asea and you get a big ol' canon. Pull out your Grappling Hook, and you have a winch used to pick up treasure from the bottom of the ocean.

Summary:
Zelda: Wind Waker is definitely one of the best games we've ever played. We lost a week of our lives playing it, and, we don't regret it. The combination of intrinsic gameplay, a wonderful story line, and enthralling graphics results in a truly excellent game. In fact, we haven't played anything since finishing WW. It just doesn't feel right.

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