gaming Should the Zelda formula change?

[shocker1991 32]

The Zelda series producer, Eiji Aonuma has revealed in an interview that he is getting tired of the current Zelda formula and hopes to change it in a future game.

 

In your opinion, do you think it is a good idea to change the Zelda formula?

 

In my opinion, I think the formula does need to change. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate the current formula but one thing that annoys me about the current formula is that some items found in dungeons become useless after the dungeon is complete or after a specific part of the game.

 

I am probably the only person that will say this, but I would actually like a multiplayer Zelda game. I am aware that the Four Swords games are multiplayer but I would actually like a game with different and unique characters, not just multiple Links. I would like to see Zelda playable in a future title since Peach is going to be playable in Super Mario 3D world.

[PonyBoy15 428]

 

 

I am aware that the Four Swords games are multiplayer but I would actually like a game with different and unique characters, not just multiple Links.

 

I doubt that will happen at this point in development. You know how the producers get when time becomes an issue.

 

I personally think there is nothing wrong with the Zelda formula. It will be breaking tradition do completely change it.

I wouldn't mind some changes. Like you stated, I'd like to see more attainable items throughout the dungeons to have some more use throughout the game. 

 

I would also like the bosses to be harder. The whole 3 hit kill thing is too easy and getting old.

[Planty 1,053]

The main reason that change might not happen hear is they sell so many games with the current formula, I mean Ocarina of time is a top seller on the 3DS.

 

Enjoy the format as it is now immensely, but if they can change the format and make great games then why not?

[Kelerak 14]

I am unbiased as to whether it should change. I love the old formula to death, but I'm also open to having it change if they can make that change correctly, and not stray too far from what makes a Zelda game a Zelda game.

[Megas 27,567]

Basically what Kelerak said. I'm fine with change as long as it's not just for the sake of it while shaking things up while still staying true to what Zelda

 

Also, I want to play a Zelda game as Zelda(no Zelda's Adventure doesn't count)

[Mutemutt 773]

I don't want any big changes to the Zelda formula since that formula is exactly what brings me back to the Zelda series over and over again. I just want them to change the smaller aspects of the series to keep the series fresh and interesting, which is exactly what they've been doing for a while now. 

 

The bottom line is that I want the Zelda game to "feel" like a Zelda game. You need to change things up in order to keep the series entertaining; as long as those changes don't compromise that Zelda feel, I'm totally okay with it.

Edited July 16, 2013 by MuteMutt

[Sylentmana 271]

I want Zelda to be the main character for once.  They could change the name to The Legend of Link  I'm just sick of the whole "save the helpless princess" bit.

[PonyBoy15 428]

 

 

I want Zelda to be the main character for once. They could change the name to The Legend of Link I'm just sick of the whole "save the helpless princess" bit.

 

A lot of Super Mario games revolve around that same theme though

 

Figures because Shigeru Miyamoto is the creator of both franchises.

 

I'd like to be able to battle bosses from other games from the franchise like the creepy demonic Majora's Mask or Ganon from twilight princesses.

[Zygen 6,066]

Well I think the formula does have some points where it can be weak, but it does work pretty well overall, don't wanna fix what isn't broken. Well this doesn't apply to Zelda totally, but it can to some degree.

 

I agree that items should be used more universally outside of the dungeon they reside in, I think thats really one of the bigger issues people have for Zelda.

 

Otherwise, besides some changes here and there i'm sure that can help improve the game in small ways, and other changes that I have no mind to think of will be nice, but other then that I think the formula works pretty well overall.

[Blue Moon 6,341]

Well, I don't think the formula should be entirely changed. "Don't fix what isn't broken."

 

However, I do think the formula could be edited in some points. I agree with the items being able to be used in places other than the appropriate dungeon. Perhaps you could use items in certain dungeons to find secrets in the overworld or something. I also would like to see a bit more focus on the non-dungeon aspects of Zelda such as things to do in the overworld. I think it would be nice.

[Megas 27,567]

A lot of Super Mario games revolve around that same theme though

 

Figures because Shigeru Miyamoto is the creator of both franchises.

 

I'd like to be able to battle bosses from other games from the franchise like the creepy demonic Majora's Mask or Ganon from twilight princesses.

 

The Mario series already did it, plus it's also worth noting that Miyamoto hasn't had a huge role in the Zelda series as he's had in the past. That said, hurry up with that Zelda game starring Zelda Ninty

[PonyBoy15 428]

 

 

The Mario series already did it, plus it's also worth noting that Miyamoto hasn't had a huge role in the Zelda series as he's had in the past. That said, hurry up with that Zelda game starring Zelda Ninty

 

Lets get it, Super Princess Zelda! hahaha

 

Would be a nice little spin off for the series.

 

 

It be fun to go running around hyrule using zelda's magic to take down foes.

[Radiance64 7,053]

They don't need to change the formula completely, although I guess they could make the games a bit harder, and make the world more open like the original Zelda. I won't be sad if they don't do those things, but they would make me happy... we'll see what A Link Between Worlds brings to the table.

[KittsKingdom 3]

I like the formula the way it is, but I suppose that they COULD add a game starring princess zelda.

 

A game starring zelda actually sounds pretty good.

[Pony Joe 583]

I think that the regular change-up in art styles, combat systems, and settings give it enough variety to justify continuing to use the current formula, but there are still some strange traditions that they can't seem to let go of.  Things like having a plot twist after the third dungeon, and having forest, fire, desert, winter, and water themed realms.

 

I have to agree that a game starring Zelda would be a great way to reinvigorate the series.  Maybe one taking place between the time periods of Ocarina of Time, where she discovers her possession of the Triforce of Wisdom?

[ReGen 1,466]

As good as the formula is already, changing it a teensy-weensy bit couldn't hurt. Maybe a different setting or something. 

 

Things like having a plot twist after the third dungeon, and having forest, fire, desert, winter, and water themed realms.

 

Now that I think about it... 

[Forlong 1,726]

Where is the option: "What formula?"  Because there is none.  You can try to apply a formula to the franchise, but there will always be at least one game that breaks the trend (usually three).

 

Obviously someone brought up that you "always have to save the princess".  Proving that they weren't paying attention when playing.  Saving Zelda is not as common in these games as you might think.  Here's a helpful list to show you.

 

Key: Underlining means it has the "save the girl" plot, italic means that you have to save Zelda at some point.

• The Legend of Zelda
• Adventure of Link
• Link to the Past
• Link's Awakening
• Ocarina of Time
• Majora's Mask
• Oracle of Ages/Oracle of Seasons
• Four Swords
• Wind Waker
• Four Swords Adventure
• Minish Cap
• Twilight Princess
• Phantom Hourglass
• Spirit Tracks
• Skyward Sword

Now, if you went by how often you actually have to save Zelda overall, than you're getting somewhere; but you're also being an idiot that way.  Zelda is not a warrior and, if someone powerful like Ganon is after her, she can't evade the kidnapper forever.  You have to give Zelda credit in LttP, OoT, and WW for keeping ahead of Ganondorf for so long.  TP also can't count for that because Zelda allowed herself to be taken by Zant to save Midna's life.

 

Although the minority of games use the "save the girl" plot, the ones that do usually do it in the painfully insulting way.  The only exception is SS (maybe MC).  It does a great job turning that plot-line on it's head.  Every time you show up to "save" Zelda, you find that she was able to get out of trouble without you.  Allowing the plot to felicitate the gameplay element of improving skills and your arsenal.

 

Another thing that you seem to be forgetting is the world that is presented to us.  This is supposed to be a Middle Ages style culture, wherein many women die in childbirth or saving their children.  In such a culture, men would consider themselves honor-bound to protect women.  Even more-so for the queen or princess, because of patriotism.

[shocker1991 32]

Where is the option: "What formula?"  Because there is none.  You can try to apply a formula to the franchise, but there will always be at least one game that breaks the trend (usually three).

 

Obviously someone brought up that you "always have to save the princess".  Proving that they weren't paying attention when playing.  Saving Zelda is not as common in these games as you might think.  Here's a helpful list to show you.

 

Key: Underlining means it has the "save the girl" plot, italic means that you have to save Zelda at some point.

 

• The Legend of Zelda
• Adventure of Link
• Link to the Past
• Link's Awakening
• Ocarina of Time
• Majora's Mask
• Oracle of Ages/Oracle of Seasons
• Four Swords
• Wind Waker
• Four Swords Adventure
• Minish Cap
• Twilight Princess
• Phantom Hourglass
• Spirit Tracks
• Skyward Sword

Now, if you went by how often you actually have to save Zelda overall, than you're getting somewhere; but you're also being an idiot that way.  Zelda is not a warrior and, if someone powerful like Ganon is after her, she can't evade the kidnapper forever.  You have to give Zelda credit in LttP, OoT, and WW for keeping ahead of Ganondorf for so long.  TP also can't count for that because Zelda allowed herself to be taken by Zant to save Midna's life.

 

Although the minority of games use the "save the girl" plot, the ones that do usually do it in the painfully insulting way.  The only exception is SS (maybe MC).  It does a great job turning that plot-line on it's head.  Every time you show up to "save" Zelda, you find that she was able to get out of trouble without you.  Allowing the plot to felicitate the gameplay element of improving skills and your arsenal.

 

Another thing that you seem to be forgetting is the world that is presented to us.  This is supposed to be a Middle Ages style culture, wherein many women die in childbirth or saving their children.  In such a culture, men would consider themselves honor-bound to protect women.  Even more-so for the queen or princess, because of patriotism.

The formula is was referring to was

.Explore the overworld

.enter a dungeon

.defeat the boss of the dungeon

.explore the overworld again

.enter the next dungeon etc.

[Toastie 110]

 

 

current Zelda formula

 

I think it could be changed a bit yeah, they did that a bit skyward sword but personally I didn't like that game too much. As long as I can button spam my sword attacks I will not complain

[Forlong 1,726]

The formula is was referring to was

.Explore the overworld

.enter a dungeon

.defeat the boss of the dungeon

.explore the overworld again

.enter the next dungeon etc.

That's a very general video game style.  Plenty of other games have a similar formula.  Darksiders, Elder Scrolls, Fable, and Final Fantasy to a point.  It's almost as basic as "shot the aliens".  But I do concede that is a formula that every Zelda game follows (except for Crossbow Training, but no one cares about that).

[WonderColt 23]

If current news is to be believed then the Zelda formula will be getting a major change when the new instalment comes out on the Wii U, as this article from Wii U Daily describes.

 

 

The Legend of Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma recently revealed that he’s getting tired of the current Zelda formula and that it’s going to be changed, with the next Zelda game featuring many unexpected elements. Aonuma says a delicate balance must be maintained between the new and the old to make sure the new elements don’t clash with what’s established in the Zelda theme.

“It’s not that anyone is telling me we have to change the formula. I want to change it. I’m kind of getting tired of it. If I’m getting tired of it, then I’m sure other people are getting tired of it. There is an essential ‘Zelda’ I feel we need to stay true to. We are still testing things, exploring our options.”

It’s interesting to note that Aonuma has been hinting at new elements for the newest Zelda game for some time now, though this is the first time he’s spoken candidly about the current formula of the games and the success they’ve built upon.

Hopefully Aonuma can find a great balance between new and old so fans of the series enjoy the additions and newcomers will appreciate their first Zelda game. 

[akalink 163]

It would be interesting to see the Formula change, there hasn't been a formula change since A Link to the Past (not counter Four Swords Adventures because its formula has yet to alter the series systematically). 

I would press Nintendo do base its formulas off or some of its more original games in the series.

 

Four Swords Adventures: This would press the series into a more loot based Adventure Game. The original game placed each level into a self contained adventure. Players would be able to "loot" treasure and money to get the best score at the end of the level. Players could only hold a limited amount of items (1 weapon in 4SA) making them be greedy or generous in their fight to beat the level. This more for a multiplayer Zelda. 4SA is still an amazing game in its own right. This would make the Zelda Series more resemble the Borderlands Series.

 

Zelda II: The would make the Zelda Series a RPG once more. The question is how much would that alienate the audiences of the Zelda Series. Nintendo makes these games for first timers and fan with the intent to make more fans. This would make the series more like a watered down Elder Scrolls game.I don't like this idea.

 

Zelda I: You're on your own.

 

I'm not so sure if any of these formulas would work for the series as a whole.

[ShadowRose2k 271]

The Zelda series producer, Eiji Aonuma has revealed in an interview that he is getting tired of the current Zelda formula and hopes to change it in a future game.

 

I think he may need to elaborate what formula he is talking about.   Zelda Games have changed Drasticly over the years. (remember Zelda 2 where link gained exp and lvled up. also side scrolling battles. )

 

Or is it the  "save the Princess" aspect they want to move away from.   Actually a Zelda game where you have to play as Zelda to rescue or Find the "hero Link" would be an interesting concept.  Even a possible 2 player  option where Link and Zelda fight together to defeat Gannon.  That would however require a strong AI  or system of "comanding" player 2 NPC  for those that would want to go solo thru the game.  

 

Still  they should try something new like that.  Fesh and exciting.

 

Got that Nintendo!!!???

Next Zelda Game needs:

 

1. Co-op Play option. (split screen or on line would be cool)

2.  Not requireing that huge touch screen controller of yours.

3.   A lvl up system that is not just collect more hearts. a talent/skill tree (small one done well)  could make replay varried and interesting if done right.

4. I guess weapon upgrading was kinda neat. Again  with difrent upgrade paths to select to keep things intersting.

5. open world seems to be a given at this point,  throw  a few optional random open world bosses that you can huntdown for fun.

 

Be Daring, Be bold, Take chances!  Its Zelda, Its gonna make money.  So take the initiative and experiment.

 

 

Or  just stick to the basics, that you been using all thease years.

Edited July 21, 2013 by ShadowRose2k