This year, Nintendo has given its iconic princesses, Peach and Zelda, the royal treatment by putting them center stage in their own games. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is a game that stands out as the next mainline Zelda game in the 2D line, with a perfect combination of linear dungeon crawling and key item-style progression from older games, along with freeform problem-solving that made Tears of the Kingdom so captivating.
One of the most significant shifts in Echoes of Wisdom is the central role of Zelda in the game’s plot. As players explore Hyrule to seal mysterious purple rifts, they experience a more engaging story where Zelda is not just a supporting character but the main focus. This change adds depth and significance to the player’s journey through the kingdom.
The echo system in Echoes of Wisdom introduces a unique gameplay element where players can create echoes of defeated enemies and objects found in the world. This mechanic offers a fresh take on traditional Zelda gameplay, providing new ways to interact with the environment and solve puzzles. While the menu for managing echoes can become cluttered, the system adds a layer of strategy and planning to the game.
This innovative approach encourages creativity and experimentation, reminiscent of Breath of the Wild’s open-world design. The echoes act as key items that unlock new ways to traverse the world and overcome obstacles, maintaining the essence of classic Zelda gameplay while offering a fresh experience.
Exploring Hyrule in Echoes of Wisdom evokes nostalgia for longtime fans, with familiar terrains reminiscent of A Link to the Past and nods to Breath of the Wild’s map layout. The game’s hybrid approach honors the past and present of the Zelda series, blending elements from classic titles with modern innovations to create a unique and engaging experience for players.