Daily Debate: What Art Style Should be Utilized in the Next 2D Zelda Game?

As the Zelda series continues to grow in popularity, I wouldn’t be surprised if we get a new entry or, at the very least, a remaster in the 2D facet of the series. With the Nintendo Switch successor looming over the horizon of 2025, perhaps we may even receive it as a launch title. Although, for the time being this may well be a pipe dream, allow me to pose the question: What art style would you like to see utilized in the next 2D Zelda?

Prior to 2007, the 2D Zelda games used various styles of pixel art. The original game and its sequel were, of course, made in the classic NES style of pixel art. A Link to the Past, Link’s Awakening DX, Oracle of Seasons, Oracle of Ages, and The Minish Cap became more detailed  with each game, but all of the art styles used pixel art. Conversely, Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks adopted the cartoony style of The Wind Waker while A Link Between Worlds shaped its top-down style with a different cartoony atmosphere. Link’s Awakening (2019) crafted its world with a toy-like art style, opting to use anime for the cutscenes.

I personally can’t see Nintendo returning to the pixelated format of the original 2D Zeldas; however, as the art style has become quite popular with modern indie games, it definitely isn’t out of the question. The older styles certainly have a nostalgic appeal. However, I think Nintendo will continue to improve their graphics beyond the scope of my imagination.

What art style do you think the next 2D Zelda should use? Which of the other 2D styles is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!

Aubriel Eastman

Aubriel has been an avid Zelda fan since she was 13, when she discovered Twilight Princess. She loves writing screenplays and composing music, and is currently going to school for a BA in film. Aubriel is a staff writer for Zelda Dungeon.