Taking a closer look at Zelda 3DS details

Well, Nintendo has finally blown the lid off in regards to a new Zelda 3DS title during this morning’s Nintendo Direct presentation. After possibly years of developing the title in secret, A Link to the Past 2 will be the sequel to the original SNES title and, from the trailer we’ve seen showcased during Nintendo Direct, this 3DS title will indeed be hyped up dramatically as the current Holiday 2013 launch window draws closer.

Yet what will be different about this new Zelda 3DS title? According to the footage shown during the presentation, quite a few changes have already been brought before gamers’ eyes so hit the jump below if you’d like to see some interesting mechanics Nintendo is utilizing for what some are calling A Link to the Past 2!

First take a look at the footage shown:

Now let’s go through some interesting details Nintendo is using for Zelda 3DS. The easiest implementation to see is that Link can turn into a drawing which is a move Link has not been able to perform  before. Some gamers have a right to think that this is a bit too Paper Mario-like and I tend to agree that this a bit weird. It will be interesting to see it utilized for the whole game, however, so don’t worry yet if you don’t like the idea. Another note to point out is the top-down view and art style following very closely to previous handheld titles, Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks. While not as cartoony, it’s interesting that Nintendo has not chosen to go with an Ocarina of Time 3D type viewpoint. Overall, I like this birds-eye viewpoint and it should provide some amazing 3D depth.

Did you notice the hammer-type weapon Link was using? Also, did you see that meter on the bottom left of the screen drop when he slammed it on the ground? It seems that at least one weapon will use a certain magic meter to perform like the Deku Leaf in the Wind Waker or magic spells in Ocarina of Time. This will provide a little challenge yet the good news is that the meter recharges, so maybe there is no need for finding a magic jar or similar item to fill the meter. The overworld is reminiscent of A Link to the Past as well as The Minish Cap and features scrolling, like those two titles, when heading to different areas. The nostalgia should be felt in old and newer gamers. Old enemies such as Chu-Chus and Guays are returning and plenty more familiar faces should be too. The bow and arrow is also another weapon to be confirmed for returning to the series!

What do you think of Nintendo’s decision to create a game similar in look to A Link to the Past for 3DS? Are you happy with the new details already revealed for the title? Do you wish Majora’s Mask had been given a 3DS remake first? Please let us know what you think in the comments!