A Link to the Past 2 (Zelda 3DS) Has Been in the Works Since 2011

We now have a better reference for the development cycle of Zelda 3DS. According to Siliconera, Zelda 3DS has been in the works since 2011. Eiji Aonuma apparently hinted at the 2011 development cycle during a Japan only Wii U related Nintendo Direct. Why a Wii U one? He was on there talking about the Zelda Miiverse community. In addition to framing the timetable for development of the title, he had this to say:

The world of Hyrule has been reborn in a highly realistic stereoscopic vision, which will feature a new story and new puzzles to be solved. The development for the successor of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is going smoothly, so, please look forward to it!

The day we’ll be seeing the successor is still further ahead, but for those of you who wish to contribute or show your support, please comment on the Wii U The Legend of Zelda series community [on Miiverse].

My main gripe presently revolves around one simple remark: “highly realistic”. That’s not exactly the best word choice, and twice now he has put that label out there. I guess Eiji and myself have two different definitions for that term. That being said, I can’t wait to see more information about this title. I am not too surprised it’s been in the works since 2011, because we wont be seeing a lot of quick turnaround games out of the big N. This does beg the question on if Zelda U has been in development since 2011 as well. That could give a much better time table for arrival.