The Scotsman Games Review: Hyrule Warriors

EVEN with Nintendo’s eclectic pedigree, the combination at the heart of Hyrule Warriors seemed odd when it was first announced, but it is a qualified success.

The Zelda series is rightly one of the most famous series in gaming. Picture: Contributed

Hyrule Warriors

Platform: Wii U

Score: 7.9 / 10

The Zelda series is rightly one of the most famous series in gaming, while the Warriors games - enjoyable though they may be - have only ever held a cult appeal, predominantly among Japanese audiences. It is an unexpected debut for an original Zelda game on the console. But then with Mario having proved he can peacefully co-exist with Sonic in a game, all bets are off nowadays when it comes the sanctity of individual franchises.

This, then, is no ordinary Zelda game. Nowhere will you find the prodigiously designed exploratory gameplay, puzzle elements and rich, abiding narrative, the core ingredients in any Link stew. Instead, it is a breezy and derivative combat offshoot with all the depth and density of an unsuccessful Great British Bake Off contestant’s walnut loaf. It really ought not to work. Yet in concentrated bursts, it is a welcome diversion from the ordinary.

The action is true to Koei Tecmo’s hack and slash traditions

For those happiest when Link is scything his way through hordes of enemies - or even shubbery in search of rupees - Hyrule Warriors is the ideal fit. The lion’s share of the action is true to Koei Tecmo’s hack and slash traditions, with the diminutive young hero wielding his trusty blade and administering a variety of attacks to foes. As you progress, the arsenal of weaponry opens up to reveal some trusty favourites, such as bombs and the Hero’s Bow.

As Warriors tradition dictates, the action on the battlefields is frenetic, revolving around the use of combo attacks and well-timed dodge manoeuvres. Herculean bosses from Zelda lore also punctuate the action and reveal the best aspects of Hyrule Warriors: it is a love letter to Zelda, abundant with familiar faces and tropes from down the decades. A pared back iteration of the Warriors template, the first few hours of play are a joy for newcomers to the Koei Tecmo oeuvre and Nintendo fans alike.

The simplified gameplay can become wearying after a while

This does, regrettably, come at a cost. After those initial hours, there is little else to truly grip the attention, short of discovering new characters or musical motifs. Whereas the basic battle gameplay of the Warriors has been broadened of late with titles such Warriors Orochi 3, the simplified nature of Hyrule Warriors can induce a certain weariness after a while. It is a curiosity that exhibits a deep and abiding affection for Link’s various adventures down the years and a welcome addition to the Zelda family, albeit one that is merely a stopgap before the next game proper.

TIPS AND TRICKS:

1) Compared to other Warriors games, this is a relatively forgiving title and best experienced at a stiff difficulty level.

2) Potions are a good way of improving your offensive capabilities, so it is worthwhile collecting as many Skulltulas as possible.

3) Your character’s attack power is linked to their level, so in order to get past some of the tougher stages it is imperative you level up before attempting it.