The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes

Your classic hero with a new twist

Nintendo’s bestselling tunic-clad hero is back in his newest adventure, Tri Force Heroes. At least, it may be him.

The newest installment in the Legend of Zelda series features a group known as the Tri Force Heroes. The new concept is to have players create their own Link and battle alongside two friends in a board styled game where, rather than exploring an immersive open-world, gamers tackle puzzles in worlds similar to other games in the series.

When the game first starts gamers will notice a few different things right off the bat. The health gauge has more hearts than usual, starting players with nine rather than the customary four in previous games. Also, players will start with the famous Hero’s Sword rather than running from place to place to acquire it.

Another feat noticeable in the first few minutes is the satire of the famous hero with characters noting the “perfectly pointy ears, beautiful side-parted hair and the sweet, unmistakable side burns.”

The new multi-player concept offers a new outlook on a franchise that has branded itself with the single player style which is renowned worldwide. Although a single-player option is available, this game is best played with friends.

The totem-style battling system where players carry one another for different attack heights brings a new vertical aspect to this 3D world. It allows for a throwing mechanic where players can toss their friends to new platforms, which were unreachable in older games.

The new style is nothing to fear for old-time fans as it offers the same basic mechanics and offers teamwork rather than adventuring.

One of the other new features in the game is how players spend their rupees. The game’s currency is brought to a new level where players can exchange their hard-earned gems for new clothes that offer different abilities and trade in items found on quests to construct these outfits.

The take-away of unique dungeon items is an easy transition with this new addition.

One of the best features of the game is the art style. Similar to the last handheld release, A Link Between Worlds, the cartoon art makes for an original look and it takes full advantage of the 3D capabilities on the Nintendo 3DS.

Its biggest flaw is the taking away the open world adventuring, especially when players decide to tackle the game alone. This is easily forgettable when trying work with a team or battle with them for the rupees around the battlefield.

Tri Force Heroes takes a new look at a classic game and does a very good job at selling itself to old fans old and new with all it has to offer.

I would rate Tri Force Heroes 7.5/10.