The Legend of Zelda has been captivating players for generations, each installment cherished for its unique charm. As we anticipate new releases alongside the launch of the Switch 2, fans are understandably eager to see what new directions the series might explore. Given the vast success Zelda has brought to Nintendo, the likelihood of something fresh and exciting is quite high. If the series continues its trend of innovation, the next game might offer a gameplay approach that attracts not just the loyal followers but new enthusiasts as well. Imagine if it took a page from Super Mario RPG’s book.
It’s intriguing that despite its varied lineup, The Legend of Zelda hasn’t ventured into the turn-based RPG territory yet. This seems like a missed opportunity, especially when the franchise has everything needed to make it work. Super Mario RPG’s ability to successfully introduce a well-known cast in a new format serves as proof that The Legend of Zelda could thrive with a similar approach.
A future Zelda game employing turn-based mechanics could break new ground and draw inspiration from what made Super Mario RPG such a hit. A vital component worth adopting is its distinctive art style. The chibi aesthetics of Super Mario RPG allowed characters to seamlessly fit into its turn-based framework. Given that Zelda games like Echoes of Wisdom and the Link’s Awakening remake have embraced similar visuals, a turn-based Zelda using this style could feel very organic. If Nintendo aligns this artistic vision with other key elements from Super Mario RPG, it would set a strong foundation.
Fans looking ahead to the series want to see continued innovation, and a turn-based RPG could deliver just that. Borrowing some aspects from Super Mario RPG doesn’t mean mimicking it completely. The Legend of Zelda already has all the groundwork to venture into this genre, considering:
– The existing RPG elements in the series, like side quests and discoverable items, make the transition to turn-based gameplay smoother.
– Zelda titles often boast a diverse selection of weapons, as seen in games like Breath of the Wild. This allows for rich turn-based RPG equipment options.
– With a wide roster of enemies from across its many games, there’s no shortage of potential foes for a turn-based adventure.
A Zelda game tapping into the RPG genre like the Mario series is arguably overdue, and there’s a hungry audience ready for something new. Nintendo has a golden opportunity here to shepherd the franchise into uncharted, yet exciting territories, ensuring it continues to be a cornerstone of the gaming world.
