The Legend of Zelda series has spawned many titles through multiple generations, each beloved for different reasons. Fans likely expect the series to introduce something to the catalog of games released in the launch year of the Switch 2, and given the success Zelda has brought Nintendo, that possibility is high. However, considering how The Legend of Zelda series isn’t afraid of trying something new, the next entry may have a gameplay formula that’s different enough that it could pique the interest of those outside long-time supporters. Were that to be the case, perhaps Nintendo should consider something akin to the style of Super Mario RPG.
Despite the many different games in The Legend of Zelda series, it has yet to tackle the turn-based RPG genre. This is genuinely surprising, especially when considering the series has all the resources necessary to do so. Super Mario RPG resonating so well with long-time Nintendo fans – mainly because of how well it used characters from an established franchise in a new gameplay format – is all the proof needed that the same approach can and should be taken with The Legend of Zelda.
Related
The Case for a Mainline Zelda Multiverse Game
Zelda has been toying with the idea of a multiverse for decades, but it might be time for the series to admit to its existence in a mainline game.
Why Super Mario RPG Would Be the Sensible Choice for Inspiring a Turn-Based Zelda RPG
A future Zelda game could go completely off the rails and find new avenues of success if it decides to go the turn-based RPG route, and it’s likely to do especially well if it borrows what made Super Mario RPG so popular. While there are many reasons why that particular title would make the perfect point of inspiration, a notable aspect to consider borrowing is its art style. Super Mario RPG‘s chibi-like design helped the Nintendo characters feel natural within a turn-based setting, and given that Zelda games such as Echoes of Wisdom and the remake of Link’s Awakening closely resemble that chibi style, a hypothetical turn-based entry keeping this visual approach would feel natural. So long as Nintendo takes note of how Super Mario RPG managed to mesh its unique art with its other elements, the title would be off to a good start.
What Allows the Legend of Zelda to Tackle the Turn-Based RPG Genre
Continued innovation is one of the things fans will want to see when it comes to future Zelda games, and the turn-based RPG route fits the bill. While it can’t copy literally everything from Super Mario RPG, that won’t be an issue, as the franchise has what it needs to tackle the genre, such as:
- Many games in the franchise already incorporate RPG elements, such as side-quests and secret items and weapons, making it easier to develop a game that involves turn-based gameplay.
- The franchise is known for having games with a diverse weapon selection, with Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wild being the best examples, meaning there are a lot of options for turn-based RPG equipment.
- The multiple generations of games have provided an extensive cast of enemies, meaning there are many options to choose from when incorporating foes into a turn-based RPG Zelda game.
A Zelda game similar to how the Mario franchise has tackled the RPG genre is long overdue, and many fans would likely be interested in it if it were to be developed. Nintendo should strongly consider the opportunity, as it’s a way for the franchise to grow and take on a new direction that will help it remain a staple of the video gaming industry.
- Released
-
September 26, 2024
- ESRB
-
E10+ For Everyone 10+
- Publisher(s)
-
Nintendo