Showing posts with label Zelda. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Zelda. Show all posts
December 29, 2013
October 11, 2013
Well... Not Sure Why They Rotated It- A Link Between Worlds and More
Nintendo recently showed 8 minutes of their new Zelda game: A Link Between Worlds- and we know a bit more about it. I am interested in how they utilize the flat wall mechanic, though the world seems too familiar to the Hyrule from A Link to the Past. The "dark world", as promised has returned- but not in the way you think it does. Apparently the "alternative world" is a place called "Lorule". Very funny Nintendo.
We have no clue if Lorule is connected to the Sacred Realm or if either have anything to do with each other; other than the fact that they share the same basic music- Lorule being orchestrated for the 3Ds, of course.
Of interesting note is in the screenshot I took here. The temple of time area (or the ruins of) where the pedestal to the Master Sword is has been rotated right 90 degrees. What this means- I have no idea. I would venture there probably isn't any significance to the change- but the area is obviously shaped like the old Temple of Time layouts- a long corridor of a room connected to something octagonal or spherical where the pedestal is.
We know Nintendo has a knack for gameplay over story- but they shouldn't neglect either, in my opinion. While similar to A Link to the Past, new Zelda players that never got to play that title have a fresh experience with A Link Between Worlds.
I don't know if that Triforce symbol with the upside down version is relevant, but we know that items can be rented or purchased- they can be upgraded- and the Master Sword returns in this game. I'd prefer to have a larger library for this system before I shell hard earned money on it- but fortunate as I am at my age- I still get Yuletide gifts. I might have to ask for this and another game or two.
We have no clue if Lorule is connected to the Sacred Realm or if either have anything to do with each other; other than the fact that they share the same basic music- Lorule being orchestrated for the 3Ds, of course.
Of interesting note is in the screenshot I took here. The temple of time area (or the ruins of) where the pedestal to the Master Sword is has been rotated right 90 degrees. What this means- I have no idea. I would venture there probably isn't any significance to the change- but the area is obviously shaped like the old Temple of Time layouts- a long corridor of a room connected to something octagonal or spherical where the pedestal is.
We know Nintendo has a knack for gameplay over story- but they shouldn't neglect either, in my opinion. While similar to A Link to the Past, new Zelda players that never got to play that title have a fresh experience with A Link Between Worlds.
I don't know if that Triforce symbol with the upside down version is relevant, but we know that items can be rented or purchased- they can be upgraded- and the Master Sword returns in this game. I'd prefer to have a larger library for this system before I shell hard earned money on it- but fortunate as I am at my age- I still get Yuletide gifts. I might have to ask for this and another game or two.
June 27, 2013
Hyrule's History Part II: Early Turbulence
In the last article we talked about the destruction of Demise and the
transition of the people of Skyloft to the surface. The remains of Demise were
absorbed into the Master Sword. It would be some time before the remains were
completely dissolved; and when that occurred, Demise's reincarnation would
appear in the world.
Warning: This Article Contains Spoilers!
When Zelda returned, she proclaimed that she longed to see the surface and wanted to stay there. This would begin the history of Hyrule proper. The very first Zelda's descendants became known as the Hylians. Because of their connection to the goddess Hylia, each generation was born with magical powers (1). Every subsequent generation had those powers wane.
The place Link put the Master Sword to rest was none other than the Sealed Grounds, also known as the Temple of Hylia. It was built thousands of years ago by the early humans on the surface for the worship of Hylia. It is unclear if the Triforce was kept underground; underneath the temple in the Sky Keep, or if it was placed there later. The entire area features the Sealed grounds in addition to the massive, spiral shaped hole in front of the temple which was lifted into the Sky thousands of years ago by Hylia to protect the humans and the Triforce.
The Age of Chaos; Prosperity and the Creation of the Temple of Time
"Many years later", perhaps 100-200 years later according to Hyrule Historia was an age of chaos. Greed consumed many people as they learned about the legend of the Triforce (1). They began to seek it out, and would kill one another for it (1). In response, a Sage named Rauru built a new temple over the old Sealed Temple and called it the Temple of Time (1). The Triforce was returned to the Sacred Realm and was enshrined in the Temple of Light within that realm. With a power greater than the Master Sword and time itself- he sealed the only entrance to the Sacred Realm with the Master Sword and the Door of Time (1).
It was an excellent way to protect the Triforce- the Master Sword would only let its chosen master draw it; and only the most worthy could enter the realm and wish on the Triforce. As an additional measure- three spiritual stones were needed to open the Door of Time. They were distributed to trusted peoples within the Kingdom. Another safety measure was implemented- and it was one that was kept quiet as a hidden legend. The three spiritual stones were the keys to the Door of Time, but in order to open the gateway a very specific song needed to be played on a magical artifact known as the Ocarina of Time.
It is assumed that the Ocarina of Time was made in
this era and was given to the Royal Family, along with the knowledge of the
Song of Time. Later, the requirements to open the door were inscribed on
an altar in the Temple of Time. To protect the Triforce, the possession of the
Ocarina of Time was kept a well-guarded secret by the Royal Family. Hyrule
Historia hints that the Ocarina of Time is infused, or is entirely created by
Timeshift Stones, which could be found in the Lanaryu Desert (1), which may eventually become known as the Gerudo Desert.
Although Hyrule Historia does not say anything about the relationship, it is possible that Rauru the Light Sage is Zelda's father, Gaepora. They share similar dress, features and themes. Rauru's real world form is that of an owl named Kaepora Gaebora. Zelda's father was names Gaepora, and has the look and mannerisms of an owl. The connections seem clear from my end, but nothing has been officially stated by Nintendo or Hyrule Historia.
I suppose they leave this question up to the players, as the idea of Rauru being Gaepora does not create any paradoxes or contradictions- yet. It is unclear if Rauru built the Temple of Time BEFORE the founding of Hyrule or after. If he built the Temple of Time before Hyrule was founded- that is further evidence that Rauru is Gaepora.
After the Triforce was properly sealed within the Sacred Realm, and coming up empty handed- people began to give up looking for the mystical power; citing it as legend (1). And thus, the story became one. When Hyrule was founded, the castle was placed near the Temple of Time so that the Royal Family could watch over the Triforce, which they knew was not a legend (1). When it became a legend, the Royal Family wanted it to stay that way; and remained quiet about its existence (1). Rauru would remain sealed inside the Temple of Light in order to watch over the Triforce.
Evil Creeps Forth Again
perhaps 200 years later evil began to creep forth once again. The Hero of Men, an unidentified hero of Hyrule rose to fight the evil hordes. Just when all hope was lost, the Picori (really the Minish) descended from the skies and brought with them the Light Force and the Picori Blade. The Hero of Men used the tools to lock all of the evil away in the bound chest- and sealed this chest with the Picori Blade.
With talk of the Triforce dying down, Hyrule entered an era of prosperity for some time (1). The Picori Blade was entrusted to the Hyrule Royal family. The family also kept the existence of the Minish a secret; preferring to keep their existence a legend. A festival is held once a year in commemoration of the feats of the Hero of Men. Every 100 years, the gateway to the realm of the Minish opens in the world of Hyrule.
The Minish Cap
100 years later a sword fighting tournament was held in Hyrule Town (1). A stranger by the name of Vaati won the championship. His goal was to access the bound chest, which he thought contained the Light Force. To access the chest he destroyed the Picori blade housed in it. He unleashed hordes of evil upon the land and turned Princess Zelda into stone.
Link met Ezlo, a mysterious talking hat that eventually reveals himself to
be a cursed Minish. They set off on a quest to reforge the Picori Blade. When
Link gathered the four elements and took them to the sanctuary at the bridge
between the Minish realm and the world, the sword transformed from the Picori
blade into the Four Sword. The power of this sword splits the wielder into four
copies of himself (1).
Vaati extracted some of the light force from Zelda and transformed into a monster. In an epic battle that brought the walls down, Link defeated Vaati. The monster vanished into thin air, and peace was restored to Hyrule with the use of the cap Ezlo made (1). The portal was closed, and time passed before another crisis would arise.
Four Swords
It is unclear whether the introduction in the game discusses the Minish Cap Link’s feats or if sometime between The Minish Cap and Four Swords, another hero arose and sealed a resurrected Vaati into the Four Sword. It could also be that the Minish Cap Link sealed Vaati in the four sword in an event after the Minish Cap game. Sometime after the events of the Minish Cap, perhaps 200 years later Vaati returned with a vengeance.
Being evil for so long, he held no former memories of being a Minish and was blind with rage and malice (1). Vaati breaks his seal from within the Four Sword. Hyrule Historia hints that a descendant of the Minish Cap Link appeared to seal Vaati in the Four Sword (1). Vaati took up headquarters in the Palace of Winds, taking Zelda with him.
Link set out on a quest, aided by local Great Fairies to gain access to the Palace of Winds (1). Link gained the keys he needed to confront Vaati and did so. Splitting into four he defeated Vaati and made sure to seal him back into the Four Sword. The Four Sword was returned to its pedestal. The Royal Family would make sure that they would take better care in monitoring Vaati’s seal (1).
Next, we'll look at a time right before the center of the Legend of Zelda Mythos: and one of the greatest games of all time: Zelda: Ocarina of Time, during the Era of the Hero of Time.
Warning: This Article Contains Spoilers!
When Zelda returned, she proclaimed that she longed to see the surface and wanted to stay there. This would begin the history of Hyrule proper. The very first Zelda's descendants became known as the Hylians. Because of their connection to the goddess Hylia, each generation was born with magical powers (1). Every subsequent generation had those powers wane.
The place Link put the Master Sword to rest was none other than the Sealed Grounds, also known as the Temple of Hylia. It was built thousands of years ago by the early humans on the surface for the worship of Hylia. It is unclear if the Triforce was kept underground; underneath the temple in the Sky Keep, or if it was placed there later. The entire area features the Sealed grounds in addition to the massive, spiral shaped hole in front of the temple which was lifted into the Sky thousands of years ago by Hylia to protect the humans and the Triforce.
The Age of Chaos; Prosperity and the Creation of the Temple of Time
"Many years later", perhaps 100-200 years later according to Hyrule Historia was an age of chaos. Greed consumed many people as they learned about the legend of the Triforce (1). They began to seek it out, and would kill one another for it (1). In response, a Sage named Rauru built a new temple over the old Sealed Temple and called it the Temple of Time (1). The Triforce was returned to the Sacred Realm and was enshrined in the Temple of Light within that realm. With a power greater than the Master Sword and time itself- he sealed the only entrance to the Sacred Realm with the Master Sword and the Door of Time (1).
It was an excellent way to protect the Triforce- the Master Sword would only let its chosen master draw it; and only the most worthy could enter the realm and wish on the Triforce. As an additional measure- three spiritual stones were needed to open the Door of Time. They were distributed to trusted peoples within the Kingdom. Another safety measure was implemented- and it was one that was kept quiet as a hidden legend. The three spiritual stones were the keys to the Door of Time, but in order to open the gateway a very specific song needed to be played on a magical artifact known as the Ocarina of Time.
It is assumed that the Ocarina of Time was made in
this era and was given to the Royal Family, along with the knowledge of the
Song of Time. Later, the requirements to open the door were inscribed on
an altar in the Temple of Time. To protect the Triforce, the possession of the
Ocarina of Time was kept a well-guarded secret by the Royal Family. Hyrule
Historia hints that the Ocarina of Time is infused, or is entirely created by
Timeshift Stones, which could be found in the Lanaryu Desert (1), which may eventually become known as the Gerudo Desert.Although Hyrule Historia does not say anything about the relationship, it is possible that Rauru the Light Sage is Zelda's father, Gaepora. They share similar dress, features and themes. Rauru's real world form is that of an owl named Kaepora Gaebora. Zelda's father was names Gaepora, and has the look and mannerisms of an owl. The connections seem clear from my end, but nothing has been officially stated by Nintendo or Hyrule Historia.
I suppose they leave this question up to the players, as the idea of Rauru being Gaepora does not create any paradoxes or contradictions- yet. It is unclear if Rauru built the Temple of Time BEFORE the founding of Hyrule or after. If he built the Temple of Time before Hyrule was founded- that is further evidence that Rauru is Gaepora.
After the Triforce was properly sealed within the Sacred Realm, and coming up empty handed- people began to give up looking for the mystical power; citing it as legend (1). And thus, the story became one. When Hyrule was founded, the castle was placed near the Temple of Time so that the Royal Family could watch over the Triforce, which they knew was not a legend (1). When it became a legend, the Royal Family wanted it to stay that way; and remained quiet about its existence (1). Rauru would remain sealed inside the Temple of Light in order to watch over the Triforce.
perhaps 200 years later evil began to creep forth once again. The Hero of Men, an unidentified hero of Hyrule rose to fight the evil hordes. Just when all hope was lost, the Picori (really the Minish) descended from the skies and brought with them the Light Force and the Picori Blade. The Hero of Men used the tools to lock all of the evil away in the bound chest- and sealed this chest with the Picori Blade.
With talk of the Triforce dying down, Hyrule entered an era of prosperity for some time (1). The Picori Blade was entrusted to the Hyrule Royal family. The family also kept the existence of the Minish a secret; preferring to keep their existence a legend. A festival is held once a year in commemoration of the feats of the Hero of Men. Every 100 years, the gateway to the realm of the Minish opens in the world of Hyrule.
The Minish Cap
100 years later a sword fighting tournament was held in Hyrule Town (1). A stranger by the name of Vaati won the championship. His goal was to access the bound chest, which he thought contained the Light Force. To access the chest he destroyed the Picori blade housed in it. He unleashed hordes of evil upon the land and turned Princess Zelda into stone.
Link met Ezlo, a mysterious talking hat that eventually reveals himself to
be a cursed Minish. They set off on a quest to reforge the Picori Blade. When
Link gathered the four elements and took them to the sanctuary at the bridge
between the Minish realm and the world, the sword transformed from the Picori
blade into the Four Sword. The power of this sword splits the wielder into four
copies of himself (1).Vaati extracted some of the light force from Zelda and transformed into a monster. In an epic battle that brought the walls down, Link defeated Vaati. The monster vanished into thin air, and peace was restored to Hyrule with the use of the cap Ezlo made (1). The portal was closed, and time passed before another crisis would arise.
Four Swords
It is unclear whether the introduction in the game discusses the Minish Cap Link’s feats or if sometime between The Minish Cap and Four Swords, another hero arose and sealed a resurrected Vaati into the Four Sword. It could also be that the Minish Cap Link sealed Vaati in the four sword in an event after the Minish Cap game. Sometime after the events of the Minish Cap, perhaps 200 years later Vaati returned with a vengeance.
Being evil for so long, he held no former memories of being a Minish and was blind with rage and malice (1). Vaati breaks his seal from within the Four Sword. Hyrule Historia hints that a descendant of the Minish Cap Link appeared to seal Vaati in the Four Sword (1). Vaati took up headquarters in the Palace of Winds, taking Zelda with him.
Link set out on a quest, aided by local Great Fairies to gain access to the Palace of Winds (1). Link gained the keys he needed to confront Vaati and did so. Splitting into four he defeated Vaati and made sure to seal him back into the Four Sword. The Four Sword was returned to its pedestal. The Royal Family would make sure that they would take better care in monitoring Vaati’s seal (1).
Next, we'll look at a time right before the center of the Legend of Zelda Mythos: and one of the greatest games of all time: Zelda: Ocarina of Time, during the Era of the Hero of Time.
__________
(1) Hyrule Historia. Nintendo. Dark Horse Comics (c) 2013
Updated 6/27/2013 for formatting and grammatical stuff.
(1) Hyrule Historia. Nintendo. Dark Horse Comics (c) 2013
Updated 6/27/2013 for formatting and grammatical stuff.
June 15, 2013
Where is A Link Between Worlds (ALBW) Going?
God I wish I had speech to text for this- this is going to be a
#1 is that Hyrule Historia is a published work and it will need to be documented properly. I will not be a conduit for transmitting the book on this blog because I respect Nintendo and my wallet's safety from lawsuit. That doesn't mean I cannot quote it for explanation or review- but it does mean I won't be copying huge paragraphs from it unless absolutely necessary to explain my point. The book was $20 US plus shipping. Please buy it and enjoy it for yourself. It also serves as an art book. I am a HUGE Zelda nerd and couldn't resist. I HAD to have it.
#2 In my opinion, there is an order of credibility to the sources of the Hyrulian Timeline. We have to face facts here. Things were said by Miyamoto or Aonuma that weren't accurate and that were on the spot. The manga is not canon. The english manuals for older games were sometimes wrong. The story was woven together not from the beginning but after many, many games were produced. This was due to the focus on gameplay- the mess of detangling the timeline was left to the fans, until now. The order of credibility, in my opinion, should be as follows:
A) Hyrule Historia
B) Games Themselves
C) Manuals not from english Zelda I, Zelda II or ALTTP
D) What Aonuma or Miyamoto said
E) Conjecture
Even some of the knowledge I know of has no source. You should follow Occam's Razor as close as you can with this stuff and not base facts off of fan thoroughfare. You should also have a source with each fact gleaned. Anything not sourced is either conjecture or came straight from a Zelda game. A large part of the Zelda mythos is for you yourself to explain- and Nintendo did this on purpose because they honestly don't know themselves.
A Link Between Worlds.... A Link to My?
It's like this with all brand new Zelda titles- we know jack crap about the game before it comes out. In the case of placing ALBW on the timeline, many people are currently asking the wrong question. The game isn't out yet, Hyrule Historia was written 1-2 years ago, we don't have access to japanese manuals, so we have to rely on what Aonuma or Miyamoto said. In an interview with Kotaku (1) , Aonuma stated:
"The new 3DS game is set at least a generation ahead of 1991's A Link to the Past, Nintendo's Zelda franchise boss Eiji Aonuma told me this past week as we chatted about the game at E3. (We talked about the upcoming Wind Waker re-make, too.) "It’s not a direct sequel in the sense that it’s the same Link and Zelda. The world is the same and it might be a different generation of Link and Zelda."
If we want to argue semantics, a generation can last whatever amount of time you want it to. Typically, a generation lasts 20-30 years in layman's terms. People were asking "when does A Link to the Past 2 take place after the first game?" and they are asking the wrong question. In fact the alternative question of where it fits has already been answered, and has yet, at the time of this writing to be overridden by credibility options B or C. This means, whether you like Nintendo messing around with prequels or not- the sequel is the original game's prequel (2). Go figure.
Conjecture Warning
If you want to speculate, this could be ALTTP's Link's father. This Link would have a brother who would watch after ALTTP's Link, which means something happens to the Link in ALBW. One could argue that they are different Links that have nothing to do with each other- which is possible- but why are they seen near the same house? Time will tell when we get to "credibility option B".
To better understand the very little we know about this game, we need to understand the timeline that it is placed in, and accept the fact that ALBW is placed in front of ALTTP until specified otherwise by a higher up source. Ocarina of Time messed up everything. Literally. There are three different ways the Legend takes place (3), and possibly room for a derivative of one of the three or a fourth, "separate" one.
"Adult timeline". After Link sticks Ganon and the sages seal him in the Sacred Realm, Zelda sends Link back to his own time. We need to stop right at the point when Link leaves. This world he leaves behind is the adult timeline where Wind Waker happens. This is not the focus of our analysis at the moment.
"Child timeline" After Link sticks Ganon and the sages seal him in the Sacred Realm, Zelda sends Link back to his own time. The world he returns to, the world he left before sleeping in the chamber of sages is the child timeline. This timeline hosts games such as Majora's Mask and Twilight Princess. This is not the focus of our analysis at the moment.
"Failed timeline" During the events of Ocarina of Time, Link faces Gannondorf
The actual war began some years after Link was killed (3). Hyrule Historia claims that Zelda, along with the seven sages sealed Ganon in the sacred realm as a last resort (3). I do not have a copy of the book at the moment, so I cannot glance into the context of the statement. This could be prior to the Imprisoning War, or it could be the Imprisoning War. I am inclined to believe it is prior to the Imprisoning War for reasons that will follow. Later, greed begins luring swaskbucklers and adventurers to the Sacred Realm in search of the Triforce- but they had no idea that Ganon got there first (3). Because of the increase in traffic to the Sacred Realm, the King orders the leak to be be plugged shut (3). As they are about to finish the ceremony to close the Sacred Realm again, Ganon began his attack and slayed the majority of the Knights of Hyrule (3;7). This could be known as the Imprisoning War.
Hyrule Historia implies that this set of Sages is different from the seven sages of Ocarina of Time (3). Only after most of the Knights of Hyrule were killed off did they successfully seal the entrance to the Sacred Realm; Ganon with it (who was still in posession of the Triforce) (3). The story will then eventually lead to the Great Cataclysm, which is part of the main storyline in A Link to the Past.
Time will tell.
____________________________
(1) http://kotaku.com/the-world-of-a-link-to-the-past-has-changed-in-the-new-513424187. Totilo, Stephen. 2013 Jun. "The new 3DS game is set at least a generation ahead of 1991's A Link to the Past, Nintendo's Zelda franchise boss Eiji Aonuma told me this past week"
(2) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHIP9UtkQDQ. Rolfe, James. 2006 Nov. A hillarious video featuring the angry video game nerd being PO'd about Nintendo playing hokey-pokey with the timeline and sequels/prequels.
(3) See Hyrule Historia. Miyamoto/Dark Horse. 2013.
(4) See A Link to the Past. ""This world was once the Golden Land where the Triforce was hidden. But because Ganon, the leader of the thieves, wished it, this world was transformed."
(5) See A Link to the Past. "This world was once the Golden Land where the Triforce was hidden. But because Ganon, the leader of the thieves, wished it, this world was transformed..."
(6) See A Link to the Past; GBA Manual. "After many years, an opening was found that led from our fair Hyrule to the Golden Land, where the mystical Triforce was still hidden. Many sought treasure in this place, but none returned--Only beings of great evil emerged from the Golden Land."
(7) See A Link to the Past; Introduction Cutscene.
(8) http://www.ign.com/articles/2013/05/02/zelda-link-to-the-past-2-will-feature-dark-world. Macdonald, Keza. IGN report: " In an interview with Cnet, Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma has said that like the 1992 original, this year's sequel to The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past will feature a Dark World."
May 14, 2013
Lore: The Master Sword (Revisited)
For some time now this article has been at the top of popular posts. I want to revisit this article to make sure that the information is correct, and that if any information is missing that I attempt to locate it and add it. Blue will equal new information, and bad information/irrelevant information will be crossed out with a line.
WARNING: THIS ARTICLE CONTAINS SPOILERS ABOUT SKYWARD SWORD.
Object: The Master Sword
Origins: Link
Recovered: throughout the series
Appearance: Skyward Sword, Ocarina of Time, A Link to the Past, Twilight Princess, Wind Waker, Oracle of Ages/Seasons
Introduction:
The Master Sword has a peculiar aura about it: the blade of evil's bane cannot be touched by evil. The only person who can actually wield the blade would be the Goddesses chosen hero. According to legend, the sword was crafted by the ancient sages (according to legend) to repel evil.In actuality, the
Goddess Sword, created by the Goddess Hylia, was infused with three
magical flames that brought about the creation of the Master Sword.
The Master Sword was created from the Goddess Sword. The Goddess Sword was an instrument created by the goddess Hylia to be used to combat evil. Should Demise (or according to legend, a powerful evil force)
reincarnate, this weapon would become necessary.
Early in it's history, the Master Sword served as both a weapon against evil and as a key for time travel. After the events of Skyward Sword, many evil hearts somehow penetrated the Sacred Realm in their quest for the Triforce. When the sages noticed this, Rauru, the sage of light constructed the Temple of Time allegedly over the ruins of the sealed grounds in order to protect the Triforce. Since the Master Sword is so powerful, and can act as a key- it was a natural choice for protecting the only way to the sacred realm.
The sword was stored in the Sealed Grounds (old Temple of Hylia) and later in the Temple of Time (rumored to be built on the Sealed Grounds), guarded by an altar and the Door of Time. The Master Sword acts as more than just a weapon: it is the key that allows the wielder to access the Temple of Light, where the Triforce is located. The Temple of Time is merely train station A to get to the triforce at station B. The only weapons strong enough to defeat Ganon are the silver arrows and the Master Sword. In official canon, in the Japanese manual of A Link to the Past, the Master Sword was created long before the Imprisoning War.We now
know that the Master Sword will have its origins in the game Skyward
Sword. We now know that the Master Sword had its origins with the goddess Hylia and the goddess sword.
Before its transformation into the Master Sword, the Skyward Sword rested in Skyloft as the Goddess Sword.It is known, before the release
of the new Zelda game, that Fi, a spirit, merges with the Skyward Sword
to help its transition into the Master Sword. Fi, a spirit created by Hylia is the sole resident of the Goddess Sword and is the eventual spirit of the Master Sword. The blade is so powerful
that it is able to cure curses and break dark magic spells. Later, in the Wind Waker universe, sages
are required to power up the Master Sword after its power had waned
over the course of 150 some years. This loss of power does not occur in
every parallel universe, but it is hinted by the King of Red Lions that the maintenance of the blade's power is maintained by two additional sages: the Sage of Wind and Sage of Earth.
In Ocarina of Time, Link attempted to pull the sword out of the pedestal of time and succeeded.The sword sealed his soul away for seven years because the
sword felt he was not yet ready. The spirit of the sword, Fi will always determine it's owner by resonating with them and requiring them to undergo challenging trials. This is why Link was sealed away for seven years before the sword could feel that he is ready. During this time, Ganondorf roams about
for seven years causing the mayhem in the Adult timeline. The sword can
also seal an evil being if the blade is left impaled in them.
Later, in titles such as A Link to the Past and Twilight Princess, the blade remains forgotten in the Pedestal, surrounded by the ruins of the old Temple of Time. The way to the Temple of Light was closed long ago in these titles. Over the course ofhundreds of years a hundred years or two this ancient relic will begins to lose power:
and must receive the blessings of the Gods to be full (once again) of
evil's bane.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN CONFIRMED TO BE CANON
According to the Skyward Sword manga, the Master Sword was indeed forged by a band of courageous heroes who could be called sages. This manga blurs the line between the Goddess Sword and the Master Sword. The sword was given to a knight of Hylia, Link by the Goddess Hylia. When the sword, which could only be used by a God was touched by a human, it shattered. It was reforged and its power reinvigorated by the spirit of Link and the goddess herself. With the weapon, Hylia sundered the earth of many demons.
The Master Sword acted as a pillar to raise Skyloft up into the air. Hidden in Skyloft was an entrance to the Sacred Realm where the Triforce stayed. To protect it, Hylia sent up the plot of land into the sky along with the inhabitants of the kingdom. It was on that piece of land that Skyloft was formed. Before Hylia sacrificed her divinity to seal Demise, the sky was protected with a barrier that would keep evil out.
It is unclear after the Master Sword acts as the center pillar to lift Skyloft as to what actually happens to the blade. We do know however, that, according to the manga, the Master Sword became the Goddess sword with a resident spirit, created by Hylia, to guide the hero to the blade in times of danger.
If the manga is correct, it could then be argued that if the Master Sword lifted Skyloft into the air by creating a pillar that the Pedastal of Time is directly on or located near the point where the pillar was made.
Editor's Note
The source of some of this information was Zelda Wiki, the games themselves and Hyrule Historia. I will come back again when I get the full copy of Hyrule Historia to add more relevant information, if it exists. It is important to note that although I believe Zelda Wiki is correct and great in many respects, I believe some of the information is inaccurate, wrong or has weak evidence.
Origins: Link
Recovered: throughout the series
Appearance: Skyward Sword, Ocarina of Time, A Link to the Past, Twilight Princess, Wind Waker, Oracle of Ages/Seasons
Introduction:
The Master Sword has a peculiar aura about it: the blade of evil's bane cannot be touched by evil. The only person who can actually wield the blade would be the Goddesses chosen hero. According to legend, the sword was crafted by the ancient sages (according to legend) to repel evil.
Early in it's history, the Master Sword served as both a weapon against evil and as a key for time travel. After the events of Skyward Sword, many evil hearts somehow penetrated the Sacred Realm in their quest for the Triforce. When the sages noticed this, Rauru, the sage of light constructed the Temple of Time allegedly over the ruins of the sealed grounds in order to protect the Triforce. Since the Master Sword is so powerful, and can act as a key- it was a natural choice for protecting the only way to the sacred realm.
The sword was stored in the Sealed Grounds (old Temple of Hylia) and later in the Temple of Time (rumored to be built on the Sealed Grounds), guarded by an altar and the Door of Time. The Master Sword acts as more than just a weapon: it is the key that allows the wielder to access the Temple of Light, where the Triforce is located. The Temple of Time is merely train station A to get to the triforce at station B. The only weapons strong enough to defeat Ganon are the silver arrows and the Master Sword. In official canon, in the Japanese manual of A Link to the Past, the Master Sword was created long before the Imprisoning War.
Before its transformation into the Master Sword, the Skyward Sword rested in Skyloft as the Goddess Sword.
In Ocarina of Time, Link attempted to pull the sword out of the pedestal of time and succeeded.
Later, in titles such as A Link to the Past and Twilight Princess, the blade remains forgotten in the Pedestal, surrounded by the ruins of the old Temple of Time. The way to the Temple of Light was closed long ago in these titles. Over the course of
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION HAS NOT BEEN CONFIRMED TO BE CANON
According to the Skyward Sword manga, the Master Sword was indeed forged by a band of courageous heroes who could be called sages. This manga blurs the line between the Goddess Sword and the Master Sword. The sword was given to a knight of Hylia, Link by the Goddess Hylia. When the sword, which could only be used by a God was touched by a human, it shattered. It was reforged and its power reinvigorated by the spirit of Link and the goddess herself. With the weapon, Hylia sundered the earth of many demons.
The Master Sword acted as a pillar to raise Skyloft up into the air. Hidden in Skyloft was an entrance to the Sacred Realm where the Triforce stayed. To protect it, Hylia sent up the plot of land into the sky along with the inhabitants of the kingdom. It was on that piece of land that Skyloft was formed. Before Hylia sacrificed her divinity to seal Demise, the sky was protected with a barrier that would keep evil out.
It is unclear after the Master Sword acts as the center pillar to lift Skyloft as to what actually happens to the blade. We do know however, that, according to the manga, the Master Sword became the Goddess sword with a resident spirit, created by Hylia, to guide the hero to the blade in times of danger.
If the manga is correct, it could then be argued that if the Master Sword lifted Skyloft into the air by creating a pillar that the Pedastal of Time is directly on or located near the point where the pillar was made.
Editor's Note
The source of some of this information was Zelda Wiki, the games themselves and Hyrule Historia. I will come back again when I get the full copy of Hyrule Historia to add more relevant information, if it exists. It is important to note that although I believe Zelda Wiki is correct and great in many respects, I believe some of the information is inaccurate, wrong or has weak evidence.
February 27, 2012
Zelda Skyward Sword Review
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE CONTAINS STORY SPOILERS.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE CONTAINS MECHANIC SPOILERS.
WARNING: THE FOLLOWING ARTICLE CONTAINS MECHANIC SPOILERS.
Well my adventure is finally over. Skyward Sword took me about 46 hours to complete- something I would like to call a "good video game". To compare the game for a second, I finished Fallout 3 in about 33 hours. Nintendo is known for their games, and I didn't hesitate to preorder this game when I could. I avoided spoilers like the plague- and it was well worth it. Let's talk about the game shall we?
Skyward Sword harkens to a "truer" RPG
Miyamoto stated that "Twilight Princess" would be the final Zelda game as you see them in their current form. Skyward Sword (herein abbreviated "SS") takes the winning formula of the Zelda series and further enhances it. Link is now bound by more "RPG'ish" elements, such as wear on his shield, pendants that enhance his abilities, extra pouches and quivers, and the ability to upgrade weaponry and infuse potions. Never before have we been able to accomplish any of this. Nintendo chose to follow the Zelda formula instead of adding experience points.
Boring tasks such as ladder climbing, vine climbing and walking have been shortened by the addition of bursting or leaping. In addition, Link's items can be split into two different types: pouch items and inventory items. Most dungeon weapons are the latter type: some weapons make an appearance, but many new tools have entered Link's arsenal. Enter the Beetle Bug Drone and the Whip.
Dungeons
They didn't skimp on dungeons, despite what seems to be evidence to the contrary. There are 7 dungeons in the game to explore, and each offer unique challenges. SS will exercise your brain to the point of exhaustion for puzzle loving gamers. In this game, you are forced to try new things you have never done before, such as picking up a plant blob with your sword and lobbing it. In other cases, such as in the fight with boss #2, use your experience from previous games (if you have it) to pull a "King Dodongo" (throw a bomb in the mouth). Fear not- Nintendo has added a in-game help system (through a Sheikah stone in Skyloft) that will provide hints to hard puzzles. Dungeons have been streamlined, but are still huge. Instead of having rooms every which way with a lack of continuity- you get a sense of where you need to go and what you need to do well into the meta-game.
Lore
SS takes Zelda lore, flips it on it's head, and then turns it inside out. This game was one heck of a Zelda adventure, pure and simple. With the advent of new technology and expanded capabilities, Zelda games become richer, larger and more meaningful. SS is no exception. We learn more of the origins of the Triforce, original races, the crafting of the Master Sword, and why evil is so damn persistent in ruining things.
It is the Goddess Hylia who has chosen to reincarnate into a mortal in order to use the power of the Triforce. Apparently, if you have eternal life or are a deity- you cannot use the Triforce. Hylia begot this privilidge, but before doing so crafted the Goddess Sword and Fi. Fi was imbued into the blade and slept for ages within the Goddess Sword. Here is an excerpt from my Zelda compendium, on what I call the Great Demon War:
"Evil forces began crawling forth from the Earth. Their leader, Demise, seeks the Triforce for his own ambitions to conquer the surface and to create his own world. The demons slay countless people. One day, the Goddess Hylia sends the Triforce, along with the remaining humans up beyond the clouds in what would become Skyloft. The remaining humanoid races and Hylia defeat demise and seal him within the Imprisoned, inside the Sealed Grounds. Fi is created along with the Goddess Sword to act as a fail safe. Hylia entrusts the Sheikah to protect future incarnations of herself as she sacrifices her divinity in order to use the Triforce for good."
There are many websites out there that act as a sort of wikipedia for Zelda- but I have found that they have many flaws or injected "facts" that are simply not true, and need to be put in a theory column. And so I have my own personal compendium I am working on, which clearly states what is fact or theory. At the end of the game:
"Link wishes on the triforce to exterminate the Imprisoned in the present time. He travels back 5000 (thousands of years) years to defeat Ghirahim (Demise’s weapon) and Demise. Denizens of Skyloft begin to descend from the clouds as they [clouds] begin to clear. On Demise’s prophecy, he would reincarnate himself into another epoch, with his hatred knowing no bounds. Fi is dissolved into the Master Sword and ceases to be. The final essences of Demise remain in the Master Sword, and over time will cease to be."
"Evil forces began crawling forth from the Earth. Their leader, Demise, seeks the Triforce for his own ambitions to conquer the surface and to create his own world. The demons slay countless people. One day, the Goddess Hylia sends the Triforce, along with the remaining humans up beyond the clouds in what would become Skyloft. The remaining humanoid races and Hylia defeat demise and seal him within the Imprisoned, inside the Sealed Grounds. Fi is created along with the Goddess Sword to act as a fail safe. Hylia entrusts the Sheikah to protect future incarnations of herself as she sacrifices her divinity in order to use the Triforce for good."
There are many websites out there that act as a sort of wikipedia for Zelda- but I have found that they have many flaws or injected "facts" that are simply not true, and need to be put in a theory column. And so I have my own personal compendium I am working on, which clearly states what is fact or theory. At the end of the game:
"Link wishes on the triforce to exterminate the Imprisoned in the present time. He travels back 5000 (thousands of years) years to defeat Ghirahim (Demise’s weapon) and Demise. Denizens of Skyloft begin to descend from the clouds as they [clouds] begin to clear. On Demise’s prophecy, he would reincarnate himself into another epoch, with his hatred knowing no bounds. Fi is dissolved into the Master Sword and ceases to be. The final essences of Demise remain in the Master Sword, and over time will cease to be."
and, according to theory:
"Zelda wishes to remain on the
surface, and likely Link does as well. She wants to protect the Triforce, and
to do this, sages will eventually be appointed to construct the Temple of Time
around the Temple of Hylia (demolishing the old temple in the process). The
Oocca, a bird like people, assist in modifying the Master Sword to act as a key
to the Sacred Realm, where Link originally obtained the Triforce. Sages are
appointed (awakened by the Destiny of the Goddess, Hylia) to construct the
Temple of Time and to keep guard of the Sacred Realm. To act as keys, three
sacred stones are dispersed throughout the races of the new Kingdom. The Royal
family will hold onto the final key, the Ocarina of Time. As the Triforce is
returned to the Sacred Realm, peace at last returns to the surface world of
Hyrule. Until rumors begin spreading around about a Golden Power in the land; a
power that will make any desire come true."
Along with the prophecy of Demise, this would set forth events for Ocarina of Time.
What could be wrong with such a masterpiece of a game?
There are several points I want to touch on that hinder SS from it's "perfect score" title.
Control Learning Curve, some Slips
There is a learning curve to the controls. I am not saying this is necessarily a negative- but it was frustrating dying (lol) or falling due to not mastering the controls. The larger negative was the controls slipping once in a while. Shield ready, the sword would lock into place occasionally. The camera was awkward at times, but forgivable. One could argue "that is a problem with the user", but at times things did not go the way I intended them to, despite pressing the correct buttons or performing the proper motion.
Silent Realm was ridiculous
I didn't enjoy the silent realm. It wasn't difficult- after two or three attempts you learn where all of the tears are. This aspect of the game forces you to love the land you are on- know it well and the trial is a breeze. However, should anything hit you- you start all over. This will be particularly frustrating to newcomers to the game, but gamers with experience in Zelda games should have no problem with this aspect. The trials were meaningful to the story, but probably could have been done in another way.
I hope you like collecting *&^%
At times you will feel that the constant demand of collecting things will wear you down. This feeling will turn to annoyance as Link has his stuff stolen, and you need to get the stuff back. Or you need to collect the tadnodes.... etc. Zelda is all about collecting stuff, but balances this with combat, story, puzzle solving, etc. SS takes collecting on steroids- and to a whole new level. Why can't I just talk to the dragon? perhaps I want it the easy way, but then again the entire nonsense feels like filler time. *sigh*.
The Imprisoned Boss Design
Poor. This fight was only difficult during round 3 of the fiasco. It is difficult to get in to attack the beast without those red stomps slamming you back. What's worse- if you are near the edge, you can be tail swiped, and royally screwed. If you miss with the Groosenator you are done. This encounter could have been designed much better, and I had a foul distaste towards the mechanics here.
Pop Up Spam
This is a problem that stems from Twilight Princess. Collect a rupee, or in particular- a bug or a treasure, and EVERY TIME, the game wants to give you a wall of text about the item. This is unnecessary and stupid. Why not have flying text stating what you caught or acquired, and show the image above his head? Waste of my time, and this should have been rectified in SS. It was not.
Control Learning Curve, some Slips
There is a learning curve to the controls. I am not saying this is necessarily a negative- but it was frustrating dying (lol) or falling due to not mastering the controls. The larger negative was the controls slipping once in a while. Shield ready, the sword would lock into place occasionally. The camera was awkward at times, but forgivable. One could argue "that is a problem with the user", but at times things did not go the way I intended them to, despite pressing the correct buttons or performing the proper motion.
Silent Realm was ridiculous
I didn't enjoy the silent realm. It wasn't difficult- after two or three attempts you learn where all of the tears are. This aspect of the game forces you to love the land you are on- know it well and the trial is a breeze. However, should anything hit you- you start all over. This will be particularly frustrating to newcomers to the game, but gamers with experience in Zelda games should have no problem with this aspect. The trials were meaningful to the story, but probably could have been done in another way.
I hope you like collecting *&^%
At times you will feel that the constant demand of collecting things will wear you down. This feeling will turn to annoyance as Link has his stuff stolen, and you need to get the stuff back. Or you need to collect the tadnodes.... etc. Zelda is all about collecting stuff, but balances this with combat, story, puzzle solving, etc. SS takes collecting on steroids- and to a whole new level. Why can't I just talk to the dragon? perhaps I want it the easy way, but then again the entire nonsense feels like filler time. *sigh*.
The Imprisoned Boss Design
Poor. This fight was only difficult during round 3 of the fiasco. It is difficult to get in to attack the beast without those red stomps slamming you back. What's worse- if you are near the edge, you can be tail swiped, and royally screwed. If you miss with the Groosenator you are done. This encounter could have been designed much better, and I had a foul distaste towards the mechanics here.
Pop Up Spam
This is a problem that stems from Twilight Princess. Collect a rupee, or in particular- a bug or a treasure, and EVERY TIME, the game wants to give you a wall of text about the item. This is unnecessary and stupid. Why not have flying text stating what you caught or acquired, and show the image above his head? Waste of my time, and this should have been rectified in SS. It was not.
That is about it. Don't let the negatives stop you from playing this game- it is a masterpiece that is to be enjoyed along with [The Wind Waker], [Majora's Mask], [Ocarina of Time] and [A Link to the Past]. Aside from the Imprisoned fight mechanics, all of the problems with this game are relatively minor, and won't detract from a wonderful gaming experience. A 93- a must buy game that is well worth the money.
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