The wait is almost over. A Link Between Worlds will be here in less than two weeks. To prepare us for the launch, GameXplain created a video answering fans’ questions on the upcoming game’s dungeons, controls, gameplay, items and similarities to its predecessor, A Link to the Past. To find out what they had to say, hit the jump. Be warned, there are spoilers aplenty!
Controls
- Controls are very similar to ALttP
- Press B to swing the sword, press and hold B for spin attack
- Use the A button for talking to people, picking up items and opening chests
- X and Y buttons are for items such as Bombs and the Bow
- The right trigger raises the shield while the left trigger activates the Pegasus Boots
- D-pad controls the camera
- There are no gyro controls
Items
- Ravio is introduced within the first 30 minutes
- Items for rent/sale in Ravio’s shop are a requirement for completing the game
- Everything you need to beat the game can be found early on
- Purchasing is optional but beneficial, allowing for item upgrades plus you get to keep everything if you die
- Equipment from Ravio’s shop utilizes the stamina meter, with each item requiring a different amount of stamina
- Rupees are easy to come by. You can earn them by cutting grass, opening chests and destroying enemies–the usual methods.
- Additional items can be found outside of Ravio’s shop that are not necessary for beating the game
Dungeons
- Everyone does the same initial dungeon, after that you’re free to explore as you choose
- Each dungeon has its own musical theme
- About the same number of dungeons as ALttP
- Optional mini-dungeons
Gameplay
- Classic Zelda experience
- Maintains a consistent frame rate that’s “smooth as butter”
- Becoming a painting is a major part to the game
- Variety of sidequests
- Majora’s Mask makes a cameo appearance in Link’s house
- Typical replay value with Hero Mode unlocking after completion of the first quest
- Quick travel is possible
- Completing the game at 100% takes approximately 18 hours
Comparison to ALttP
- It’s not necessary to play ALttP before playing ALBW, although it’s more rewarding for those who have
- More freedom than ALttP
- Familiar elements to ALttP in the way of locations, puzzles and monsters, but it’s very much its own game
- The game is about 50% references to ALttP and 50% original content
- Doesn’t tell the story of what happened to Link and Zelda after ALttP
Challenge
- The challenge can vary from person to person
- Strictly renting items as opposed to purchasing presents more of a challenge since there are no upgrades to rentals and you lose them if you die
- Not much hand-holding. After the first dungeon you’re pretty much on your own with the exception of the occasional sign or statue
A Link Between Worlds comes out November 22nd. We hope you’re as excited as we are! You can watch the full Q&A video below.
[youtube]1QVdkvxCCy4[/youtube]
Source: GameXplain
