Four Swords Adventures is the second foray into the Zelda series’ various experiments with multiplayer. Instead of a connected world or gripping story, players (which can be up to four if you have the right equipment) are given a gauntlet of linear levels to fight their way through, while collecting as many Force Gems as possible. The tone of this fun, laid-back adventure is also reflected in its music, and a good example can be found in the song that plays during stages in its first chapter.
Given its gameplay design, you can probably tell that the Hyrule presented in Four Swords Adventures is more of a theme park than a sandbox. Its theme park sensibilities are even echoed in this song, as it’s very focused on trying to communicate how “The Legend of Zelda” it is. The melody contains several variations of the jumping down a fourth, re-centering, then walking up a fifth motion that hearkens back to the original overworld theme from the original Legend of Zelda. The key is G major, like Ocarina of Time’s Hyrule Field theme. Four Swords Adventures even uses the same sound samples as the two N64 games for its music.
All of this, paired with its upbeat tempo and march-like percussion, gives a joyful backing to the journey. This game is designed to be played in quick sessions with friends, more about simple item-based puzzles and mowing down enemies than intricate dungeons or meaningful plot beats. In other words, Four Swords Adventures is here for a good time, not a long time. Indeed, there are times when I’m feeling down, and I want something simple to lift my spirits. I need something different from whatever I’m playing or watching at the time. Some comfort food that isn’t very involved or makes me think or feel too much. Something like Four Swords Adventures.
I don’t know when or even if we shall return to a multiplayer Zelda. The last game to try it was Tri Force Heroes back in 2015, and most of the time these games are left forgotten or overshadowed by their more prestigious cousins. However, I do think there is a place in the Zelda series for games like these, and at least I know I can always return to the adventures that are already in place.
