Since The Wind Waker first landed in 2002, the Game Cube game has been a fan favorite. From the new adventure, vibrant character designs and memorable soundtracks, it’s no wonder that fans are longing to revisit the great seas and sail the waters again on the Nintendo Switch. Artist Emily E. (@emily.e.draws) decided they can’t wait any longer for Nintendo to announce a remaster or Nintendo Online drop of the beloved classic; so they brought the Switch to The Wind Waker instead, with a redesign of the little Rito Medli fit to turn heads in the Rito Village of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
Emily is a freelance illustrator based in Utah specializing in whimsical and fantasy themed illustrations. The Wind Waker was the first Zelda game they ever played and has held a special place in their heart ever since. The Rito, in particular little Medli, was a character that captured their heart and has become a favorite character. The first time they visited Rito Village in Breath of the Wild and heard the Dragon Roost Island theme weaved through the winds around the village, they cried with joy. In a moment of nostalgia they were inspired to bring life to Medli as if she was once a resident of this village too.
The Rito across all games are avian in appearance with characteristics such as wings, beaks, and talons. In The Wind Waker, their designs were more human with their bird features used in minimalistic fashion. Furthermore, Rito didn’t get their wings until adulthood, so if it weren’t for the beaks upon their face and the talons at their feet, they could blend in with the Hylians, complete with pointed ears. Breath of the Wild removed their human traits and transformed them into anthropomorphic birds with feathers across their bodies, wings, and curling talons all from a young age. Due to their different body types and skills, their clothing is vastly different. The Wind Waker adorned the Rito in simple tunics and accessories akin to the aesthetics of the game. Breath of the Wild provided more detailed fabric and intricate patterns designed to not restrict the birds during flight. All this in mind, Emily transformed the childish, coming of age Medli into a legendary warrior of the Rito tribe.
Emily’s redesign captures Medli’s optimism and uplifting personality through soft red eyes atop a small smile. While Medli tied her hair back into a ponytail in her adventures in The Wind Waker, here her hair is shaped into a long braid with two smaller beaded braids shaping her face. Emily also gave the Rito brown and white feathers across her body and wings, different to the stark white wings she was gifted by Valoo in The Wind Waker. The new color scheme suits the vibes of Breath of the Wild. Lastly, her blue dress has been transformed to match the common two piece outfits seen worn by the older Rito, patterned with red and gold to compliment. Her white scarf remains draped over her shoulders and she leaps to life off the page. The only thing missing is her sacred harp — unless Link has already claimed it from all his treasure hunting.
