The Zelda series is memorable for too many reasons to count. The tales it tells are certainly memorable. The characters have won our hearts. Even the enemies bring fans a fair amount of glee, leaving us wondering what each new incarnation will look like. There’s just so much to love about this beloved series. That’s what makes this art entitled “The Legend of Zelda” by MaximoVLorenzo so amazing. No matter what your favorite creature or character is, they are likely to be there. So let’s settle in and give this one a good look while we play “Where’s Gibdo”?
Starting with the hero himself, Link takes center stage, swinging through the frame using the Hookshot. His outfit, while not one-hundred percent accurate seems most similar to the 8-Bit tunic. This is further reinforced by the sword in his hand which doesn’t resemble the Master Sword as we’ve become used to, but a more simple blade. The Hookshot itself has a pixelated look which adds to the retro feel of this piece, and its introduction in A Link to the Past implies that we could be looking at that hero rather than the original. Whether processed using 8 or 16-bits, it is clear that this is a hero from the series’ distant past. Looking at the little lad’s face provides viewers with a laugh, and he looks clearly startled at the vast wave of enemies and items flooding towards him as if threatening to overwhelm him.
Immediately to the left of Link are some friendly faces: Princess Zelda and a few faeries. The little, winged helpers flutter nearby ready to fill the hero’s health should he fall, and Zelda sends forth her own version of a heart to give Link courage to keep fighting.
Continuing our counterclockwise journey, we see a Blade Trap and a Rope that is meeting it’s demise thanks to a skillfully shot arrow. In the background, we see some pixelated items as well as a scene very reminiscent of some art from the NES adventure’s instruction booklet. The Triforce sits in the lower center of the art just as it often rests at the center of Link’s adventures, but a treacherous Octorock has its tentacles on it, trying to keep the hero from claiming it.
The bottom right shows off Link’s archery skills again as a Stalfos crumbles to bony bits as an arrow slices through its spine. Above it, a small horde of old school Moblins rush forward, spears ready to attack. An oft-forgotten series boss, Digdogger floats behind. Its ominous eye and floating tentacles searching for an arm or leg to rip off.
To the right of our hero, are yet more enemies. An Armos stands as a still, silent guard. The tri-horned Dodongo prepares to charge while the crab-like Gohma turns its eye towards it’s enemy. A rather happy looking Pols Voice also scampers forward, but remember to keep quiet lest it runs for the hills. Though the pixelated bomb resting nearby may keep that from happening anyway.
Finally, we reach the upper right quadrant where Ganon, who resembles his form that originated in the SNES adventure, looms in front of a shadowy castle. His eyes glow with malevolent intent as he grasps his trident, imagining a hero kabob. Surrounding him are a wave of foes and a few friends. A closer look beneath the porcine terror reveals some River Zora, a Wizrobe, and quite possible the cutest Keese ever. To the left of Ganon is the Old Man or a sage along with a witch who is busily making potions. Someone has to keep our heroic boy alive! But who is that beneath Ganon’s left arm? It’s him?! Her? It’s Gibdo! We found that scamp!
Almost any Zelda fan can find something to love about this art that MaximoVLorenzo has filled with a tidal wave of love. It’s fun to search through the cast, looking for your favorite. Or you can always do as I did and play, ‘Where’s Gibdo?’ Feel free to replace that wrapped rascal with your favorite menacing monster. Have fun!
