Discussion Continues with the Programmer, Volume 9: The Saga of Zelda's Tears of the Kingdom - Episode 4
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, the highly-anticipated sequel to Breath of the Wild, is set to launch on Friday, May 12. This latest instalment in the beloved series brings a host of new features, with the Ultrahand mechanic taking centre stage as a unique gameplay innovation.
In Tears of the Kingdom, players can physically connect and manipulate objects creatively within the world, a feature that sets it apart from Breath of the Wild's more traditional action-adventure mechanics. This level of player-driven construction and creativity expands the open-world adventure experience by letting players combine materials and objects in ways that were not possible in its predecessor.
The Ultrahand mechanic fits well with the game's overall emphasis on exploration and experimentation, adding a new layer to puzzle-solving and combat. While the previous game focused on survival and environmental interaction like climbing and cooking, Tears of the Kingdom takes it further by integrating building and mechanical innovation directly into gameplay, giving players more freedom and customization options.
Players can create a variety of structures and machines using the Ultrahand, from simple tools to complex contraptions. They don't need to worry about being good at making things; they can create something longer by attaching two long objects together. A unique sound effect was developed for the "attaching sound" in the game, to give players a feeling of accomplishment as they attach and detach objects.
The game also introduces the Zonai Devices, a unique ability that allows players to generate wind or move objects. These devices can be used to create absurd items like an omni-directional flamethrower. The Zonai Devices' power is represented visually as a battery, not a traditional magic gauge, making them more intuitive for players to understand.
The developers behind Tears of the Kingdom discuss the concept of "breaking the conventions of sequels" for this title, and how it led to the inclusion of many new elements. The comical expression of the fun of sticking things together and the use of magic in the game is typical of the Legend of Zelda series. Even random combinations can result in something with a nice handmade feel, symbolizing the fun of the Ultrahand mechanic.
The sound design for Tears of the Kingdom was influenced by the need for realistic and unrefined sounds in the Legend of Zelda games. The Fuse ability in this game allows players to build weapons by combining items, adding another layer of creativity to the gameplay experience. The developers worked hard to ensure a wide variety of combinations for both Ultrahand and Fuse abilities, with the goal of allowing players to experiment and find their favorites.
The initial concept of the game was to use the "supernatural power" of an unknown civilization, but the items ultimately became home appliances to make them recognizable for players. This decision fits well with the game's overall emphasis on exploration and experimentation, allowing players to discover and interact with familiar objects in new and exciting ways.
In the ninth volume of Ask the Developer, an interview with the developers behind Tears of the Kingdom offers insights into the development process and the thought behind the game's unique features. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom promises to be a game filled with creativity, exploration, and fun, and is sure to be a hit with fans of the series.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, due on May 12, showcases a unique gameplay mechanic, Ultrahand, which lets players manipulate objects creatively, expanding the open-world adventure experience.
- With the Ultrahand mechanic, players can build structures and machines, even combining materials in unexpected ways, offering more customization options and deepening the gameplay.
- The Zonai Devices in Tears of the Kingdom allow players to generate wind or move objects, enabling them to create absurd items like an omni-directional flamethrower.
- Nintendo Switch, where Tears of the Kingdom will be available, hosts a plethora of entertainment, including a beloved series like The Legend of Zelda, offering a multitude of creative gadgets built upon technology.
