the legend of zelda

Exclusive: Zelda 3DS 'feels totally different,' needs to be played in 3D

The Nintendo 3DS has already been through a lot. The first-ever glasses-less 3D portable console didn't have the most glamorous of launches when it hit the market more than two years ago. Tainted by an underwhelming batch of debut software, controversial 3D effect, and a disappointing battery life, the 3DS didn't have a whole lot going for it out of the gate.

If that wasn't enough of a burden, the 3DS was also forced to follow up the original DS, a predecessor that is approaching worldwide sales of 154 million units combined. It's the best-selling portable console of all time.

But in the 25 months since its release, the 3DS has made significant strides. A focus on the platform's online store and a hardware refresh with a much bigger screen and better battery have begun to right the ship. Most importantly, a bevy of compelling software has been made available -- though some have criticized the company's continual recycling of classic games. … Read more

'The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia' now a NYT best seller

It turns out that Hyrule isn't the only place Link can dominate.

The New York Times yesterday published its list of best-selling books for the week. Sitting atop the "Hardcover Advice & Misc." list is none other than "The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Historia," the book published last month by Dark Horse Books and Nintendo.

The title, which is described as "containing an unparalleled collection of historical information" on the famed franchise, is authored by Akria Himekawa. Zelda creator Shigeru Miyamoto and the franchise's current steward, Eiji Aonuma, are also given author … Read more

As the franchise turns 26, happy Zelda Day!

Heroes of Hyrule, please lay down your swords and shields. Today marks Zelda Day, and that means it's time to embrace the Triforce!

For a quarter of a century, gamers have been playing versions of the hit franchise, which has come out in 18 iterations across 11 gaming systems, ranging from the original NES console to the Nintendo 3DS handheld. Despite selling more than 60 million copies, some might not familiar with the premise, which offers an elegant blend of adventure, action, and puzzles. … Read more

Is The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword the Wii's last great game?

It became painfully obvious back in June at Nintendo's E3 2011 press conference that The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword would be the console's last blockbuster title. Come to think of it, Skyward Sword was the only Wii game the company even mentioned.

So does Skyward Sword deliver the precision sword controls that Wii owners have been dreaming of since day one? Or is it the final chapter of an era of clunky motion control? We've dusted off our Wii consoles to find out.

Jeff: First, a very happy 25th anniversary to The Legend of Zelda franchise. Thank you for making me feel really old.

Nintendo is justifiably proud to share the milestone with everyone who's picking up Skyward Sword for the Wii, as all copies come with a 25th anniversary music CD featuring all kinds of Zelda tunes.

It's safe to say that Skyward Sword marks the Wii's last hurrah, and thankfully, the latest Zelda game certainly ranks up there with some of the console's best offerings.

For starters, Skyward Sword looks as good as any game can ever hope to on the Wii. The art direction has been brilliantly conceived, taking full advantage of the system's specs, and using a few blurring tricks to make things appear like a gorgeous watercolor painting. … Read more