Here we have it, the most exciting and interesting thing to have resulted from tonight’s middling awards show: an off-screen gameplay demo for The Legend of Zelda Wii U!
Though it’s nothing substantial, this first real look at the game does a good job of piquing one’s interest, even though it’s essentially combat-free and merely focuses on the game’s map, sheet sailing, horse riding and unique GamePad controls. Still, it’s early, and it’s hard not to become excited after seeing this, especially since it proves that the game truly does exist.
The demo begins with our hero walking along a path, en route to the top of a giant cliff. Once there, he takes out a set of binoculars and uses them to spot a precarious-looking tower, which then becomes his next point of interest in what is apparently a large open world. Thus begins a parasailing trip downward, though we don’t get to see it all, as things quickly switch to an encounter with Epona. Yes, Epona returns in The Legend of Zelda Wii U, and is once again a helpful asset like she was in Ocarina of Time.
Once Epona is brought into play, the rest of the short demo is all about her and the new mechanics that make riding her a breeze. Apparently they make it hard to hit trees.
Take a look at the gameplay demo for The Legend of Zelda Wii U above and let us know what you think? Is it enough to whet your appetite? Or, are you disappointed that we didn’t get to see more from what is quite possibly the medium’s most anticipated release? Sound off below!