26-Sep-2001 Even if you've been sucked in by GBA's class launch line-up and its superior graphics, Zelda is one of a handful of titles that still shine on Nintendo's trusty old Color Even if you've been sucked in by GBA's class launch line-up and its superior graphics, Zelda is one of a handful of titles that still shine on Nintendo's trusty old Color
Sure, it doesn't boast the smooth 3D arenas of Tony Hawk's 2 and Rayman's lush scenery, but the refined gameplay in both Ages and Seasons surpasses any visual trick or special effect.
Though released at exactly the same time, they are very different. Both feature Link and share the same weapons and power-ups, but the maps and quests vary considerably. In Oracle Of Ages, Link finds a harp that warps him through time. Certain puzzles can only be solved by nipping into the past, altering the scenery by, say, planting a seedling, then scooting to the future when a huge great tree will have grown, allowing you to climb up and access another part of the level. Likewise, in Seasons you switch from Summer to Winter, freezing lakes to open new areas.
Visually they're nothing special n background scenery is basic and character animation is limited, but Zelda's fairytale charm means you'll overlook this and get caught up in the storylines. Like other Zelda games, the overall quests in Ages/Seasons are broken down into smaller missions. Chat to townsfolk and solve their problems to get new items, which will help you unlock the next bit of the game. It's basic but after completing a few errands, you'll be desperate see what Link's next mini-mission is.
But which one to buy? Ages is closer to Ocarina Of Time on N64, so anyone who's spent months devoted to exploring Hyrule will instantly gel here. Then again, Seasons is just as compelling, but is slightly easier and therefore better for rookies.
Thing is, you need to buy them both, because if you complete one, it unlocks stuff in the other. And if you play them on GBA, there are shops you won't normally find when playing on a GBC. That's Ł140 for the ultimate handheld experience. But then they are very good indeed.
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