Finally, Miyamoto spoke to us about the story and setting of the most anticipated of upcoming N64 games. The biggest news is that Ganon will return as the bad boy of Hyrule. As Zelda fans know, Ganon has a thing for the Triforce and Princess Zelda. In the new adventure, Zelda will once again fall into the villain's clutches.
Part of the game will explain why Ganon, once a lowly thief, became such a twisted despot. As for the setting, Miyamoto told us that the world "is a size that would be difficult to cross in an entire game day. That's why Link will be able to drive a vehicle." He didn't tell us exactly what sort of vehicle - a Linkoln, perhaps. Miyamoto also described several areas, mentioning mountains, valleys, a deep "fairy" forest, and the mythical Zola Lake. Surrounding Hyrule Castle will be a bustling town.
Other changes include ten sword motions and a "big, two-fisted sword." We'll also find several types of arrows and be able to shoot bows in different ways. EAD used motion capture for the fighting animations, so we can expect a high level of realism. In the videos we received, the animation looks fast and smooth. Some of the most impressive sights are the special effects such as fire, shifting lights and dramatic camera angles and pans for cinematic effects.
A big part of Zelda games has always been the puzzles. Miyamoto stressed that there will be some familiar types of puzzles, but there will be fresh approaches, too, such as the use of the Rumble Pak to give clues.
More than anything, Miyamoto wants players to feel as if they are going to a real place. We'd like to get there, too, but we'll all have to wait until early next year, which is the probable release time for Zelda 64.
