Hey! Listen! A Look at the Problems of Link’s Companions

The Legend of Zelda is a series very largely rooted in tradition. While some may consider this is a very positive thing, others quote it as being the downfall of the entire franchise. Many aspects of the game such as varied item usage, or an overworld -> dungeon -> boss -> rinse and repeat formula, have stuck around since the very first game and haven’t let go since. Other traditions, such as the Master Sword or using a musical instrument, came in later down the line, but are nevertheless series staples today. However, one tradition that Joe Love feels Nintendo should drop for one of its next releases is the use of a helping companion character who walks you through the game.

[mdprime]

Interesting idea, though I don't see Nintendo doing it on the basis that Link himself doesn't talk. The companion character is there to speak on his behalf when engaging in dialogue with other characters. It would be nice if they appeared less and stopped telling you the obvious though.

[mike1up]

Nice read.

I am currently replaying Twilight Princess right now, and I could not agree more about Midna.

[Patriots_Pride]

Links companions are just tutorials and have no personalty - its hard for me to get attached them and have any emotional connection with them.

Ebona is ok but still has no character and is just a horse that takes you from point A to B. Agro from Shadow of Colossus is a perfect example of what a horse should be like.

Navi is just hey look here, what is that, hit this - she needs to be more opinionated like Cortana and have a more I am more that just a tutorial personalty.

Midna was a step in the right direction but the fact that she was a useless as my wisdom tooth made her feel just like a Navi 2.

[mike1up]

How was Midna useless?

It is impossible to kill Shadow Beast, and Ganondorf's Beast-form without Midna. Midna's character was also absolutely crucial to the story. She is, after all, the Twilight Princess.

[Patriots_Pride]

Yes she was the main plot of Twilight Princess.

What I mean with useless is that she basically did not do anything when you were fighting enemies and really did not serve any purpose in battles - they could have easily replaced Midna with a special sword that kills the shadow beast and add some devise or gadget for those hard for those hard to reach places.

[CouldHaveYelledUiiW]

Look-up NAVI & MF DOOM on the YouTubes dere!

[CouldHaveYelledUiiW]

Navi and MF Doom Sample. >>>Also the Ocarina of Rhyme series (Link not included [pun]) is interesting Lon Lon Ranch Racing Theme as a Beat?...
http://www.youtube.com/watc...

[oldfriend86]

I wasn't in love with Ezlo, but I guess I liked him enough. He came off as an asshole.

I kinda agree about Midna, but she was still strange. I wasn't feeling the whole "twili" atmosphere in a Zelda game.

I think out of all of them, I'd say King of Red Lions was the best companion. I never got annoyed, seeking hints from him felt more natural being the old, wise king, (spoiler!) but I liked him the most because of his impact on the story. Everything about Wind Waker felt like "Legend", rather than happening in the moment like in other Zelda games.

Oh and Zelda's soul during Spirit Tracks was another of my favorites. Most Zeldas act as the useless chick, THIS Zelda however had personality. My favorite princess Zelda to date.