Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker  (GameCube)

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Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (GameCube Games)

Since the debut of The Legend of Zelda in 1987, all of Link's games have been the stuff of legend--universally appealing adventures that emerged as beloved triumphs of gameplay, presentation, innovation, graphics and fun. In the ninth entry in the series, Link debuts on GCN with a fun new cel-shaded look, but the game stays true to the glorious heritage of the series.

The classic mix of sword-swinging action, perplexing puzzles and stirring story lines remains intact, but the stunning cel-shaded graphics give the people and places of Link's watery world a wildly artistic new look. And for the very first time, Link sails freely on the high seas!

Legend has it that whenever evil has appeared, a hero named Link has risen to defeat it. In The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, that legend continues on the surface of a great and mysterious sea as Link sets off on his most epic and scenic adventure yet. Aided by a magical conductor's baton called the Wind Waker, he will face unimaginable monsters, explore puzzling dungeons, and meet a cast of unforgettable characters as he searches for his kidnapped sister, Aryll.

Link must travel across a sprawling ocean known as the Great Sea. As he sails from one island to the next on a magnificent boat that calls itself the King of Red Lions, wind plays a key role. For Link to visit a particular location, the wind has to be blowing in the proper direction. Even if the wind is cooperating, Link must pay careful attention to his Sea Chart and compass as he sails. When he first sets sail on the Great Sea, most locations are so far away that they aren't even visible! What if Link needs to reach an island to the west and the wind is blowing to the east? That's when the Wind Waker comes in handy. Using the Wind Waker, Link can conduct a magical song which allows him to control the direction of the wind.

Link has a whole new array of weapons and items to help him fulfill his fate. The Grappling Hook allows Link to freely swing over large gaps, and the Spy Glass gives him a close-up view of distant objects. Some items, like the Bomb, have dual functions. If Link uses the Bomb while he's on the King of Red Lions, it will turn into a powerful cannon. The Grappling Hook transforms into a treasure-trolling crane while Link is on the boat.

Whether you've been playing Zelda games since the '80s or you're about to embark on your first Zelda quest, The Wind Waker's adventurous spirit will capture your heart and mind.
--Nintendo Power