I’m a giant nerd about the Legend of Zelda series, and I’ve been having a ridiculous amount of fun with Echoes of Wisdom for the past few years. I especially love how Zelda uses the “echoes” of various monsters to help her navigate the world. There’s something so lovely and charming about a cute teenage girl summoning monster friends as she explores ancient ruins. Zelda really is living the dream.

I admire how sweet the tone of Echoes of Wisdom is. I appreciate that it’s a game intended for children, and I think it’s a great introduction to the Legend of Zelda series for younger players.

At the same time, I’m intrigued by the game’s hints of dark fantasy. Something that’s stuck with me across multiple playthroughs is how the people of Hyrule initially blame Zelda for the calamity that’s befallen their kingdom. Why was it so easy for them to believe that their princess was an evil sorceress? Was there perhaps a bit of substance to these rumors?

And, even if there wasn’t, did Zelda ever become so dispirited by the way she was treated at the beginning of the game that she felt tempted to misuse the power she’d been granted?

Given everything that happens to her, I think Zelda is allowed to be a little unhinged. As a treat. 🔥