The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes for the Nintendo 3DS presents a charming, though arguably flawed, multiplayer puzzle experience set within the Zelda universe.
The announcement of any new title bearing the “The Legend of Zelda” moniker invariably generates considerable buzz within the gaming community. Since its debut on the NES, Link’s adventures in the fantasy realm of Hyrule have remained a Nintendo staple. Despite recurring themes of rescuing the princess (often revealed to be Zelda herself), the allure of Hyrule’s rich universe persists. The Zelda franchise has delivered numerous classics, ranging from critically acclaimed titles like The Wind Waker to well-received remakes such as Majora’s Mask. Instead of the highly anticipated, open-world adventure previously showcased for the Wii U during various E3 presentations (though its release on that platform now seems unlikely, potentially reserved for the upcoming NX), we receive a smaller-scale 3DS title: The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes. While the 3DS, particularly the New 3DS, is a capable handheld device suitable for quality adventures, a 3D remake of Ocarina of Time might have been expected. However, we instead get a cute, yet atypical Zelda, puzzle game designed for three players – a decision that presents several challenges.
In essence, Tri Force Heroes centers on three Heroes of Time (Links), distinguished by color, who must cooperate to overcome obstacles and enemies within each level. Actions include lifting and throwing other Links (singly or in pairs), firing bows and arrows, and executing sword strikes at varying heights, dictated by the height of the “human pyramid.” Conceptually, Tri Force Heroes shares similarities with classic games like Trolls and Lost Vikings, which required players to utilize characters with distinct abilities to progress. In Tri Force Heroes, the Links are functionally identical, the primary difference (aside from costume color) being the ability to equip different secondary weapons, such as bombs or a bow and arrow. When playing solo, players control each Link in turn, switching between them via the touchscreen (inactive Links become invulnerable dolls awaiting their turn).
As a single-player puzzle game, Tri Force Heroes offers a degree of enjoyment and charm. The Zelda setting adds to the appeal, with familiar enemies and the collection of rupees to purchase enhanced outfits. The boss encounters are generally inventive, sometimes demanding careful thought and dexterity. While not an epic Zelda adventure, it provides reasonable entertainment in moderation.
The graphics are adequate, but not particularly impressive. The 3D effect is largely inconsequential, and the audio consists of classic Zelda sound effects and familiar melody loops associated with treasure discovery. The game loads quickly, and as is typical of Nintendo titles, it is well-polished and generally free of bugs requiring patches. The number of save slots is limited, and a save function after each level would be a welcome addition. However, in terms of technical execution and presentation, the game is satisfactory.
The multiplayer aspect, however, presents challenges – less due to technical issues and more to the implementation. Tri Force Heroes functions optimally in local multiplayer, where players can collaborate with two other 3DS users (regardless of whether they own the game) and discuss solutions, which sometimes require experimentation. Online play introduces significant difficulties. While connecting with other players and earning friend points functions without issue, the lack of a chat interface or messaging system proves detrimental. Players are limited to a set of icon-based exclamations such as “over here!”, “item”, “nooo!”, which provide limited assistance when attempting to communicate solutions to teammates who may not grasp the intended approach. This can lead to frustrating scenarios where players wander aimlessly, seemingly oblivious to the solution – often involving stacking upon each other and separating at precise moments – rendering communication through pre-set icons inadequate. In these situations, the single-player experience may prove more rewarding.
Consequently, the core premise of a multiplayer puzzle game is somewhat undermined. The reliance on exactly three players, rather than a more flexible two-player option, also poses a practical problem. It’s not always easy to find two other players with 3DS consoles readily available. This often leaves the player with the single-player mode, which, while functional and occasionally engaging, is best enjoyed in short bursts. While the magic fairy offers the option to skip levels in exchange for a reduced bonus (essentially a form of cheating), the game lacks the compelling depth to sustain prolonged engagement, despite the frequent Zelda references incorporated into each level.
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