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13 Things You Need to Know about Twilight Princess

• By Bones
• November 16, 2006 16:08 PM PST
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Can't decide if Link's latest adventure is for you? We break down everything you need to know about Twilight Princess.

The GameCube and Wii Versions Mirror Each Other

In the GameCube version, Link is left handed like normal, but in the Wii version he's a righty. Miyamoto himself decided that it would be more natural for players to swing right handed to match the movement most players would make in the real world. Reversing our hero's handedness affects the entire game, as the GameCube and Wii versions are mirror opposites of each other in every aspect, right down to level design (if a path bends right in one version, it'll bend left in the other), flip-flopped puzzles and cinemas!

Link's Still Mute (The Legend of Zelda: The Twilight Text Adventure)

The killer presentation doesn't carry over into the voice acting, because there isn't any. There are a few grunts, mumbles and indistinct giggles, but the story still relies on tons or text boxes for a true "old school" feel - which isn't bad thing considering the humorous nature of the quasi-erotic grunts and yelps. After nearly two decades of silence, do we really want to burst our nostalgic Zelda bubble with potentially lame voice acting? We think not.

Woof! You're a Werewolf (Sort of)!

If you still haven't heard by now, one of the biggest changes in Twilight Princess is Link's ability to transform into a biting, snarling, grey-furred wolf. Controlling the wolf is actually easier than swinging Link's sword, thanks to the sweeping, flailing attack style. Plus the cool extra-sensory powers and the ability to dig small tunnels and squeeze through tight places don't hurt either. And with an advice-dispensing demon riding on your back, there isn't much you can't accomplish (except bipedal walking).

Wild Wii Controls

Although the two versions are nearly the same, paying Twilight Princess on the Wii is a whole other experience, thanks to the awesome motion-sensing controller. It takes a little practice to master and hardcore fans will either love it or hate it, but the Wii controls offer a truly unique, one-of-a-kind Zelda experience. And it will be long. Nintendo reps rumor upwards of 100 hours of play. Hopefully this isn't a result of fumbling around the controls.

Darker Storyline (The World of Twilight is Dark...and Scary)

Twilight Princess' story is full of mysteries and dark, ominous characters, giving the game a unique and slightly more mature feel. Don't worry - this is still a Zelda game; but the welcome change in tone stands in stark contrast to Windwaker's cell-shaded sappiness.

It's Got that Killer Zelda Soundtrack

Longtime fans will appreciate the masterful reworkings of the classic Zelda tunes, as well as the beautiful new elements of the score. It might not have voice acting, but this is definitely a super-stereo-system worthy title. Plus, the Wii-mote's built-in speaker substantially adds to the immersive feel of the game. From the slashing of your sword to the drawing of your bow, the additional audio output creates a new way to experience Zelda.

Swordplay 101

In addition to his normal set of special rolling slashes and thrusting jabs, Link picks up a few new moves by way of his undead, zombified warrior teacher after howling alongside a golden wolf counterpart in a Simon-says type mini-game. After sparing with your phantom teacher, Link will acquire new skills (like a brutal overhead aerial plunge that finishes opponents on the ground), which he can practice before returning to the real world. With cool stabbing attacks, shield smashes, and finishing moves, Link is now a mean, elfish fighting machine.

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