The Wednesday letters page responds to the Zelda Nintendo Direct, with readers offering mixed reactions to the Ocarina of Time remake. While many praise its fidelity to the original, others express disappointment that it does not go further in modernising the classic.
Mixed Reactions to the Direct
One reader, Arteta26Legend, said the footage "didn't disappoint" and appears to stay "quite faithful to the original," with only a few extra elements that "shouldn't detract from what made it such a great game in the first place." They praised the timing of the release, noting it is strategic given another major game launches the same month.
Another reader, freeway 77, described the Direct as "worth the wait" and "all I wanted and more," calling it a "sympathetic remake" with "just the right amount of extras" and "previously static backdrops now fully realised."
Calls for a 1:1 Remake
However, one reader, Simon, said they would prefer a 1:1 remake, similar to what was done with Star Fox, updating graphics and music but not adding new mechanics. They argued that if significant changes are made, "it isn't really Ocarina Of Time."
Another reader, Panda, called the presentation "a missed opportunity" and said the game "looks beautiful and will clearly be the best way to play the game from now on," but criticised the lack of dungeon redesigns and seamless transitions between areas, which they felt was a "massive fumble."
Anticipation and Practical Concerns
Rob Taylor, Attorney at Bird Law, said the Direct made Christmas "more expensive," particularly praising quality-of-life features like no loading screens in shops, jump, dash, and camera control. They noted the release is "14 days before GTA" and expressed concern about the cost of the 40th anniversary console.
Matc7884 said the presentation was "a bit dry" but the trailer made them "can't wait to play," though they are "running out of time and spare cash" with only three pay days left before Christmas. They also mentioned a growing backlog of games, including Star Wars Zero Company and Screamer.
Nick The Greek said they will buy the Ocarina of Time game "no matter what it ends up as," calling it "an all-time classic." They also expressed hope for Mario Kart World DLC and a Star Fox expansion.
