Wii Zelda gets some major changes [update 1]

by Joystiq Staff { Aug 21st 2006 at 10:28AM }

Shigeru Miyamoto disclosed to Japan's Nintendo Dream publication that instead of pushing the B button on the Wiimote for a sword swing in Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, the player will now control that movement with the motion of his or her arm. IGN says during E3 that Nintendo said players would get tired having to actually swing the controller, but now Miyamoto has changed his tune: "Upon actually playing it, it's more interesting this way."

There have also been changes to how the bow and arrow controls will work. At E3, you had to aim with the Wiimote and then shoot using the D pad. Now that the B button is freed, thanks to a sword overhaul, the B button will now release the arrow. Miyamoto said shooting with the D pad was too difficult. He also hinted that the Zelda at E3 was "just the tip of the nail."

According to IGN, Miyamoto also told Nintendo Dream that Nintendo may remake existing GameCube titles and add full Wiimote support. "The machine is based on GC," said Miyamoto. "We'll be upgrading the development tools, but GameCube code can be used for the most part as is. In that sense, I believe that it would be good to remake GameCube games for Wii, and that some titles would become better with the change to the Wii remote controller."

Miyamoto said these revamped GameCube titles would be sold at a lower price than normal Wii games.

[Thanks, vidGuy and J.Goodwin]

[Update: Added GameCube info from separate IGN story]

Reader Comments (Page 1 of 3)

Henry @ Aug 21st 2006 10:34AM

You have made my day, thankyou! :)

Tyler @ Aug 21st 2006 10:36AM

I'm still torn as to which version I will get. I'll probably get the Wii version first, but if I don't enjoy it, I've always got the GameCube to fall back on. Sounds really cool so far though.

Tykin @ Aug 21st 2006 10:38AM

"Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess, the player will now control that movement with the motion of his or her arm. IGN says during E3 that Nintendo said players would get tired having to actually swing the controller, but now Miyamoto has changed his tune: 'Upon actually playing it, it's more interesting this way.'"

Hell yes!

Paul P. @ Aug 21st 2006 10:42AM

One interesting thing is that in the interview, the language he uses is "allow" the players to do that. Could that mean multiple control schemes?

swampdonkey @ Aug 21st 2006 10:42AM

I think this is a good change. People that will be complaining that they will be tired after ten minutes, seriously need some exercise in the first place. I'm not trying to be a jerk, but if your arms are tired after ten minutes, then your health should be your concern. NOT videogames.

LeFishy @ Aug 21st 2006 10:43AM

Sounds awesome....knackering but awesome.

Aran @ Aug 21st 2006 10:44AM

Great news! The nerd living in me is jumping up and down yelling WIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII! :)

P.s Best Zelda ever confirmed!

reebo @ Aug 21st 2006 10:45AM

I'm going to get both versions. I'll play the GC one to get the story and everything, and I'll use the Wii one just to play with the controls.

As for this news, all I can say is "great!" This is how I expected to play a Zelda game on Wii in the first place.

Paul P. @ Aug 21st 2006 10:45AM

Hey if you're going to add that info about GC remakes I think it would also only be fair to include that in the interview he said that games like that would be budget priced because they would be cheaper to make.

Fagaymer @ Aug 21st 2006 10:46AM

So basically those of you complaining about PS2 ports to PSP can basically start complaining about all of your ports on the Game Cube 1.5.

Paul P. @ Aug 21st 2006 10:47AM

I don't understand you at all reebo. Is the 'story and everything' not included in the Wii version? If you are apprehensive about the Wii's ability to control traditional games, you probably shouldn't be buying the console in the first place.

existonfile @ Aug 21st 2006 10:47AM

I never thought that would be a concern anyway. The Zelda games have never been about combat, this isn't God of War or Devil May Cry. Zelda is about exploration and adventure. Exploring vast, beautiful dungeons, while solving puzzles and avoiding traps. Combat was always supposed to be easy/fun, with the occasional boss that was really difficult. By using the wiimote to control the swinging of the sword, I think this adds more to the combat experience than it takes away from game as a whole.

Nintenfreak @ Aug 21st 2006 10:49AM

The WiiMote is beginning to worry me, while innovative I can see myself (and a lot of other folks) quickly growing tired of flailing about all the time while game playing. That's cool, the first 20 minutes or so, but during a 2 to 3 hour gaming session give me a normal controller. Hopefully nintendo will make games compatible with a regular controller in addition to the Wiimote

Please Nintendo don't $#U#O this up.

bentendo @ Aug 21st 2006 10:49AM

"Revamped GC games for the wii-mote"

One word. Two syllables:

PIKMIN.

How hard will that game rule with point and click play?!?!?!??!

ElD @ Aug 21st 2006 10:50AM

"I'm going to get both versions. I'll play the GC one to get the story and everything, and I'll use the Wii one just to play with the controls."

Has the story been removed from the Wii version to make room for the re-jigged controls, then?

Some people have more money than sense.

that guy @ Aug 21st 2006 10:52AM

I was always going to get the Wii version - this just gives me more reason to.

Marty @ Aug 21st 2006 11:00AM

8. So basically those of you complaining about PS2 ports to PSP can basically start complaining about all of your ports on the Game Cube 1.5.

No the problem with the PSP games are that they have inferior control scheme to their PS2 counterparts but cost twice as much!!!!

Enycma @ Aug 21st 2006 11:03AM

Dunno if I should take this as good news or not... It sounds nice in paper, but would it be good in practice? I really can't tell because I haven't used this. But I can tell it's going to become a big issue to those that are comfy with traditional controls. All I can say is that don't judge it until you've tried it. We can worry about it! But not whine because you're arms will get tired etc etc, when in real life you haven't even tried it. Maybe it is really as fun as it reads in paper!

H-QB @ Aug 21st 2006 11:03AM

Excellent!

And for the record, if you are in combat for more than 10 minutes at a given time (ie, you've been flailing your wrist for 10 minutes non-stop) ... you are doing something horribly wrong.

reebo @ Aug 21st 2006 11:05AM

@9

I'd just like to have both versions. I might not necessarily like the way TP plays on Wii, and would like to actually play the game.

reebo @ Aug 21st 2006 11:07AM

Hence GC version.

dvddesign @ Aug 21st 2006 11:08AM

How to get ready to play Wii games:
A Primer for lazy gamers

Go out and purchase a set of dumbbell weights. Start with about 10 lbs heavier as what would tire you after 30 reps.

Start doing reps EVERYDAY of these weights. Work your biceps, triceps, and shoulder muscle groups with various exercises.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Weight_training_exercises

With any luck, by november you'll be able to manage holding your own fat arm out in front of you for more than 15 minutes at a time. Remember, the Wii-mote weighs less than a pound, so it's not like it's picking up a book or anything.

Bryan @ Aug 21st 2006 11:10AM

I hope he means with your "wrist". I dont want to be thowing this thing around the room everytime I have to fight in the game. I doubt you will contol every angle of the sword anyway. This game is looking better every day.

Wayne @ Aug 21st 2006 11:11AM

ARRRRRGGGGGHHHHHHHHH, when are people gonna understand that you don't have to "flail your arms about". They have said that a small flick of the wrist can have the same effect as swinging your arms about.

ninx @ Aug 21st 2006 11:12AM

I like the idea. I still don't get "Flailing your arms for 3 hours".....Zelda doesn't feature constant combat and when it does I doubt we'll be throwing our arms everywhere (Then again I haven't played it; just speculating).

Personally if it features me getting tired after say an hour but it is more fun.....I am up for that sacrifice.. (Sort of like the old days with Fighting games and my thumbs, lol)

Anyways, I am really turned off by the whole Wii-Makes thing....Why?? We are looking to buy the console not only around intuitive controls but game's actually designed for it and new experiences in the game too.

Only a few titles I see basically "porting" straight to the Wii that will feel better are prob. Pikmin, Luigi's Mansion and F-Zero GX.
If they are marketed like the little GBA Old Classics things I'll be fine as they'll be cheaper and have some nice extras. But Just a few of them. Nothing overly major taking up time for the other Wii Titles.

obo @ Aug 21st 2006 11:17AM

So there's no way the Wii can download patches to add Wii functions to existing GC games, instead of us buying them all over again in packaging and cases?

If there ever was anything worth a micropayment, it'd be adding functionality with a new controller on a hardware-compatible system where emulation or fundamental changes in code aren't needed.

If all it takes is a code rewrite, that ought to be downloadable at a reasonable price. I'd easily buy the GC Zelda and spend $10 for the Wii patch, or $3-$10 to add Wiimote support to other GC games. Hell, if people like the Twilight Princess controls, people would probably line up to buy a Wii patch for Wind Waker.

Releasing another disc-and-packaging game sounds more like Nintendo's M.O., but I'd really like to see them turn the whole micropayment system on its head by offering substantial upgrades like Wiimote support to current-gen games.

Derbeste @ Aug 21st 2006 11:18AM

Enycma:

Read the article again. Miyamoto said they were going with "b" button to swing the sword initially because they, like the haters, thought swinging the sword might get tiring - at least, that's how it seemed on paper....

Ater trying it in real life to see how it would work, THEN they made the change.

It's Miyamoto....there is no one in the industry I trust more.

Wii version for me. I'm tired of "button masher" games anyway.

kylekyle @ Aug 21st 2006 11:27AM

As long as they don't cancel the GC version, then this is fine. I think this change really shows who Nintendo is going after for the Wii. Miyamoto never said that this control change wouldn't make you tired, because it will if you want to play it for an hour or two. Aside from swinging the sword around, you'll have to keep your arms relatively still or else you'll accidentally swing your sword or throw something with the nunchuck, for instance. Even if you could rest your arms and just use your wrists, it seems it would be even easier to make a mistake with the increased sensitivity. The Wii version, however, is not designed to be played for more than 20 minutes at a time because the system is aimed at people who don't play games and will rarely have the time or desire to play any longer.

That's why I'm getting the GC version.

Derbeste @ Aug 21st 2006 11:27AM

Existing GC games with Wii functionality?.....

RE4 anyone? >:)

Scott Jon Siegel @ Aug 21st 2006 11:27AM

I'm extremely uncertain as to whether the Wii version will in fact have better control than the Gamecube one. I'm made even more uncertain about which one to purchase knowing that the Wii version will not contain an option to use the Gamecube controller. We know that Wii games can support the Cube controller (Smash Bros. Brawl will use it), so why doesn't Nintendo just allow someone to toggle between the two in the Wii version?

Lou D @ Aug 21st 2006 11:29AM

Great news! I always thought it was odd that you could throw up the shield with your nunchuck hand but not swing with your sword hand.

I expect the adventure to have combat spurts and exploration sections. I don't think you'll be in combat for 3 straight hours.

If you think you will get tired after 10 minutes of Zelda, please go outside and pick up a basketball.

Maximoisgood @ Aug 21st 2006 11:42AM

Obo, now that's one heck of an Idea.

idioteraser @ Aug 21st 2006 11:43AM

Perhaps coding the gamecube controller to work on Zelda Wii was to much of a hassle? They do want people to buy the GC version after all so the difference does make sense when you think about that. If someone doesn't like the Wii control version they just go to the Used gaming store trade it in and buy the gc version. Or how about this people rent both versions and then try them out. If they like the gc version better they buy that one.

They have video game rental services for a reason. Use them!!!

peeweejd @ Aug 21st 2006 11:43AM

oh great, now that the wii is too underpowered to port new next gen games to it, they are going to port old gamecube games to it.

yay!

boy oh boy, luigi's mansion finally the way it was meant to be played!

and man i'll be able to clean lots of mud up on super mario sunshine!

striderhayasa @ Aug 21st 2006 11:52AM

@ kylekyle

exactly! Ninty is aiming towards people that won't play games for more than a few minutes. That's why they're releasing so many games with no depth and simple gameplay like Metroid and Zelda....oh wait.

@ derbeste

RE 4, RE remake, Metroid Prime, Metroid Prime 2, Time Splitters, Fire Emblem, F-Zero...these games would be great with the Wiimote IMO.

Personally, I don't mind the change. I've seen the potential of the Wiimote since it was first announced. I'll go with the Wii version. Of course there's going to be a learning curve but I'm ok with that. there was a learning curve using the analog stick in Turok for the first time. The Turok control scheme became a standard for single analog FPS controls, even now. By the time Goldeneye came out, 64 FPS fans were accustomed to the control scheme. The rest is history.

gman @ Aug 21st 2006 11:57AM

ok, I'm going to have to cast out a giant flaming WHAT THE F**K here people. For yet ANOTHER time. Just because the Wii remote is based on movement DOESN'T mean that you need to jump in the air and make gross movements with your entire arm, or run into the next room, or throw the remote at your friends and pets. The Wii remote will NOT allow you to control your gf or any other women. SERIOUSLY though guys, why is it that people automatically assume that those wildly exaggerated videos of people playing the system dictate the only way you can use the Wii remote effectively? Comon ppl...little wrist movements....like with your thumbs, but instead...it's your wrists!!!! Is it really that tiring?

Truf @ Aug 21st 2006 12:00PM

Are people not reading?? Those aren't ports they are rereleases. And the way miyamoto describes it, it would only take a handful of people - if that - to get those rereleases ready as all they would be doing is simply adding wii controls to the already finished GC games.

It seems nintendo is leading by example as most 3rd parties seem to be simply doing the same thing for their Wii launch titles

Derbeste @ Aug 21st 2006 12:07PM

gman:

Exactly!

Furthermore....I'm going to guess that most of you have ample strength and endurance in your wrists from too much of another....similarly executed activity.

If you can do......"that"......you can shake your Wii just as easily without getting tired.

I'm sure will be equally as rewarding too.

samfish @ Aug 21st 2006 12:08PM

While I really, really do hope Nintendo offers multiple control schemes, I just want to say...

YAY!!!!
Sometimes dreams DO come true!

Stu L Tissimus @ Aug 21st 2006 12:13PM

Awesome news. Absolutely awesome. As for these rereleases, I'm somewhat confused as to... well why Nintendo can't just distribute Wii "patches" for the games over Connect24? Put the GCN disc in the drive, it checks if there's a Wii patch, downloads it, and you should be good to go. It'd be like 360's backwards compatibility, except it's for gameplay tweaks, not compatibility.

RayRay @ Aug 21st 2006 12:17PM

For those who need exercize should just pick up that diet fitness title from Nintendo on launch day for the Wii console.

Will @ Aug 21st 2006 12:24PM

Being the huge Zelda fan that I am... I'm not looking forward to playing a series I love my flinging my wrists and whatnot. After playing Star Fox Command and Nintendo allowing that game to be ruined by making flying all stylus based, and not the D-Pad that I enjoyed so much in Star Fox.

Ah well, I'll still get a Wii, I'll just get this game on Gamecube because I don't have a widescreen tv yet.

WamBam @ Aug 21st 2006 12:26PM

You know what? I smoke waaay too much pot to be swinging my arms around for hours on end. I'd like to get the Wii but this system is just not made for lazy stoners like myself. Ah well...

limerick @ Aug 21st 2006 12:28PM

10. So basically those of you complaining about PS2 ports to PSP can basically start complaining about all of your ports on the Game Cube 1.5.

PS2->PSP = console to handheld
GC->Wii = console to console

The main reason people diss the PS2 ports for the PSP is because if you want to play a console game in the first place, you ought to play it on a console.

broseph @ Aug 21st 2006 12:30PM

Yes, the action of flicking your wrists may not be fatiguing, but it can't be ruled out as a non-issue or one of not being "in shape". Take the nearest remote control or cell phone, hold it straight out from your body, and flick your wrist for half an hour. Tell me that you're not feeling the need to rest. So my question would be how does the controller react to the moments when you need to put your hand down and rest?

Todd @ Aug 21st 2006 12:35PM

Heh, I can see someone playing the Wii version of "Luigi's Mansion" looking like they're having a seizure as they battle imaginary ghosts. Pretty amusing. Next you'll see a new Ghostbusters game complete with new Ghost Zapper Wii controller. :)

I'm excited about Zelda. I'm a little irked that Zelda can't be house on one disc for both systems. My guess is that the new Wii CD for Zelda will come packed with more hidden content than can be put onto the mini GameCube disc.

Now, as for the controls. While preventing users the options of customizing controls or choosing to use GC controllers this will alienate some people. I am willing to give the game a try. However if I am unable to get adjusted, and are forced to buy the GC version, I will be put out (both money and misery).

Of all things players like best, it's options. Give us options dammit!

socrates @ Aug 21st 2006 12:38PM

Color me more excited about Phantom Hourglass than Twilight Princess.

I know that everyone has swallowed the "this is a revolution!" whole, but what no one seems to realize is that there is zero direct correlation between controller innovation and gameplay innovation for MOST games.

There are some games that are designed for the controlling aspect to be part of the gaming experience - DDR is a good instance of this.

But what is really baffling about this Wii thing is that you think they would be pushing some really innovative games where what you're physically doing is supposed to be entertaining on its own right - but moving your wrist to the right, or twisting the controller or whatever, is not a game in its own right. And, even more baffling is that it DOESN'T ADD A THING to the gameplay - these actions could all be achieved via other, regular controller schemes.

So while people babble on about how "I know that Nintendo doesn't really have any new IPs and is just releasing sequels, but they're going to be totally different on the Wii"....no, they're not. The new MP/Zelda/Mario games aren't structred any differently, aren't breaking into new realms of gameplay...but you will be moving your wrist in a different way than you used to. Awesome.

People also haven't thought about how many ways the Wiimote can limit you - you could never ever, for example, play a Virtua fighter type game on the Wii. There simply aren't enough buttons available to your fingers in a split second. But Nintendo doesn't care...Smash Brothers uses, what, two buttons? Screw depth or complexity in games.

In case you doubt that controller stuff, while GREAT for building up buzz and interest, ALWAYS takes a backseat to actual gameplay...remember that most people pretty quickly figured out that you could work the old NES powerpad much better with your hands than with your feet, and would use that to play the track and field game. There are a few things the Wii could do that would make for interesting, fun games. But that's not what they have on the horizon, and you have to sacrifice a lot to get it.