User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 395 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Negative: 34 out of 395
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  1. Jun 9, 2011
    9
    Huge improvement over Phantom Hourglass. Improved DS Stylus control, better story - Princess Zelda is the best companion you will ever have in a Zelda game and is actually funnier, difficulty is a bit more balanced but just not there yet (Nintendo should stop catering for casual gamers on difficulty, it's like they might cry if they keep dying or can't do it and this was a huge setback forHuge improvement over Phantom Hourglass. Improved DS Stylus control, better story - Princess Zelda is the best companion you will ever have in a Zelda game and is actually funnier, difficulty is a bit more balanced but just not there yet (Nintendo should stop catering for casual gamers on difficulty, it's like they might cry if they keep dying or can't do it and this was a huge setback for Phantom Hourglass. A challenge would actually benefit them) and a more reasonable handheld length. Though the train travel is actually more tedious than the sailing in Windwaker and Phantom Hourglass, it's actually nice to travel on something new in a Zelda game. Expand
  2. Jan 12, 2014
    8
    A wonderful addition to the DS and LoZ library of games. The touch control similar to that of Phantom Hourglass is greatly designed, although I would've preferred D-Pad moving...It does take all the capabilities of the ds and uses them well. Although some puzzles and the story may be a bit dumbed down, it's definitely a fun game that's worth your cash! The multiplayer is addicting asA wonderful addition to the DS and LoZ library of games. The touch control similar to that of Phantom Hourglass is greatly designed, although I would've preferred D-Pad moving...It does take all the capabilities of the ds and uses them well. Although some puzzles and the story may be a bit dumbed down, it's definitely a fun game that's worth your cash! The multiplayer is addicting as well....and the ability to have single card download play is a great addition to this game

    Gameplay: 9/10
    Story: 8/10
    Music: 8/10
    Presentation: 8.5/10
    Length: 8/10
    Overall: 8/10
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  3. JesseR
    Jan 18, 2010
    10
    While some critics argue that Spirit Tracks is by no means one of the best Zelda games out there, I have to disagree. While it does echo its predecessor Phantom Hourglass from time to time, and, admittedly, there were times when I wished the train would go just a LITTLE bit faster, it is still, in my opinion, the best handheld Zelda out there. The new Tower of Spirits is a riot, and after While some critics argue that Spirit Tracks is by no means one of the best Zelda games out there, I have to disagree. While it does echo its predecessor Phantom Hourglass from time to time, and, admittedly, there were times when I wished the train would go just a LITTLE bit faster, it is still, in my opinion, the best handheld Zelda out there. The new Tower of Spirits is a riot, and after two cell-shaded ocean-traveling games it Expand
  4. sLm
    Jul 8, 2012
    8
    Though it may feel a bit similar to Phantom Hourglass, it's a good game, and they fixed many issues present in the previous game. For example, now you don't have to repeat the last Temple all over again, and there's no countdown, which is very very good in my opinion, it let's you enjoy the dungeons relaxed and without hurry. Also, you can control Zelda, who can possess special soldiersThough it may feel a bit similar to Phantom Hourglass, it's a good game, and they fixed many issues present in the previous game. For example, now you don't have to repeat the last Temple all over again, and there's no countdown, which is very very good in my opinion, it let's you enjoy the dungeons relaxed and without hurry. Also, you can control Zelda, who can possess special soldiers with cool abilities. Regarding dungeons, we get a couple new items very cool, like the sand lifter and the whip (I love this xd), as well as old ones like the boomerang and arrows. Bombs looks not to be needed to go ahead in the game, but you can take them too. Dungeons start easy, but in the mid-end game they become truly challenging, which may be a let down at first, but after you discover how to solve the difficult puzzles, it feels more rewarded than solving easy ones, which is very good. The hardest part of the game was the train pursuit almost at the end of the game, where you must destroy all the mad trains (it's really hard, they change their direction any time and pursuit you lol, you have to memorize their tracks to get them or you are dead). I recommend saving game after beating that xD. So, after some really frustrating moments in which I literally went mad at the game haha, I think it was worth playing it, because it's very rewarding in the end, due to it's difficulty. :) Expand
  5. May 3, 2019
    8
    Music: 5/5
    Game Play: 4/5
    Graphics: 4/5
    Story: 4/5
    Time-Value: 4/5
    Overall:4/5
  6. Oct 21, 2012
    10
    I hated Phantom Hourglass. The over world sucked, the music was bland, the puzzles were insultingly easy, and the plot was an excuse. So why does this game get a perfect ten from me? Because it did just about everything right. Admittedly the over world wasn't as good as in the 3D Zelda games, but it's still a vast improvement. The music offers some of the best tracks in the entireI hated Phantom Hourglass. The over world sucked, the music was bland, the puzzles were insultingly easy, and the plot was an excuse. So why does this game get a perfect ten from me? Because it did just about everything right. Admittedly the over world wasn't as good as in the 3D Zelda games, but it's still a vast improvement. The music offers some of the best tracks in the entire franchise, such as the Sacred Duet and the Overworld theme. The puzzles were easily the best out of any Zelda game, making it a bit more of a puzzle game than an action-adventure title. Finally, the plot was probably the best in the series, involving many great characters with a lot of life to them(Especially Zelda and Byrne). This game is different than other Zelda games, but as we established with Majora's Mask and Skyward Sword, different doesn't mean bad. Expand
  7. Oct 10, 2010
    10
    Phantom Hourglass was, definetely, one of the worst Zelda titles, and yet, it was fun. Spirit Tracks is better in pretty much every way it could be. The little problem we had with using the touchscreen were fixed, like the rolling attack. The soundtrack is, possibly, one of the best in the Zelda series. Spirit Tracks uses prety much everything the DS has to offer. The microfone, thePhantom Hourglass was, definetely, one of the worst Zelda titles, and yet, it was fun. Spirit Tracks is better in pretty much every way it could be. The little problem we had with using the touchscreen were fixed, like the rolling attack. The soundtrack is, possibly, one of the best in the Zelda series. Spirit Tracks uses prety much everything the DS has to offer. The microfone, the touchscreen. The buttons on the other hand... Spirit Tracks is definetely worthy of the "Zelda" title. It starts with easy dungeons, but by the end, you'll find yourself stuck for several times. The biggest problem in Phantom Hourglass, the central dungeon, is still here, but differently from the Temple of the Ocean King, the Tower of Spirits will never force you to go through floors you have already visited, instead, it will take you to differente challenges. It's a great Zelda to have in your pocket. The game is a tad bit short, lasting about 25/30 hours of gameplay. IF you are going through all the sidequests, it's a LOT longer, and for people who wants some real challenge, there is the Dark Ore Quest. Overall, Spirit Tracjs is one of the most inspired Zeldas out there, it might not be the best one, but it is one that is worth it. Expand
  8. Oct 11, 2017
    10
    The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is easily still one of my most favourite games to play, despite it being almost 8 years old. The entire game itself is simplistic but still makes you think enough for it to be classed as a puzzle game. The storyline isn’t entirely a prominent feature it’s more just woven through everything else to progress certain parts without it not making sense, it isThe Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks is easily still one of my most favourite games to play, despite it being almost 8 years old. The entire game itself is simplistic but still makes you think enough for it to be classed as a puzzle game. The storyline isn’t entirely a prominent feature it’s more just woven through everything else to progress certain parts without it not making sense, it is however still a good storyline for those who enjoy a good plot.

    The story begins in Link’s home village whilst he’s being told the story of why the spirit tracks actually exist, this obviously sets up the base for the whole game or else nothing would make sense. It quickly begins the tutorial of how to use controls by weaving it into the story instead of just simply stating what to use for what, it’s more immersing using the story as a way of teaching controls.
    It soon begins the real story when Link has to make his way to Hyrule Castle by train to see the Princess and gain his engineer’s certificate, again the train journey mainly being used as a way to teach the train controls rather than being anything else important.
    A lot of cutscenes later the first ‘real’ playing begins when Link has to help Princess Zelda escape so that she can investigate why some of the tracks are mysteriously disappearing, this of course eventually leads to the typical “something bad happens to the princess and she needs saving by the hero himself, Link”.

    After the story is set up for the princess needing to be saved the real and true story begins filled with travelling, puzzles and enemies of all shapes and sizes.
    One of the best features, personally, is the use of the spirit flute for puzzles and shortcuts since it’s a new feature for spirit tracks which adds to everything else.

    The graphics are interesting since it’s much more basic compared to the other games and it’s played more on a 2D basis since you use the stylus to tap and walk around whereas in a game like Ocarina of Time you use the control pad to walk and look around, however I think that it makes it much easier to navigate and fight since you have more control using the stylus, therefore the overall game experience becomes better as you spend less time grasping the controls.

    If you were a fan of Phantom Hourglass you may find yourself a big fan of Spirit Tracks too since they are very similar in style, just you drive a train rather than a boat.
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  9. Feb 3, 2013
    9
    I guess Nintendo decided to carry on the easy, casual gameplay they brought in with Phantom Hourglass, because, this is quite frankly, one of the easier titles in the series. Nevertheless, Spirit Tracks provides the same fun, innovative touch-screen gameplay as it's predecessor and offers a smooth, progressive storyline. The action is not something to get worked about. Although, some ofI guess Nintendo decided to carry on the easy, casual gameplay they brought in with Phantom Hourglass, because, this is quite frankly, one of the easier titles in the series. Nevertheless, Spirit Tracks provides the same fun, innovative touch-screen gameplay as it's predecessor and offers a smooth, progressive storyline. The action is not something to get worked about. Although, some of the boss battles can be quite challenging at times. The game also offers some challenging dungeons (though few) and is a great DS title to add to your collection. It is a must-buy for DS owners and fans of all Zelda games. Expand
  10. Mar 16, 2015
    10
    Entspannende Zugfahrten , gute Unterhaltung , spannende Kämpfe und innovative Minigames : Das ist Spirit Tracks . Minister von Glaiss , Delok und Lineback waren geniale Charaktere und erst die Soundtracks ! Der zweite und vierte Boss hatte enorm geile Battletracks , aber der Finalkampf hat den besten überhaupt ! Unschlagbar , dieses Game ! ^-^
  11. Apr 25, 2017
    8
    I had many problems with phantom hourglass, but most of them have been fixed in this DS sequel: the touch screen controls are now more responsive (although a real pain during the final boss) and the main dungeon (the spirit tower) that you will be returning to during the whole game is much better in Spirit tracks than in Phantom hourglass. The fact that Zelda can control the phantoms addsI had many problems with phantom hourglass, but most of them have been fixed in this DS sequel: the touch screen controls are now more responsive (although a real pain during the final boss) and the main dungeon (the spirit tower) that you will be returning to during the whole game is much better in Spirit tracks than in Phantom hourglass. The fact that Zelda can control the phantoms adds fun gameplay, and Zelda's important role throughout the game makes the story pretty interesting. Driving the spirit train is pleasant, mainly thanks to an amazing overworked theme. Although the game may be linear at times, I don't actually care: excluding Breath of the Wild and the original Zelda for NES every Zelda game is pretty straightforward. The spirit tower and sand temple are some of the best dungeons on a handheld Zelda game: the rest of the dungeons are nothing special though. The boss fights are okay, and the addition of new items such as the sand wand make the game very fun. The best part of this game is undoubtedly the customisable pieces for the spirit train. The game has a very slow start however and getting from one place to the other is sometimes very time-comusing. the touch screen controls although improved are still unresponsive and make link roll instead of attack several times. This game is definitely flawed but its still a good game. If you own a DS and want to play Zelda, get this one it outclasses Phantom Hourglass. Expand
  12. May 20, 2012
    10
    I was truly blown away with Spirit Tracks, it's a phenomenal game and I honestly can't bring myself to give it anything less then a 10/10, It's truly a masterpiece. The story and characters a fantastic, and provide some truly emotional and laugh out loud moments, the gameplay is fantastic featuring solid combat backed by great controls (although I probably would have preferred a moreI was truly blown away with Spirit Tracks, it's a phenomenal game and I honestly can't bring myself to give it anything less then a 10/10, It's truly a masterpiece. The story and characters a fantastic, and provide some truly emotional and laugh out loud moments, the gameplay is fantastic featuring solid combat backed by great controls (although I probably would have preferred a more traditional control scheme, this one works very well) and some really complex puzzles that will have you using every ounce of brain power you've got. The graphics look fantastically adorable, but don't let it's cuteness fool you this is every bit a hardcore gamers game(that also can be enjoyed by more casual gamers), and the soundtrack is outstanding and one of the best I've heard in a video game. And the bosses are epic most of them take up both screens and require skill along with quick thinking and reflexes, and the new items are great and the inventory system is fantastic. the game also packs a lot of content in the form of side quests and treasure hunting, the treasure hunting makes excellent use of the ability to write notes and mark locations on the map and kinda gives it a Indiana Jones feel, well that and the whip XD. I'm sure you've heard the complaints about the train by now and I'm just gong to give my opinion, I liked it, I thought it was a pretty sweet addition especially when you use it for combat (which controls wonderfully by the way). I highly recommend this game it's truly a amazingly fun experience and that's why I give it a 10 out of 10. Expand
  13. Nov 5, 2011
    10
    Spirit Tracks does everything Phantom Hourglass did and more. Although the same basic formula of a central dungeon with stealth that must be revisited, many things have changed. The most iconic feature of Spirit Tracks is the Train, you use this to travel the realms in order to reach destinations such as temples and towns. This is quite similar to the boat, you have a cannon, you canSpirit Tracks does everything Phantom Hourglass did and more. Although the same basic formula of a central dungeon with stealth that must be revisited, many things have changed. The most iconic feature of Spirit Tracks is the Train, you use this to travel the realms in order to reach destinations such as temples and towns. This is quite similar to the boat, you have a cannon, you can customise each part of the train etc. However, there are many improvements from the boat, although the tracks are pre-made, there are many routes you can take, this makes drawing your path less awkward and enables your route to be changed easier once you have already started moving; it also allows for more challenging gameplay as you must dodge the Phantom Trains on the track (which feels slightly similar to Pacman). As well as this, your movement is more advanced, you have the ability to control the speed of the train allowing more strategic movement than Phantom Hourglass's boats allows. Personally, I preferred the train a lot more than the boat and the music complementing how fast your train is going really made the train rides fun and engaging. The train journeys can get repetitive, but the more you progress through the game, the more warp points you'll unlock and the more tracks you'll recover, meaning getting from one place to another gets quicker and quicker with every quest you complete.

    The next new feature is the Spirit Flute, fans of musical instruments that almost always appear in Zelda titles will be a fan of this. It works the same as the Ocarina, only it combines touch screen and blowing to play it. There are many songs, each with different effects, which will come as familiar to anyone who has played Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask or Wind Waker. The touch and blow combo can make some of the songs a little challenging, especially the sequences where you have to blow with precise timing, which can be very frustrating. Apart from that, the flute is as worthy an instrument as the Ocarina.

    The central dungeon this time is very similar to the Temple of the Ocean King; there are phantoms patrolling the area which you must sneak by, whilst solving puzzles. However, there are many changes; the time limit is removed, this makes it easier in some sense, but allows the puzzles to become more complex (which nearer the end become very challenging). You no longer have to repeat floors which you have already done multiple times, in Phantom Hourglass the temple became annoying as you could only start on the 1st floor or the 4th, which made the dungeon quite repetitive, Spirit Tracks fixes this. The main unique feature of the Spirit Tower is that Zelda is able to possess a Phantom after they have been struck by Link's tear-infused sword. This allows many unique abilities, such as a Phantom which feels very similar to playing as a Goron in Majora's Mask, and a Phantom which can teleport to seekers. This feature also allows puzzles to become more complex, more unique and makes the tower feel a lot different to the Temple of the Ocean king. In dungeons, there are many new tools and mechanics to go alongside these. Some very unique tools that have never been in Zelda games before, as well as some of the most epic and most fun bosses in the series. There are also tons of extras, loads of mini-games, such as the rabbit rescue which keeps the train journeys more enjoyable as you'll be searching for rabbits whilst you travel to your next destination. Many side-quests which use the trains mechanics, such as transporting resources from one location to another, making sure you aren't attacked or your train doesn't turn too fast and lose some of the cargo. As well as many classic mini-games such as target shooting and agility-based races which take place on foot.

    The soundtrack is also one of the best in the series, from the wonderful overworld theme which changes slightly based on the speed of the train, to the epicness of the final boss theme. It really does sound beautiful.

    In conclusion, there are many features which feel similar to Phantom Hourglass, and a few issues such as some frustrating flute playing and train journeys which might become boring (although they didn't for me). But there is a lot of fun to be had with this game and many aspects of the game have improved from Phantom Hourglass, as well as this there are tons of new unique features such as Zelda's ability to possess Phantoms. Spirit Tracks has changed enough and added new unique features to feel fresh and exciting, it isn't perfect, but it's certainly worthy of a place in the Zelda series.

    9.5/10 (rounded up to 10 for Metacritic)
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  14. Sep 9, 2014
    10
    Un juego que me llego al alma , me encantas los trenes y ademas este juego es el que link esta mas compañado de zelda ,la historia es muy buena el final es muy lindo y tiene 3 alternativos , agregado a todo esto el juego tiene muchas misiones secundarias , estaciones por descubrir , la mazmorra del "al ataque " donde te vuelves a enfrentar con todos los jefes y una sombra de toon link,Un juego que me llego al alma , me encantas los trenes y ademas este juego es el que link esta mas compañado de zelda ,la historia es muy buena el final es muy lindo y tiene 3 alternativos , agregado a todo esto el juego tiene muchas misiones secundarias , estaciones por descubrir , la mazmorra del "al ataque " donde te vuelves a enfrentar con todos los jefes y una sombra de toon link, podria ser dark link o el link del phantom hourglass ya que en el combate esta su melodia , es muy divertido el juego , y con puzles bastantes dificiles tanto en tren como en link a pie . Exelente juego el mejor de ds Expand
  15. Apr 10, 2017
    9
    In 2007 Nintendo released Phantom Hourglass. Most of the people liked it, and a bunch of people hated it. But I think everyone will agree that it wasn’t precisely a stellar Zelda game. So when Nintendo announced Spirit Tracks, a direct sequel with the same gameplay style, the hype was relatively small. Another Phantom Hourglass, but with a train instead of a ship? I totally understandIn 2007 Nintendo released Phantom Hourglass. Most of the people liked it, and a bunch of people hated it. But I think everyone will agree that it wasn’t precisely a stellar Zelda game. So when Nintendo announced Spirit Tracks, a direct sequel with the same gameplay style, the hype was relatively small. Another Phantom Hourglass, but with a train instead of a ship? I totally understand people who didn’t give a **** about this game. But when the game came out, it turned out that it was actually a fantastic Zelda title that surpassed Phantom Hourglass in every aspect by far. Today, it still stands as one of the most unfairly underappreciated Zelda games.

    Spirit Tracks has everything you would expect from a great Zelda game. The overworld is way better than Phantom Hourglass’. It is big, charming ,varied and full of interesting locations to discover. It also feels more lively and believable than PH’s. The villages are all lovely. The story is much better and engaging, with cool characters like Byrne and some pretty good villains, as well as some epic and memorable moments here and there. The dungeons are far superior to those in PH, now offering a bit more of a challenge, as well as a better aesthetic design. The bosses are great too.

    As in any good Zelda game, there is a great deal of side activities to do, like helping other people with their requests, catching the bunnies, a really cool minigame where you have to fight rounds of enemies and finally bosses, and even a secret dungeon. A whole secret dungeon!!! How awesome is that? Speaking of dungeons, this game also has a master dungeon similar to the Temple of the Ocean King in PH, and it is the Tower of Spirits. Needless to say, it is much better designed and way more entertaining than its predecessor. Being able to control a Phantom in the Tower of Spirits is a really nice gameplay mechanic, and I think it was well carried out overall.

    People like to speak **** of this game’s train travelling mechanic. Ok, the train is a bit slow. But I don’t know, I never had an issue with this. Travelling through the world with the train is a nice experience to me, as it managed to immerse me into the game’s world even more. And it’s not like you spend all the time travelling either.

    The soundtrack completely humiliates PH’s pathetic excuse for a soundtrack, and it is clearly among the best Zelda soundtracks of all time. Listen to the Overworld Theme, and you’ll get a grasp of the quality level of this OST. Definitely one of the best aspects of the game. On the matter of music, Spirit Tracks introduces the Flute, which is kind of nice, but can get a little frustrating in some parts. Like, when I played it for the first time, I got stuck for hours on the final boss because I couldn’t perform the flute song correctly. Maybe I was being a stupid kid, because I did it on the first try on my second playthrough, so I don’t know. The flute songs might bother some people.

    Can you think of any other aspect that defines a great Zelda game? Well, if you can, it’s probably present in Spirit Tracks too. 6 years after playing it for the first time, it’s still my favorite game in the DS’ library, as well as my favorite handheld Zelda title.

    Score: 9.3
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  16. Nov 4, 2014
    10
    This game gets too much hate. It is a huge improvement over Phantom Hourglass, with better dungeons, music, gameplay, story and boss battles. Traveling is also much better than before, some people might think it's tedious, but at least it adds some variety unalike in Phantom Hourglass where absolutely nothing happens.
  17. Aug 17, 2015
    8
    To get my main complaints out of the way, traversing the overworld is boring and uneventful. You eventually activate Stargate-looking warps but they each take you to one specific spot! It's bad enough that you can't warp from anywhere like in Wind Waker, but once you enter a warp you can't even choose which warp to go to from there! And completionists will have a problem because you haveTo get my main complaints out of the way, traversing the overworld is boring and uneventful. You eventually activate Stargate-looking warps but they each take you to one specific spot! It's bad enough that you can't warp from anywhere like in Wind Waker, but once you enter a warp you can't even choose which warp to go to from there! And completionists will have a problem because you have to collect treasures to buy all the train parts, but you have to rely and randomly getting the right treasures from the environment. You have to grind by leaving and reentering areas over and over again hoping you'll get the right stuff.

    But enough complaining. You're a Zelda fan: if you can get over the train segments then you'll like this game. And interestingly, I think Zelda plays a larger part in this game than any other Zelda title, because the titular princess is now your very own sidekick! This lets you get a better impression of who she is as a character, which I liked. And Spirit Tracks also has the coolest instrument of any Zelda game in my opinion, because blowing into the microphone gives the impression that you are actually playing it!

    Reasons to skip this game:
    - If you don't like Toon Link or Zelda in general
    - If you're a compulsive completionist and can't stand to have missing items
    - The overworld is slow and boring to traverse
    - There's not a lot that's different about this installment in the series

    Key differences between this and Phantom Hourglass:
    - Because of the titular tracks, Spirit Tracks gives you even less control in the overworld navigation
    - Spirit Tracks is more detached from the Wind Waker storyline
    - Spirit Tracks gives you a cool instrument to play like in other Zelda games
    - The recurring dungeon in Spirit Tracks has no time limit, and doesn't require you to redo sections
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  18. Mar 29, 2016
    8
    This game in a "Deku" nutshell is good. There isn't much that stands out as amazing and there isn't much that is bad either. The towns in this game are fun but they aren't very big with only the dungeons being of any large size for this game. However there are lots of towns/villages with many stations to find on other tracks. The side quests in this game are fun and numerous and theyThis game in a "Deku" nutshell is good. There isn't much that stands out as amazing and there isn't much that is bad either. The towns in this game are fun but they aren't very big with only the dungeons being of any large size for this game. However there are lots of towns/villages with many stations to find on other tracks. The side quests in this game are fun and numerous and they unlock more of the spirit tracks that you have to travel along to reach destinations which allows for faster travel across the lands and adds some tracks that reveal new stations that have things like mini games or treasure on them. I also love the train customization as there is a few choices and all of them are different but you have to collect treasure to build them which is a problem as some are very difficult to find. If it had been done like Phantom Hourglass I would have liked it more but I understand that some people didn't like the way it was done in that game. The bosses are all cool and unique and some can be challenging like the Sand Temple's boss. The problem is that none of these are super unique and everything is done to a good standard. This doesn't mean that it is a bad game but compared to other Zelda titles like Ocarina of Time and A Link to the past it doesn't stand out.

    Thanks for reading my review.
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  19. Mar 31, 2017
    10
    muy contento con este juego, es rico en mecánicas como todo zelda y en mecánica. las mazmorras son muy buenas y también la cooperación que realiza la princesa zelda. Dzaga
  20. IchigoK
    Dec 10, 2009
    8
    +2 The new central dungeon removes the biggest complaint of phantom hourglass. +2 The addition of Zelda really expands the gameplay & story. +2 Things you can do with the train (Transporting Passengers & Materials, Blowing up stuff, Whistle, Catching Bunnies, etc...) +2 Tons of secrets, mini-games, and some incredible "Zelda" moments +2 Puzzles are very challenging especially in the +2 The new central dungeon removes the biggest complaint of phantom hourglass. +2 The addition of Zelda really expands the gameplay & story. +2 Things you can do with the train (Transporting Passengers & Materials, Blowing up stuff, Whistle, Catching Bunnies, etc...) +2 Tons of secrets, mini-games, and some incredible "Zelda" moments +2 Puzzles are very challenging especially in the central dungeon. +1 Soundtrack is great -1 Sometimes touch controls doesn't work quite well -1 A lot of obligatory microphone use -1 You get bored from to much train travelling Expand
  21. NiteshM
    Dec 7, 2009
    10
    The most unique Zelda game to date. I have to admit that I was quite skeptical going in but deciding to pick this game up has been a very rewarding decision. Although slightly tedious at times, Spirit Tracks is miles ahead of its predecessor, and contains some of the hands-down most unique and creative puzzles that I have ever seen in a Zelda game, or any action-adventure game for that The most unique Zelda game to date. I have to admit that I was quite skeptical going in but deciding to pick this game up has been a very rewarding decision. Although slightly tedious at times, Spirit Tracks is miles ahead of its predecessor, and contains some of the hands-down most unique and creative puzzles that I have ever seen in a Zelda game, or any action-adventure game for that matter. With a huge amount of content, a game like this is a must buy for any Nintendo fan or a fan of puzzlers or action adventure games. Expand
  22. NilsB
    Dec 9, 2009
    10
    The dungeons are much better then in Phantom Hourglass. It is one of the best games of this year!!
  23. RileyM
    Jan 26, 2010
    9
    Phantom Hourglass created a wonderful engine, but it used it could have used it to create such a better game. This, in my opinion, is that game. This is the way the engine should have been used to begin with. The dungeons are some of the best I've seen in Zelda since Wind Waker, and the puzzles bring in fresh new ideas. The graphics are beautiful for a DS game, much like in Phantom Phantom Hourglass created a wonderful engine, but it used it could have used it to create such a better game. This, in my opinion, is that game. This is the way the engine should have been used to begin with. The dungeons are some of the best I've seen in Zelda since Wind Waker, and the puzzles bring in fresh new ideas. The graphics are beautiful for a DS game, much like in Phantom Hourglass. My only complaints have to do with the train. The train works all right, but it seems that you spend a lot more time on it in this game. The train should have moved a bit faster than it did, and this only makes the train segments seem even longer and more boring. The excessive train usage cuts out of the exploration, and most of what Link does on foot will be in the dungeons. The storyline is also pretty generic and simple, but it gets the job done. I am not really a fan of using the microphone, but this game did a fairly good job handling it. The game is a vast improvement over Phantom Hourglass. From the awesome new items to the slightly improved difficulty, this is definitely what the DS Zeldas have needed. Expand
  24. MineneT
    Jan 4, 2010
    9
    A crazily remarkable game,THIS should be the sequel to the number one Zelda game The Wind Waker.phantom Hourglass was an obviously rushed game--Nintendo just wanted to get it out there without really putting their heart into it.the music was horrible--and the fact that it was all the same throughout the entire game made it worse.The gameplay was atrocious--a drastic departure from the A crazily remarkable game,THIS should be the sequel to the number one Zelda game The Wind Waker.phantom Hourglass was an obviously rushed game--Nintendo just wanted to get it out there without really putting their heart into it.the music was horrible--and the fact that it was all the same throughout the entire game made it worse.The gameplay was atrocious--a drastic departure from the dream-like TWW controls.the graphics indicated laziness.the storyline was bland and boring,the temples made you want to shoot your eyes out.ST is a jewel of a game.They enhanced graphics in subtle ways,the music is tear-inducingly beautiful,and focuses on more of the "tribal' aspects of TWW instead of the orchestra,like PH.link actually HAS a personality,unlike his neutral behavior in PH.There's suggested romantic interaction,which has been craved by fans since Ribbon kissed Kirby in his 64 debut.There's actualy DIFFERENT music for each dungeon.i think I've repeated myself.anyway,Spirit Tracks is DEFINITELY worth your money.The only reason it isn't a 10 is because The Wind Waker has already stolen that spot. Expand
  25. MorganW
    Dec 10, 2009
    9
    If you love Zelda games, then this game is a must buy. It feels as though Nintendo took the criticism of Phantom Hourglass and crafted a game that fixed all the problems. Spirit Tracks is a charming Zelda game and will be enjoyed by Zelda aficionados of all ages.
  26. SteffenH
    Dec 12, 2009
    10
    100% Improved over Phantom Hourglass. Dungeon? Fixed. Better Story, Cutscenes, Music. Despite what some have said, the Flute is so much fun. The additional 'weapons' such as the whirlwinds are used very well. But mostly, it is so much fun to have Zelda jump into one of the Phantoms and pal around the dungeons. I can't say how much MORE fun this one is over Phantom 100% Improved over Phantom Hourglass. Dungeon? Fixed. Better Story, Cutscenes, Music. Despite what some have said, the Flute is so much fun. The additional 'weapons' such as the whirlwinds are used very well. But mostly, it is so much fun to have Zelda jump into one of the Phantoms and pal around the dungeons. I can't say how much MORE fun this one is over Phantom Hourglass. Only complaint is the Train can be a little boring..but not as bad as the Sea Travel was in PH. Best game on DS by far. Amazing. Expand
  27. WillY.
    Dec 13, 2009
    8
    Great game and I'm loving the storyline. Multiplayer is a bit sad though. All you do is run around dodging phantoms and collecting force gems. Personally i preferred the old multiplayer where you had to actually think about what to do. Good game nonetheless, good job Nintendo!
  28. NorbertN
    Dec 24, 2009
    9
    It improves on Phantom Hourglass in every way. And it does bring some inovation to the series as well. Still there's a bit of Deja Vu though - ow many times have we had to collect the Boomerang and Bow? At least in Twilight Princess they managed to put a neat twist on many of the traditional weapons. Overall a very good game, but for me it lacked the 'OMG' factor of some of It improves on Phantom Hourglass in every way. And it does bring some inovation to the series as well. Still there's a bit of Deja Vu though - ow many times have we had to collect the Boomerang and Bow? At least in Twilight Princess they managed to put a neat twist on many of the traditional weapons. Overall a very good game, but for me it lacked the 'OMG' factor of some of the other instalments. Expand
  29. LuísC
    Dec 7, 2009
    10
    One of the best in the entire series. Definitely worth buying.
  30. RubZG
    Dec 8, 2009
    10
    An amazing an extremely fun game. The train is so fun an the graphics incredible for a DS game. A DS must buy.

Awards & Rankings

4
4
#4 Most Discussed DS Game of 2009
4
#4 Most Shared DS Game of 2009
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 75 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 69 out of 75
  2. Negative: 0 out of 75
  1. Edge Magazine
    80
    Spirit Tracks' aging tricks continue to carry you cack into the narcotic realms of pure ritual, until you're deep in the caverns yet again, holding the magic yellow boomerang once more, and wondering what quirky brilliance it will bring with it this time. [Christmas 2009, p.92]
  2. Not a huge leap forward for the series but a wonderful game nonetheless. Enjoy. [Christmas 2009, p.91]
  3. A superb quest that doesn't rewrite the rules but delivers another engrossing Zelda adventure. If you own a DS, buy it.