The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker

 GameCube
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 1644 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,460 out of 1644
  2. Mixed: 110 out of 1644
  3. Negative: 74 out of 1644
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  1. JonS
    Jun 24, 2009
    10
    Okay, so maybe it doesn't deserve a perfect score. Sure there's like two bits where i got stuck or kind of bored but the sheer wall of content that is enjoyable and intriguing to the very end is just exceptional, if i could 9.8.
  2. Mac
    Mar 1, 2003
    10
    To everybody complaining about the graphics, would you rather Nintendo do the same boring thing that almost every other comany does of just making their games more life-like? Or would you rather they create them like art, which is what a truly good game is. Zelda has always been cartoony, and that's not just due to graphics restrictions. I'd say that OoT was the exception, not the rule.
  3. Lucrious
    Nov 18, 2011
    10
    Truly a gaming masterpiece, from art direction to simple yet very engrossing game play and design, this is one of Nintendo's masterpieces, and arguably the best Zelda game ever created.
  4. NikoB.
    Mar 26, 2003
    10
    This is truly a great game. The cell-shading animation takes nothing away from the game, and only adds to its creativity. Gameplay is easy to understand, and this Zelda has the best fighting in any of the games. Definitely one of the two best Zeldas.
  5. SeanM.
    Mar 7, 2003
    10
    I cant believe you people who rated this game badly because it didnt have real life graphics! Have you ever play The Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past? That Is the best game ever made for any system anywhere, anytime. This game will be awesome! It's not about whether the graphics are good or not its about how fun the game is! I think this game will kick some major ass. I thought I cant believe you people who rated this game badly because it didnt have real life graphics! Have you ever play The Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past? That Is the best game ever made for any system anywhere, anytime. This game will be awesome! It's not about whether the graphics are good or not its about how fun the game is! I think this game will kick some major ass. I thought Ocarina Of Time was good but then I realized how good A Link To The Past was for SNES. I realized that games with cartoon graphics are way the hell better because they concentrate on the story more. You want to get sucked in to the game. Thats what Zelda is all about. I know that SNES is old but still A Link To The Past is the best game ever made and I'm positive this game will kick as much ass as the SNES version did. NUFF SAID!… Expand
  6. 2MucH1991
    Nov 17, 2011
    10
    How did i know this game would have a good rating, i guess you people have great taste. What a great game this is, not quite the perfect 10/10 Ocarina of Time, but that's just fine, this game is still a beauty and deserves a solid 9.8
  7. IKnoGoodGames
    Nov 20, 2011
    10
    This game is pure genius. Its fun for everyone and it just never gets old. nothing more to say really besides buy it if you get the chance as you wont regret it. :)
  8. RainGuardian16
    Feb 28, 2012
    10
    A amazing piece of work! I absolutely love this game. It is positively entertaining. On the downside it takes FOREVER to get to one island to the other. Overall a amazing game.
  9. SnivySomnia
    Oct 7, 2012
    10
    I think it's the best in the series; Best soundtrack, unique story(until TP), realistic characters, beautifully unique graphics, free camera range, greatest overworld, and a crap ton of extra content. I'm actually a bit disappointed in Nintendo for thinking they had to apologize by making Twilight Princess.
  10. SolidSnake696
    Dec 30, 2012
    10
    This is my favorite Zelda. Zelda is freakin' hott in this one, even if she looks like she's 12. Overall i'd say this game is super **** plus Zelda has nice ****
  11. VideoGameCritic
    Aug 3, 2013
    10
    This game is one of the best gamecube games of all time. Better then Super Mario Sunshine, Animal Crossing, and Smash Bro. Melee. Link is a great ip and will always have new games just like Mario, but this game was out of left field. The game is all about going island to island in your boat called King of Red Lion. This was my favorite part of the game. Its just really awesome to be linkThis game is one of the best gamecube games of all time. Better then Super Mario Sunshine, Animal Crossing, and Smash Bro. Melee. Link is a great ip and will always have new games just like Mario, but this game was out of left field. The game is all about going island to island in your boat called King of Red Lion. This was my favorite part of the game. Its just really awesome to be link and know that no matter what direction you go in you will find something to do. There are a lot of items in game and each one has there own unique ability. Normal items that you see in every Link game like bombs and a bow an arrows are in this game but new items are out in the world that are great to look for. The music is great and matches the all around feel of the game, the graphics make the game more unique because its a more cartoon like. The Story is amazing because its about saving a princess and who doesn't like that story. In the end this is a must have and anyone who says other wise is lying to them self.… Expand
  12. Focaccia
    Feb 22, 2017
    9
    This game is almost perfect apart from the sometimes tedious sailing and the Triforce hunt. First of all I LOVE the cell-shaded graphics of this game, they have aged much better than Twilight Princess' more realistic graphics. The combat although not as realistic as Skyward Sword's combat is still very fun and requires good timing. This game isn't very hard so it's a good idea to startThis game is almost perfect apart from the sometimes tedious sailing and the Triforce hunt. First of all I LOVE the cell-shaded graphics of this game, they have aged much better than Twilight Princess' more realistic graphics. The combat although not as realistic as Skyward Sword's combat is still very fun and requires good timing. This game isn't very hard so it's a good idea to start playing the Zelda franchise with this game. Except for the forbidden woods, every dungeon in this game was amazing, with the wind temple and the tower of the gods being my personal favourite. This game is overflowing with references to Ocarina of Time which were very fun to seek out. Overall, this is truly a great game.… Expand
  13. doomrider7
    Jun 18, 2013
    10
    I remember that I was one of the guys who thought the series was ruined by the art changes and decried as kiddy. Then I played it and it occurred to me that I was being petty and childish. The graphics and art style are fantastic, the gameplay and controls are not just some of the best in the Zelda series, but in gaming in general, and the story and dungeon design are some of the series finest.
  14. Bendypencilz
    Dec 7, 2013
    10
    Wind Waker. In my opinion it's the best Zelda game out there. Sure the sailing and tri-force shards were tedious, I admit but it really gives you a chance to feel free and explore. The story is amazing, the soundtrack is easily the best in all of Zelda, and Link himself is great. Most hate this game because of the graphics style, but have you actually sat down and played this game? If youWind Waker. In my opinion it's the best Zelda game out there. Sure the sailing and tri-force shards were tedious, I admit but it really gives you a chance to feel free and explore. The story is amazing, the soundtrack is easily the best in all of Zelda, and Link himself is great. Most hate this game because of the graphics style, but have you actually sat down and played this game? If you liked Link in Ocarina of Time (who by the way is emotionless) you'll love the our new loving hero, Toon Link. A few minor flaws are the difficulty (which is very insulting to the Zelda franchise considering it's very simple,) the fact that there are only 7 dungeons (if you include the Forsaken Fortress and Ganon's Castle that is,) and of course the infamous Tri-Force quest which could've been 9 more dungeons. I wouldn't give it a ten but my score rounded is ten, I'd give it a 9.7/10.… Expand
  15. WCheffirs
    Dec 8, 2013
    10
    Ever wonder why Nintendo can compete with far superior consoles? Creativity. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker received much criticism for its cell shading graphics but as time passed they have allowed the game to age gracefully while giving the game a character unique in the franchise.

    Graphics are not what Zelda games are about though, it is the gameplay which makes them so    Ever wonder why Nintendo can compete with far superior consoles? Creativity. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker received much criticism for its cell shading graphics but as time passed they have allowed the game to age gracefully while giving the game a character unique in the franchise.

    Graphics are not what Zelda games are about though, it is the gameplay which makes them so brilliant and Wind Waker does not falter in delivering great gameplay. The sense of journey sailing when around Links world and the rich characters you meet along the way make this game in my eyes deserving of equal acclaim received by previous instalments. The only criticism one could have would be the unchanged temples challenges indifferent from the previous games. However, tinker with what made the Zelda games so great? I think not.

    This game took the Zelda franchise in a fresh new direction without deviating from what made the old games great. It makes you want buy a yacht and set sail....Caribbean or Polynesia?    … Expand
  16. Wolfie1987
    Mar 24, 2014
    10
    One of the greatest games of all time, a flawless gem, such polish. The "controversial" cel-shaded graphics are breathtaking even by today's standards. This game is made out of magic and delicious tears of joy.
  17. joaopontesvaz
    May 27, 2014
    10
    Graphics: 10 Sound: 9.5 Gameplay: 10 Fun/Story: 10

    First: i´m not a cel shading fan. Of course i´m not saying that it´s bad, and it isn´t. Sometimes it´s beautiful. Second: i love zelda, and in that time i really wanted a realistic zelda. After all this game is big because it proved by itself that it´s a masterpiece. Nintendo proved with this game that it´s a company apart from the rest    Graphics: 10 Sound: 9.5 Gameplay: 10 Fun/Story: 10

    First: i´m not a cel shading fan. Of course i´m not saying that it´s bad, and it isn´t. Sometimes it´s beautiful. Second: i love zelda, and in that time i really wanted a realistic zelda. After all this game is big because it proved by itself that it´s a masterpiece. Nintendo proved with this game that it´s a company apart from the rest and i explain why: 10 years later i played this game on WiiU and the feeling was... Breathtaking.    … Expand
  18. Sausage22
    Nov 7, 2017
    9
    Only thing that is bad about this game is its post-duengons part, without internet its pain in the ass to find all these trioforce parts, and in addition you must pay a lots of rupees. The rest of the game is fantastic, loved it.
  19. JesseR
    Jan 18, 2010
    9
    When the Wind Waker first was introduced I honestly wasn
  20. MichaelK.
    Mar 25, 2003
    10
    It's an absolute masterpiece, in graphics, sound, control, and gameplay. Elevates the gameplay of Orcarnia and Majora's Mask to unheralded new levels. Intense and emotional, with dark undertones that prove it's no kid's game. Like playing a Hayao Miyazaki film... already can see it being the best game of the year. Personally one of the best games I've ever had the It's an absolute masterpiece, in graphics, sound, control, and gameplay. Elevates the gameplay of Orcarnia and Majora's Mask to unheralded new levels. Intense and emotional, with dark undertones that prove it's no kid's game. Like playing a Hayao Miyazaki film... already can see it being the best game of the year. Personally one of the best games I've ever had the joy of experiencing.… Expand
  21. BLove
    May 6, 2003
    10
    The only complaint that I have is the game is a little too short. However, I simply can't give it less than a 10 as much as I enjoyed it. Can't wait for the next zelda on the gamecube.
  22. CozoniW.
    Jan 3, 2004
    9
    My first Zelda experience. But allthough it has suberbly origonal graphics, immaculate combat and some genius puzzles- it wasnt perfect. The exploring over the oceans was flawed to say the least, became a little repetitive just when you thought the action was hotting up and also wasnt that difficult - expecially when you are flipping between Metroid Prime and Pro evolution soccer 3 which My first Zelda experience. But allthough it has suberbly origonal graphics, immaculate combat and some genius puzzles- it wasnt perfect. The exploring over the oceans was flawed to say the least, became a little repetitive just when you thought the action was hotting up and also wasnt that difficult - expecially when you are flipping between Metroid Prime and Pro evolution soccer 3 which really are hard! But you have to give it at least a 9 because it is part of a select few games who are on a different planet to 90% of other games.… Expand
  23. JarkkoJ.
    Mar 25, 2004
    10
    I think this game is one of the best games ever made. Graphics are fantastic and gameplay is excellent. There is only one bad thing... it was too easy.
  24. JoseM.
    Feb 21, 2005
    10
    This i sthe second best zelda game to ocarina of time I hate those who say the graphics are whack i say "who cares it ain'tbout graphics it the gameply" and this game blew me away.
  25. MatthewV.
    Mar 2, 2005
    10
    The best game of 2003! The story line is excellent and exiting. The cell shaded graphics are unique but top notch and the gameplay is great. The controls are basically the same as OoT's, and the puzzles are the same wonderful zelda goodness. Best zelda game next to Ocarina of Time of course. A must have for any GCN owner!
  26. LisaI.
    Sep 29, 2005
    10
    Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was great game.there was nothing wrong about it.but i still thinkMajoras Mask and Ocarina of time were better games including the better graphics Lisa xxx
  27. BenjaminB.
    Mar 20, 2007
    9
    Almost the whole game is perfect. It has amazing graphics which you cannot do better when you use cel-shading. the sound always perfectly fits in. The only problem is that it is for Zelda fans, who played most games of this series, a bit too easy - especially the last boss fight. Another problem is that almost right before the end the search for the parts of the triforce is a bit annoying Almost the whole game is perfect. It has amazing graphics which you cannot do better when you use cel-shading. the sound always perfectly fits in. The only problem is that it is for Zelda fans, who played most games of this series, a bit too easy - especially the last boss fight. Another problem is that almost right before the end the search for the parts of the triforce is a bit annoying but finally I have to say when do not have this game you miss a masterpiece in gaming history.… Expand
  28. WilhelmB.
    Aug 3, 2007
    10
    The music, the bosses, the enviroment, the animations, have left a permanent imprint on me of what an amazing game should be.
  29. supert0n
    Feb 5, 2009
    10
    This is the best game in the world!The gameplay works perfectly,and the graphics has its own original style,making the game brilliant,and the storyline is perfect,you must play it!
  30. GreekBoyAndrew
    Dec 15, 2003
    9
    OK, we all know that the game play is great. There has been a big debate on wether the graphics are amazing or just crap. I think that the graphics are ok however they don't use the potenital of the gamecube. What people don't realise is that its not just the graphics, its the fact that link is small, skinny and gay looking. Can the hero of time really look as stupid????? on theOK, we all know that the game play is great. There has been a big debate on wether the graphics are amazing or just crap. I think that the graphics are ok however they don't use the potenital of the gamecube. What people don't realise is that its not just the graphics, its the fact that link is small, skinny and gay looking. Can the hero of time really look as stupid????? on the other hand if the graphics were the same but he was big, musclular and a hard ass then i dont think anyone would complain! in conclusion i feel that you should go out and buy this game because the storyline, gameplay and whole atmosphere of the game is amazing. you can't rate this game after 30 mins of playing it!… Expand
  31. Sariachan
    Dec 7, 2003
    10
    One of the best Zelda game I ever played, I loved Link's new style of fighting, the cell-shaded graphics, the soundtrack, and the overall greatness of this game.
  32. TylerL.
    Feb 22, 2003
    10
    I'm so sick and tired of people who judges the book by its cover. Like Tom said its judged on how it is played not by how childish it looks. If you even played the game you will love it just as much as the previous Zelda games.
  33. Ness
    Mar 20, 2003
    10
    "Actually, when I first saw the toon shaded Zelda I was very surprised and excited by it. However, I was startled by the response we got from the press when we showed it off the first time. They all said, "Oh, so is Nintendo now taking Zelda and trying to aim it only at kids?" Really, the whole concept we had behind it was that we thought it was a very creative and new way to show off "Actually, when I first saw the toon shaded Zelda I was very surprised and excited by it. However, I was startled by the response we got from the press when we showed it off the first time. They all said, "Oh, so is Nintendo now taking Zelda and trying to aim it only at kids?" Really, the whole concept we had behind it was that we thought it was a very creative and new way to show off Link. All the sudden it had been interpreted as Nintendo's new strategy, and that was a shock for us. When it comes to Nintendo strategy, it's not that we want to make games for kids. It's that we want to make them creative while appealing to a wider audience. Obviously we see games as entertainment, and we want to find the best way to make the gameplay experience entertaining for everyone." -Shigeru Miyamoto… Expand
  34. Mr.Wha
    Mar 22, 2003
    10
    Da Best! NUFF SAID.
  35. RyanM.
    Mar 29, 2003
    10
    This game has so much style that I have to agree with the comments from the majority of the magazines. There will be no finer gaming experience this year. Miyamoto strikes again!
  36. BrianS.
    Mar 7, 2003
    10
    How someone can give this a 3 is beyond me. The graphics are great, especially the animation, and the gameplay is classic.
  37. Diogoluz
    Apr 11, 2003
    10
    its super colorfull and the controls are very easy.
  38. MikeM.
    Apr 14, 2003
    10
    Great Game!!!
  39. RemainingNameless
    Apr 18, 2003
    10
    this game is wicked!!!!!!! the bosses r kinda easy though, but thats ok becuz the battle with ganon at the end was the best. finally zelda showed that she was useful 4 something other than screaming. even though the graphics r kinda screwed and the game is short, i think it was an amazing segment 2 the L.o.Z series! wicked game!!!!!!!!
  40. JackR.
    Apr 24, 2003
    10
    This game is freakin' amazing. I've been playing it now for about 4 nights and I still keep seeing things that make me say "Wow!". The graphics are gorgeous, the sound is well done, the music is great, the control is tight, the story is amazing, and the game overall is just very well polished. However, there are a few flaws. The camera can be annoying at times, although this This game is freakin' amazing. I've been playing it now for about 4 nights and I still keep seeing things that make me say "Wow!". The graphics are gorgeous, the sound is well done, the music is great, the control is tight, the story is amazing, and the game overall is just very well polished. However, there are a few flaws. The camera can be annoying at times, although this problem plagues almost all 3d games. Traveling the map sometimes feels tedious. Certain repetitive sounds like Link yapping when he jumps can be annoying. These few problems are minor however, and don't detract overall from my enjoyment of the game. This game is so polished and does so well in keeping me interested and amazed that I gave it a 10. … Expand
  41. ChristopherG.
    Apr 24, 2003
    10
    This is my favorite game ever!!!!!!!!
  42. D.C.
    Apr 3, 2003
    10
    Ups: Awesome graphics and visuals, incredible environments, great overall theme, fun combat and cool new items Downs: The Ocarina was better than the Windwaker, but if you're patient and don't mind sailing A LOT then there isn't much to complain about.
  43. Chris
    May 13, 2003
    10
    Yeah, it's a bit easy in places... But it is, without doubt, the most enjoyable game I've ever played, OoT included. Explore the whole(enormous) world and it'll last for ages..
  44. KeeganM.
    May 22, 2003
    10
    Well... when I first saw how the game looked, m I was scpetical, to say the least. Link just doesn't look good as a cartoon. That aside, it is easily thebest games I've ever played... except maybe ocarina of Time. And once you get used to the cartoon-style graphics, you'll see how much better they can animate the game.
  45. SamA.
    May 9, 2003
    10
    Just got it and it is the best game ever! When you see the screenshots of it it looks rubbish but in action its as smooth as a babies bum. 10/10? Definitely
  46. MattR.
    May 9, 2003
    10
    This game is the best game on the GameCube, and is only rivalled by such titles as Final Fantasy on the PS2 and Halo on the Xbox. Every GameCube owner should buy this game because it boasts perfect gameplay, a huge storyline and graphics that (although many would consider them cartoony and a downside) grow on you until you wish all your other games looked like this. It looks like Zelda This game is the best game on the GameCube, and is only rivalled by such titles as Final Fantasy on the PS2 and Halo on the Xbox. Every GameCube owner should buy this game because it boasts perfect gameplay, a huge storyline and graphics that (although many would consider them cartoony and a downside) grow on you until you wish all your other games looked like this. It looks like Zelda has done it again.… Expand
  47. AmberT.
    Jun 3, 2003
    10
    Absolutely brilliant!!!!
  48. BrennanL.
    Jun 30, 2003
    9
    This game is my #2 favorite Zelda only topped by Ocarina of Time this a Must-Buy for everyone even those who don't like Zelda if u can overlook the flaws of it's easiness and it's short story.
  49. AndoryuU.
    Jun 30, 2003
    10
    This game surpasses all others, an outstading play for all ages!
  50. AmyC.
    Jun 7, 2003
    9
    The graphics are cool, the plot is thorough (many twists), and it's overall VERY fun. But here are the reasons I gave it a 9 rather than a 10: 1)That annoying TETRA! I mean, I know she's important (especially when you find out who she really is) but I found her to be extremely unlikable and I couldn't care less about anything bad happening to her. In fact, I really just The graphics are cool, the plot is thorough (many twists), and it's overall VERY fun. But here are the reasons I gave it a 9 rather than a 10: 1)That annoying TETRA! I mean, I know she's important (especially when you find out who she really is) but I found her to be extremely unlikable and I couldn't care less about anything bad happening to her. In fact, I really just wanted her to get killed by that bird. I mean, everytime I play this game with someone they constantly say (and i constantly say) "I hate that girl" or "When's that stupid girl gonna die?" I swear, I haven't met a single person who thought she was "cool". I mean she comes in handy, but I just didn't like her character. 2) Some of the adult characters such as the king of Hyrule, Ganon, and Zelda looked horrible as a cartoon. I mean, when they turned around so you could see their face, I burst out laughing and it was such a serious moment. I couldn't look at either one of them with out busting up. Zelda had makeup smeared on her (strangely enough, she had that problem in OoT) and a head that you could tell was bigger than her body. Ganon was fat and had sideburns bigger than the ones he had in OoT. And the king of hyrule was just plain creeeepy. Sorry, but I couldn't stand seeing them as cartoons. So I'd rather have them look more real. Plus, the plot seems less dark with cartoons. Overall, Windwaker is fantastic, but there were a couple of negatives I couldn't stand. But whatever, what do I know?!… Expand
  51. CarolynB.
    Aug 10, 2003
    10
    The legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is awesome! im always excited to see new boses and i love the animation. its a hard game with all the puzzles, but thats what makes so cool. this is why i rate this a 10.
  52. GameKing
    Aug 9, 2003
    10
    This game is the best GC game ive ever played (except for super smash bros melee.) i havnt even finished it and i still think its the best!!!!!! all my friends that have a GC have it. theres monsters to fight chalenges to take on etc.this is y i gave it a 10.
  53. DanielM.
    Nov 2, 2004
    10
    I do not know how anyone can live without this game.
  54. JonathanA.
    Jan 2, 2004
    10
    I love this game, Its non-stop action!!!!!!
  55. Mercury
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    Perfection.
  56. ArneL.
    Apr 1, 2004
    10
    It's great... everybody that says it's to similar to oot are right but oot is the best game of all time so thats not a bad score. if you don´t have it buy it.
  57. AndreB.
    May 12, 2004
    10
    This game is amazing. It is utterly perfect in every aspect. The graphics are beautiful. They look as good as any Xbox or PC game. The sound is great, including the music. The gameplay is perfect. This game has some of the best gameplay ever. It really feels like Zelda, even with the cel-shaded graphics. Of course it caused controversy, but now that I've played it I couldn't This game is amazing. It is utterly perfect in every aspect. The graphics are beautiful. They look as good as any Xbox or PC game. The sound is great, including the music. The gameplay is perfect. This game has some of the best gameplay ever. It really feels like Zelda, even with the cel-shaded graphics. Of course it caused controversy, but now that I've played it I couldn't imagine this game without cel-shading. Anyway, this game is perfect.… Expand
  58. TedWilsonMattosdeAzevedo
    May 5, 2004
    10
    It´s the game of the year, that´s for sure, some people can talk bad about the game, but who told that never played thegame well, I have this game, I finished, and I can say one thing: This is one of the best games ever created. Perfect cel-shading graphics, incredible battle style, the sea, everything is perfect, the only thing that don´t get to be a problem is because It´s the game of the year, that´s for sure, some people can talk bad about the game, but who told that never played thegame well, I have this game, I finished, and I can say one thing: This is one of the best games ever created. Perfect cel-shading graphics, incredible battle style, the sea, everything is perfect, the only thing that don´t get to be a problem is because the game is a bit short compared to the other Zeldas. But this game is perfect. even with that little defect.… Expand
  59. AndyX.
    Jul 12, 2004
    10
    This is one of the best games on Gamecube so far. I don't know how you people could say this game was short....could be since this is the first zelda game I ever played (still took me weeks to beat). The only other adventure game that gave me this much fun is Metal gear solid: twin snakes.
  60. JennaS.
    Dec 5, 2005
    10
    Wonderful graphics and awesome gameplay! One of my favorites.
  61. BryantJ.
    Mar 4, 2005
    9
    OOT wasnt that great, I think Majora's Mask was the best but this was a great game also... NEVER judge a game by its graphics!
  62. LinkZ.
    Oct 14, 2006
    9
    It was a great game, the graphics weren't that bad and it had a lot of side quests so you could play it for a year and you still didn't do all quests. There where just two things that bugged me. The triforce in chests in the sea. They may have been in a dungeon in Hyrule, but it would have been better if you had to go into those dungeons. And that brings me to my second point: It was a great game, the graphics weren't that bad and it had a lot of side quests so you could play it for a year and you still didn't do all quests. There where just two things that bugged me. The triforce in chests in the sea. They may have been in a dungeon in Hyrule, but it would have been better if you had to go into those dungeons. And that brings me to my second point: Hyrule. I don't like it being underwater, but it would have been sooooooooooo much better if you could explore the dungeons. But hey, if that would happen i couldn't vote because it would have been a 100 out of 10. But it does have a great storyline and, like all Zelda's, it brings something new in the world of gaming.… Expand
  63. RobertF.
    Feb 15, 2006
    10
    Super! Graphics are incredible and longer than people think. Get past the Forsaken Forteress and then the fun with the sword will begin! The BOOMERANG is mega fun!
  64. AnthonyL.
    Mar 24, 2006
    10
    Ok, this was just wonderful. The graphics, the sound and the gameplay are all just top notch. the game was perfect!! If I has to find something to complain about maybe the sailing around the ocean got a tad redundant. this is just one of those games on the Gamecube like Metroid Prime the PS2 and Xbox can never touch.
  65. NathanP.
    Apr 22, 2003
    9
    Man oh man... everyone I knew kept on saying... "OMG, ZELDA IS GONNA SUCK ASS" I was the only one who still had faith in Miyamoto's ability to crank out great games. And boy was I right! Although I thought this game would be perfect, there are a few flaws (the camera can go haywire on your during a few battles), but they all are bearable once you can adjust to them. The graphics look Man oh man... everyone I knew kept on saying... "OMG, ZELDA IS GONNA SUCK ASS" I was the only one who still had faith in Miyamoto's ability to crank out great games. And boy was I right! Although I thought this game would be perfect, there are a few flaws (the camera can go haywire on your during a few battles), but they all are bearable once you can adjust to them. The graphics look gorgeous, and all those who said that the game was too "cartoonish" and "childish"... maybe its you who needs to grow up! I mean, seriously, Zelda brought back what video games was supposed to do in the first place- TO HAVE FUN. The dungeons are well mapped out, and the puzzles are there, but aren't too hard to solve, yet still keep you interested. So be a real grown-up and bring out your inner child and get Wind Waker. This game isn't perfect-- few games are-- but its almost there.… Expand
  66. TierneyTalib
    May 14, 2013
    10
    This is my absolute favourite game of the Zelda series. Great storyline, great characters (except for Tingle, he is hideous :D) It has a lot of amazing bosses and opponents and a cool story. The only problem is that takes a little bit of time on navigating from island to island and when you don't know what to do and start to randomly navigate through islands it gets a little boring.
  67. wegie125
    May 4, 2018
    9
    I don't care what people think, this game was so much fun, it was a real branch away from the zelda games we had been getting before. It had gone from being super dark and something that actually felt scary to something like this that was more cartoony and had me more attached as a kid because it felt like something that was more inviting. Obviously that is just the looks and the gameI don't care what people think, this game was so much fun, it was a real branch away from the zelda games we had been getting before. It had gone from being super dark and something that actually felt scary to something like this that was more cartoony and had me more attached as a kid because it felt like something that was more inviting. Obviously that is just the looks and the game itself was something that I never beat, still to this day I don't know what it is like to have that experience. I hope that they recreate this game one more time because I was one of the many that never got he Wiiu but currently has a switch.… Expand
  68. Redbigot
    Aug 18, 2014
    10
    This game is without doubt a master piece being one of my favourite games of all time and it saddens me that it is never considered to be one of the best game ever and why I always bring it up in these conversations I cans find no fault with it bar the rare frame rate drop in lengthy cannon battles from its beautiful cell shaded graphics with I have no idea why people dislike it for meThis game is without doubt a master piece being one of my favourite games of all time and it saddens me that it is never considered to be one of the best game ever and why I always bring it up in these conversations I cans find no fault with it bar the rare frame rate drop in lengthy cannon battles from its beautiful cell shaded graphics with I have no idea why people dislike it for me they perfectly suit the style of game windwaker is the cell shading really make everything just feel alive from the bosses to the grass yes the grass is gorgeous with the way it flow with the wind and changes when link psychically changes the direction of the wind making for some great puzzles in some of most rounded out and well designed dungeons in any of the zelda franchise it also changes up the formula from previous titles such as ocarina of time and majoras mask with its open world exploration in the vast ocean of a once glorious flooded hyrule this world contains many many islands and secrets which makes filling out the world map hard but not tedious at any stretch of the imagination with lots of references from ocarina of time such as the great deku shrub which has fully grown Over all I think that wind waker is not the best title in the zelda franchise but is easily a close second or third it is outstanding game which everyone should play if not for the game for the vast open oceans and beautiful features this game has to offer… Expand
  69. artificeprime
    Aug 6, 2017
    9
    The Wind Waker succeeds by totally embodying the spirit of adventure that makes most Zelda games great while also offering an experience that is unique. While the visual style isn't quite to my taste, it is a very clean look that makes it one of the more timeless entries in the series. The only thing that holds this game back from reaching the highest echelons of gaming is that it suffersThe Wind Waker succeeds by totally embodying the spirit of adventure that makes most Zelda games great while also offering an experience that is unique. While the visual style isn't quite to my taste, it is a very clean look that makes it one of the more timeless entries in the series. The only thing that holds this game back from reaching the highest echelons of gaming is that it suffers from relatively little content and a lot of tedious backtracking. Despite its minor flaws though I was totally swept away by the adventure and the game also offers some of the most surprising moments in the series.

    The gameplay in Wind Waker takes most of the best aspects of the last couple games while offering some excellent additions. Sailing is Wind Waker's main new mechanic and it works beautifully, it is easy to use while still being fun and immersive. The camera is probably the best I have seen in any game and is far better than the camera was in Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask. With the second control stick you have complete control and even have multiple levels of zoom (which is a great feature that was unfortunately removed from the next few games in the series). Combat is a bit more simplistic in this game than some of the others but it is fast paced and offers some really fun abilities such as the roll counter attack which looks and feels awesome. it would have been nice to have more items but the ones that you get are mostly excellent. The grappling hook is a great multi purpose item that is both fun to use and very helpful. Wind Waker also offers some of the best stealth sections in any Zelda game. They don't require an immense amount skill but they do a great job of creating tension. Almost everything about the gameplay lends itself to the overall sense of adventure and immersion.

    Story wise Wind Waker is pretty simple but it succeeds in telling a simple story very well. It also does a good job of taking risks with the standard Zelda plot and offers some really great twists and turns. Each major location offers at least a couple memorable moments. From beggining to end I felt immersed in the story and always wanted to find out what was next. Despite its cartoony style it also offers some pretty dark moments. Like most of my favorite Zelda games the story is bittersweet. The ending is probably one of my favorites in a Zelda game. It isn't my favorite Zelda story but its certainly not a bad one.

    The world map is a bit small in terms of land area and there aren't as many dungeons as I would have liked but the vast freedom of exploring the ocean makes up for a lot of that. The Dungeons they do have are pretty good but not the best in the series. I don't really have many complaints about the world I just wish that it had more meaningful locations to visit.

    In terms of characters there aren't a lot in this game but most of the ones that they do have play pretty good role in the story. This games version of Ganondorf seems to have a lot more depth than most of his other incarnations. Unfortunately there are only a couple of Sage like characters that you get to adventure with but at least you get to interact with them quite a bit and the companions do turn out to be quite useful, unlike many of the companions in other Zelda games. The King of Red Lions was also a really interesting and unique sidekick character.

    Visually I find it hard to rate Wind Waker. While I really don't like the style chosen for the characters, I do like the clean graphics and timeless cartoon looking environments. This certainly isn't my favorite look for a Zelda game but playing it years later among all the 3D Zelda games I think it has aged the best. While I don't want to see this style of characters used in anymore mainline Zelda titles I think the idea of focusing on clean elegant design over more realistic looking graphics is a good choice. Overall most aspects of Wind Waker look great, my complaints are more style related than technical failings. For example I really hate the look of the fairies in this game and I don't like how most of the characters look like bobble heads.

    Sound Design is generally an area where the Zelda franchise excels and this is no exception. Every area has a memorable theme and the music is almost perfectly suited to the setting. As an instrument I didn't like the wind waker quite as much as the Ocarina but it serves its purpose both as a mechanic and as a story element. Almost all of the sound design helps to create an immersive experience, I don't really recall any moments where the music or sound effects were annoying. It isn't my favorite Zelda sound track but it is close to the top and it certainly has its own style.

    Over all The Wind Waker is a fantastic game. It is true to the Zelda formula while also having its own identity. I think it would have been a better game with more dungeons, unique items and plot points but the ones it does have are good.

    I give it 91%    … Expand
  70. Kakadu
    Oct 5, 2020
    10
    Definitely an absolute masterpiece and still one of the best games in the franchise and genre. One of my favorite childhood games.
  71. Sepferod
    Jun 20, 2020
    8
    Первая игра о Зельде с большим и открытым миром,интересная с неустаревающей графикой,до сих пор выглядит замечательно,всем рекомендую.
  72. tukumalu
    Mar 17, 2020
    10
    A timeless classic with ahead of its time open world design and gameplay. There are tedious sections that got made up by a satisfying ending
  73. tcost
    Apr 12, 2020
    10
    Big legend among the other Zelda legends... Favourite game of all time. Gameplay, visual style, most impressive zelda story so far, and best ending ever: very unexpected and satisfying. 10/10 for this legend. Will never be forgotten, thank you zelda team.
  74. bancandrei
    May 13, 2020
    8
    This game nails the atmosphere and nails it hard. One of the best games about the innocent joy of exploration. Criticized at launch for the art style, it pretty much ensured that it has aged marvelously, probably best game of all time in that regard.
    The story, the joy of exploring and the childlike wonder of this world make it a game worth checking out by anyone. Simply put this is a    This game nails the atmosphere and nails it hard. One of the best games about the innocent joy of exploration. Criticized at launch for the art style, it pretty much ensured that it has aged marvelously, probably best game of all time in that regard.
    The story, the joy of exploring and the childlike wonder of this world make it a game worth checking out by anyone. Simply put this is a game that sparks joy.    … Expand
  75. Nikg92
    Jun 2, 2020
    10
    This was one of my favorite childhood games. The cell-shaded graphics came as a surprise to some, but Zelda fans know that Nintendo likes to be creative and switch up the art style for this franchise; it was a welcome surprise to me. I also really enjoyed the cartoon-like aesthetic and sounds. I say if you're too 'grown' for the cartoon-aesthetic then maybe you're too 'grown' for videoThis was one of my favorite childhood games. The cell-shaded graphics came as a surprise to some, but Zelda fans know that Nintendo likes to be creative and switch up the art style for this franchise; it was a welcome surprise to me. I also really enjoyed the cartoon-like aesthetic and sounds. I say if you're too 'grown' for the cartoon-aesthetic then maybe you're too 'grown' for video games, saying cartoons are only for kids is ironically childish.
    They stayed true to the spirit of Zelda games and its lore. The storytelling was phenomenal and the music was beautiful. They came a long way in terms of working out a fluid controller and camera system compared to their N64 titles, though it was finicky at times, particularly in dungeons and while sailing. The sailing sometimes seemed monotonous but on the other hand, it was a good time to take a breather and reflect on my progress. Like most other popular Zelda titles, the replay potential is great and the story is long allowing 100+ hours of enjoyable gameplay for completionists like myself. My main complaints for this title is that there is a considerable amount of backtracking in some dungeons and the beginning of the game contains a lot of unskippable dialog and cutscenes; forcing repeat players to navigate through an intro that is over an hour to start a new game.    … Expand
  76. INU4SH4
    Jun 22, 2020
    9
    It's 2020 and today I finally finished this Nintendo Gem.

    Wind Waker is an exceptional open-world adventure game. Surely a must for fans of the genre. Its world and aesthetics are pretty unique to this day and I rarely find a video game world that hooked me this badly. Every island was fun to discover and explore and I really appreciated the small details and secrets. When it comes    It's 2020 and today I finally finished this Nintendo Gem.

    Wind Waker is an exceptional open-world adventure game. Surely a must for fans of the genre. Its world and aesthetics are pretty unique to this day and I rarely find a video game world that hooked me this badly. Every island was fun to discover and explore and I really appreciated the small details and secrets.

    When it comes to story, it starts quite slow and simple but later on, it becomes really interesting and quite mind-blowing. The characters and the dialog were pretty comical and fitted the game's visuals like a glove. Gameplay-wise it was simple but at the same time pretty challenging when it came to some bosses and challenges. Just what I expected from a LoZ game.

    Now, let's talk about the small things that held this game from being a true masterpiece to me. There were a few times when cruising though the ocean and backtracking before unlocking 'fast-travel' that turned out a bit tedious and at times some instructions and puzzles weren't very comprehensive. But that's pretty much all the negative stuff I have to point out.

    Overall, great game and definitely on par with my favorites Ocarina of Time and Breath of the Wild. I'd give it a 9 or 9.5/10.    … Expand
  77. Jessicaw
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Everything about this game is fun and loveable. The soundtrack was amazing, the characters were interesting and the world felt bigger than it truly was. It had fun twists, even if they were expected and a good story line.
  78. Classy
    Jun 28, 2020
    9
    My favourite Zelda game. The reason i gave it a 9 because the wii u version is on an entirely different planet.
  79. Toasty87
    Jul 16, 2020
    9
    Still holds up today with its beautiful animation and sound rough in small parts though.
  80. aaasss555
    Jul 17, 2020
    10
    This game changed my life! Great memories with this master piece, played 15 times.
  81. Okevin212
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    I had to get used to the cel graphics. This game is super fun I love the deku leaf. Controlling the wind, riding a boat through the open sea, looking for treasure, this game was a nice twist. Really fun.
  82. manugd22
    Jul 20, 2020
    10
    Mi videojuego de Zelda favorito, mi infancia, simplemente eso. Cada vez que juego me transmite unos recuerdos muy bonitos del pasado.
  83. selbaC
    Dec 18, 2010
    10
    Nintendo have certainly kept their expectations high while creating this game, an amazing story line (as always) and a very well though out layout (dungeons and the Great Sea). The "Wind Waker" for me, ranks higher than the "Twilight Princess" and "Majora's Mask", and can't wait for the next game to be released ..

    10/10
  84. NickB.
    Feb 24, 2003
    9
    I'm sick of everyone say that this game looks stupid because of the cartoonish graphics. I bet not one of the people that have gave it a bad score because of that have not played the demo. I played the demo at the store and the game is awesome. The level you get to play has lava all over the place and the screen actually kinda waves from the heat, like when you look over the fire. I'm sick of everyone say that this game looks stupid because of the cartoonish graphics. I bet not one of the people that have gave it a bad score because of that have not played the demo. I played the demo at the store and the game is awesome. The level you get to play has lava all over the place and the screen actually kinda waves from the heat, like when you look over the fire. It's an awesome game and I can't wait to play the whole thing.… Expand
  85. SuperSourSauce
    Nov 6, 2017
    10
    Sang in the voice of Pat Benatar and her 1979 classic, Heartbreaker:

    "He's a wind waker!

    Pot breaker!

    Heart taker!

    Chicken shaker!"

    Cartoony Link has aged so well. I freakin' love this game.
  86. SamG.
    May 7, 2003
    10
    I haven't played this game yet but I a Zelda Fan!!! So I don't care what it looks like because its not about the graphics. Its about what type of game you like.
  87. ErikF.
    Jun 9, 2003
    10
    Best game ever!
  88. ChaCha
    Aug 1, 2003
    10
    Incredible. All you people talk about are the cartoon like graphics, but once I played through the game, I couldn't imagine anything else. Tell me what game can you sail stormy seas, fight gigantic creatures from the depths of the ocean, and watch clouds form and move in the sky. This game is truely a dream. No this game doesn't have the dungeon depth in the Ocarina of Time, but Incredible. All you people talk about are the cartoon like graphics, but once I played through the game, I couldn't imagine anything else. Tell me what game can you sail stormy seas, fight gigantic creatures from the depths of the ocean, and watch clouds form and move in the sky. This game is truely a dream. No this game doesn't have the dungeon depth in the Ocarina of Time, but I love its courage to explore the Zelda universe and actually include more defined NPC's. I rank it up there with A Link to the Past.… Expand
  89. LiNkZB.
    Apr 20, 2004
    9
    I loved this game, I finished it twice and I don't get bored by it, although OoT is better in my opinion I still give this game a 9 ^_^.
  90. Carl
    May 6, 2006
    7
    Its well put together, and the graphics are fantastic, but the game is just too easy and the whole thing feels rushed. There arn't enough dungeons, theres not enough land, and the music is terrible. It lacks the 'magic' of previous Zeldas and comes across as kind of shallow and forgetable. It's more of a throwaway game, something Zelda has never been before.
  91. ShelbyM.
    Apr 8, 2006
    5
    it is an ok game but for the third pearl you get you don't have to do anything! when me and my BFF Rebecca were playing (we are HUGE zelda fans) we beat the deku tree and went to the place to blow up the rock slab and we were kinda hoping that we would have to do somthing to get the pearl! i mean come on! they just got lazy at that part! i mean it just comes out of the whales bell! it is an ok game but for the third pearl you get you don't have to do anything! when me and my BFF Rebecca were playing (we are HUGE zelda fans) we beat the deku tree and went to the place to blow up the rock slab and we were kinda hoping that we would have to do somthing to get the pearl! i mean come on! they just got lazy at that part! i mean it just comes out of the whales bell! and why dont you grow up in this game! if i was rating ocarina of time i would give it a ten! that is the best zelda game ever, OoT i beat that game atleast 5 times that is how much i love it!… Expand
  92. GameDemon
    Aug 6, 2003
    6
    game is pretty good overall, but falls short in nearly every area (story, gameplay, etc.)
  93. DanW.
    Apr 1, 2003
    6
    As I peruse the "reviews" penned by the "critics" listed here on Metacritic, I get the impression more of a Miyamoto-san back-patting contest than of anything resembling objectivity. Indeed more shocking, however, are the reviews that touch on Wind Wakers significant flaws, and then proceed to give it a perfect score anyway. Yes, the game is gorgeous. The music and sound are passable, As I peruse the "reviews" penned by the "critics" listed here on Metacritic, I get the impression more of a Miyamoto-san back-patting contest than of anything resembling objectivity. Indeed more shocking, however, are the reviews that touch on Wind Wakers significant flaws, and then proceed to give it a perfect score anyway. Yes, the game is gorgeous. The music and sound are passable, though nothing extraordinary, usually just treading old ground again. The gameplay is a mixed bag. On the one hand, it's brilliant nearly all the time. On the other hand, the lock-on system varies from awkward to useless, and the camera is maddening, often positioning itself in the place most opposed to usefulness. In all, it's a great game with serious problems, like a supermodel with a club foot. It's certainly not a 10, or a 9. In fact, I give it a 6.… Expand
  94. cynicalshade
    Aug 30, 2018
    4
    Not a single moment where I actually enjoyed this game, it's genuinely tedious to playthrough, with the game rarely telling you where you should go and what you should do.
  95. IanR.
    Jun 27, 2007
    3
    The sailing is awful in this game. There's barely anything in the ocean to interact with, so you're mostly sailing across a big, blue oblivion trying to get to an island so hopefully you can do something interesting. The whole wind baton thing is tedious and not at all interesting or intuitive. Design-wise, it's extremely inconsistant and gameplay-wise is not very much The sailing is awful in this game. There's barely anything in the ocean to interact with, so you're mostly sailing across a big, blue oblivion trying to get to an island so hopefully you can do something interesting. The whole wind baton thing is tedious and not at all interesting or intuitive. Design-wise, it's extremely inconsistant and gameplay-wise is not very much improved over Ocarina of Time. I was just massively disappointed by this game, it's generally amazinly lackluster and doesn't deserve the praise it recieves. If you haven't checked it out yet, just give it a pass. Try Okami on the PS2 instead, it's very similar but doesn't share the majority of Wind Waker's flaws.… Expand
  96. ChrisM.
    Jan 1, 2004
    4
    After the exciting epic that was Ocarina of Time (OOT) and the fun filled Majora's Mask this game was a big dissapointment. It just failed to capture my attention like OOT did.
  97. BrianK.
    Jan 6, 2004
    3
    I really hated this game!! I gave it a 3 because of the pretty good graphics but thats it. Too Kiddy like!!
  98. SeanO
    Jul 27, 2009
    0
    The only Zelda game I haven't finished. The graphics were to cutesy for my taste, but if the gameplay and world detail were even half what they were in OOT it would have made up for it. A boring point A to point B railroading fest.
  99. BennettR.
    Aug 4, 2003
    0
    Find yourself some images of the Spaceworld 2000 preview graphics. Only THEN will you be able to see what a horror this game is.
  100. Anonymousguy
    Mar 21, 2003
    0
    Nintendo did the one thing I never thought they would do. They turned Zelda (previously a great series) into a cash-in. Nintendo has really got to get its act together before it loses all of its fans. Unless you are under the age of 7 or very immature for your age you will probably not enjoy this game.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best GameCube Game of 2003
1
#1 Most Discussed GameCube Game of 2003
4
#4 Most Shared GameCube Game of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 80 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 80 out of 80
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 80
  3. Negative: 0 out of 80
  1. Weekly Famitsu
    100
    10 / 10 / 10/ 10 - 40 platinum
  2. NTSC-uk
    100
    When one picks up the controller, the ability to step into that time and place (never more hauntingly beautiful than in this latest instalment) never loses its allure. Even the most hardened of cynics would have to admit that this title is something else entirely. It's the stuff of dreams. [JPN Import]
    Read full review
  3. Eurogamer
    100
    Simply a stunning, magical game.
    Read full review
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