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. 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.
  2. joehi1
    Jan 15, 2018
    9
    The Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker is a visual masterpiece and an amazing addition to the already phenomenal series. Wind Waker completely overhauled the graphics of the Zelda series, and while some may say that the graphics catered too much to a younger audience, in reality, the cell shaded graphics are the best fit for Zelda. Wind Waker offers some of the most fluid gameplay ZeldaThe Legend Of Zelda: The Wind Waker is a visual masterpiece and an amazing addition to the already phenomenal series. Wind Waker completely overhauled the graphics of the Zelda series, and while some may say that the graphics catered too much to a younger audience, in reality, the cell shaded graphics are the best fit for Zelda. Wind Waker offers some of the most fluid gameplay Zelda series, with fast-paced exciting combat, and one of the first experiences of an open world in video games. A large part of Wind Waker involves riding on the sea and it's truly amazing how free you feel while operating the King of Red Lions. Sailing around gives the game such an open feeling that makes the player feel as if they are in control of where they want to go and not the feeling of linearity that players so used to in the Zelda franchise. Puzzles are still as fun as ever, and the game does a fairly good job at directing you where you have to go to continue the story without outright forcing you to go there. The story is still as charming as ever to the triforce shard quests do feel quite boring and uninspired, causing a part of the game to lose its immersiveness. Overall Wind Waker is by far one of the greatest games ever created by Nintendo and probably one of the greatest games ever made. Wind Waker proves that changes to a well-established franchise are not always a bad thing and can sometimes rejuvenate a franchise and make it feel new to players all over again

    Cons
    Triforce shard quest is still boring.    … Expand
  3. DarrionVale
    Aug 14, 2019
    9
    My personal rating for "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker" (GC): 8,6/10 - Awesome
    Gameplay: 9
    Video: 8
    Audio: 8
    Scope: 9
    Balance: 8,5
    Story: 7
  4. castillo2war
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    Only problem this game has, for me, is Tingle. The game would be a perfect 10/10 if it had no Tingle.
  5. Ernest_Figueroa
    Nov 23, 2018
    9
    Un excelente juego de la saga, la grafica cartoon no me agrada, música excelente, la historia inicia bien y luego se estanca, aun así la exploración de las islas es un llamado al explorador que todos llevamos dentro. Esta historia me a gustado mucho y ganon se lleva mi respeto para siempre.
  6. Fletch1027
    Feb 21, 2023
    9
    A fun Zelda game with great music, fun character designs and one of the most charming versions of Hyrule.
  7. JayNxtGen
    Nov 10, 2019
    9
    The Wind Waker the first game I owned on the Nintendo Gamecube and I still love to this day with the Wii U HD release.

    This game is one of the best adventures you could have even by todays standards the graphics are timeless and the world is rich making even Sea of Thieves look weak (and I like Sea of Thieves) each island had a different feel and theme and it makes things feel so fresh    The Wind Waker the first game I owned on the Nintendo Gamecube and I still love to this day with the Wii U HD release.

    This game is one of the best adventures you could have even by todays standards the graphics are timeless and the world is rich making even Sea of Thieves look weak (and I like Sea of Thieves) each island had a different feel and theme and it makes things feel so fresh from a dark sea fortress to a happy little town with weird people and mysteries. if you want to jump into this game I would suggest the Wii U version as it does make improvements to quality of life issues such as the tri-force hunt and travel speed. Nintendo did it again and made one of the best adventure games ever.    … Expand
  8. spencerplewe
    Nov 14, 2020
    9
    With an expressive art style, fun personalities, wonderful music, and the unmistakably tried and true controls of the series, The Wind Waker is a unique main Zelda entry that took a major risk in shifting its aesthetic and world building formula, and largely pays off.
  9. MaoZedong
    Dec 1, 2020
    9
    It is easily one of the best games from the GameCube, and if played on an emulator with a widescreen hack, it looks like it could be a modern game. The dungeon design is some of the weakest in the series, but still very fun. The triforce piece hunt is annoying though, and I wish they kept the cut dungeons.
  10. 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
  11. Veskass
    Aug 6, 2021
    9
    If we take away the cursed quest for Triforce Fragments, this game is incredible. A successful atmosphere, endearing characters and much more dynamic gameplay.
  12. 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.
  13. Toasty87
    Jul 16, 2020
    9
    Still holds up today with its beautiful animation and sound rough in small parts though.
  14. 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.
  15. ylnylmn
    Jul 10, 2022
    9
    Like Ocarina and Majora, I played until the end without getting bored. I'm someone who can get bored of other games quickly, but Zelda games draw me in. Zelda has come up with a new formula with Wind Waker. Some aspects are good and some aspects are bad. In fact, if we look at the basics of the game, the OOT mechanics are still valid. Other than the concept, not much has been changed.Like Ocarina and Majora, I played until the end without getting bored. I'm someone who can get bored of other games quickly, but Zelda games draw me in. Zelda has come up with a new formula with Wind Waker. Some aspects are good and some aspects are bad. In fact, if we look at the basics of the game, the OOT mechanics are still valid. Other than the concept, not much has been changed. That's why there hasn't been a game that impressed me as much as OOT. The good aspects of the game do not end with counting. Main things I don't like. Dungeons are more mundane and simple than OOT. Boat riding can be tiring at times. You have to constantly change the wind direction. Sometimes it can be difficult to find the treasure even if you are in treasure sound. There are few important NPCs and towns, which made the game feel a bit empty. The drawings and music of the game are very very good. Very good game overall.… Expand
  16. Uncle_Steve
    Jul 14, 2021
    9
    The most fascinating and unique Zelda game in my opinion. The ocean world is very big, the story is simple and gripping and the dungeons are fun, albeit very easy. With more development time, there definitely could've been more. It included a bonus Disk with Ocarina of Time, which made this game a phenomenal value for 60 bucks back then in 2003.
  17. chochinx16
    Apr 29, 2023
    9
    From my humble opinion, it is the most underrated game in the saga of the legend of zelda since it has a fun gameplay and a fun story and also has charismatic characters. Although it was criticized at the time for its graphics, I think it is the best experience to start in the Legend of Zelda franchise, since the game is very fun and creative and I only have one problem, which isFrom my humble opinion, it is the most underrated game in the saga of the legend of zelda since it has a fun gameplay and a fun story and also has charismatic characters. Although it was criticized at the time for its graphics, I think it is the best experience to start in the Legend of Zelda franchise, since the game is very fun and creative and I only have one problem, which is collecting the fragments of the triforce apart from that it seems to me a phenomenal and almost perfect game… Expand
  18. DarkwingSchmuck
    Mar 4, 2022
    9
    To this day, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker boasts the most charming and visually appealing aesthetic in the entire franchise. This gorgeous game builds off the excellent Ocarina of Time in many ways, though it does feature fewer dungeons than its predecessor. Furthermore, while its core sailing mechanic is a grand time at first, it does eventually wear out its welcome, and late inTo this day, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker boasts the most charming and visually appealing aesthetic in the entire franchise. This gorgeous game builds off the excellent Ocarina of Time in many ways, though it does feature fewer dungeons than its predecessor. Furthermore, while its core sailing mechanic is a grand time at first, it does eventually wear out its welcome, and late in the game you're forced to utilize it for one of the most tedious quests in any Zelda title.… Expand
  19. ElRagnarLocro
    Mar 31, 2022
    9
    A estas alturas ya es repetitivo hablar de la saga Zelda, que se transformó en sinónimo de excelencia. Wind Waker no se queda atrás en los estándares de la saga y es precioso en todo. Lo único negativo que puedo decir es que se hecha en falta la presencia de grandes escenarios para moverse y explorar en tierra. La idea del mar es excelente y lo hace el gran juego que es, pero siento queA estas alturas ya es repetitivo hablar de la saga Zelda, que se transformó en sinónimo de excelencia. Wind Waker no se queda atrás en los estándares de la saga y es precioso en todo. Lo único negativo que puedo decir es que se hecha en falta la presencia de grandes escenarios para moverse y explorar en tierra. La idea del mar es excelente y lo hace el gran juego que es, pero siento que las islas presentes por el mapa son demasiados pequeñas y no tienen tanto por explorar dentro de ellas, y ni hablar que algunas son solo islas de un solo puzzle.
    Nota final: 9    … Expand
  20. RedLion
    May 2, 2022
    9
    The windwaker is a masterpiece. it may have some big flaws but everything from the exploration to the music to the artstyle it's just amazing. the only few flaws are the dungeon design and the triforce piece quest. I would make it a 9.5 if I could
  21. ZackH25
    Jun 1, 2023
    9
    A fun and fairly easy Zelda game. Had good but relatively not great dungeons. The story is quite good and Ganondorf is an excellent final boss in this game, especially with the music in the background. The open world is fun when on an island but it can get repetitive sailing all the time. The arena area where you fight a bunch of different enemies by falling down a hole is extremely fun.A fun and fairly easy Zelda game. Had good but relatively not great dungeons. The story is quite good and Ganondorf is an excellent final boss in this game, especially with the music in the background. The open world is fun when on an island but it can get repetitive sailing all the time. The arena area where you fight a bunch of different enemies by falling down a hole is extremely fun. The best dungeon is either the foresaken fortress or the shadow temple. Overall a great Zelda game let down by some of its dungeons.… Expand
  22. MichaelW.
    Sep 8, 2006
    8
    Zelda WW was a great game. I bought into the animation style and I enjoyed the story. My only complaint about this game was in the pacing. I felt that too many time, especially near the beginning of the game, I was sailing for what felt like hours on end. This problem is the one reason that I have not played this game through multiple times, like I have done for other Zelda games. It is Zelda WW was a great game. I bought into the animation style and I enjoyed the story. My only complaint about this game was in the pacing. I felt that too many time, especially near the beginning of the game, I was sailing for what felt like hours on end. This problem is the one reason that I have not played this game through multiple times, like I have done for other Zelda games. It is the one thing that keeps this very good game from becoming truly great.… Expand
  23. JerradH.
    Mar 13, 2003
    8
    Fun game and a worthy edition to the Zelda series, but because of the graphical style that I really don't care for (I don't mind kiddie Link, I just don't like toddler meth-addict Link), and the occasional bit of boring repetitiveness in the gameplay department, its still not as good as Ocarina of Time, and Metroid Prime still rules the Gamecube roost.
  24. XISMZERO
    Jul 13, 2003
    8
    Fine visuals, and gameplay - that doesn't last long enough - Am I the only one who thought Wind Waker fell apart at nearing the end of the game with all those tedious tasks?
  25. EricH.
    Sep 28, 2003
    8
    The reviews written by magazine and internet critics explain the good parts of the game but I don't believe the game deserves a 10 or a 9. The reason is that the game has flaws. The game is too easy. Players do not get as many dungeons like in other zelda games. I find the small amounts of land in the game annoying but that is just a personal complaint. The first part of the game is The reviews written by magazine and internet critics explain the good parts of the game but I don't believe the game deserves a 10 or a 9. The reason is that the game has flaws. The game is too easy. Players do not get as many dungeons like in other zelda games. I find the small amounts of land in the game annoying but that is just a personal complaint. The first part of the game is real good. Then the second part is bleh... you have to find maps that lead to the triforce. The problem with that is to get the maps you have to go down several holes and fight bad guys which pose no challenge. Then you have to pay a fairy to decode the maps and then go pull up the treasure beneath the sea. … Expand
  26. SamD.
    Oct 12, 2005
    8
    When you think zelda, you think greatness, you think amazing, you think best game ever made: windwaker is the black sheep. It is good, but when i first turned it on the words 'what the f*ck were they thinking' were the first to leave my mouth the visuals as most people now, look like freaking anime. plus, link is a kid the whole effing time. this game single-handedly gaveWhen you think zelda, you think greatness, you think amazing, you think best game ever made: windwaker is the black sheep. It is good, but when i first turned it on the words 'what the f*ck were they thinking' were the first to leave my mouth the visuals as most people now, look like freaking anime. plus, link is a kid the whole effing time. this game single-handedly gave gamecube the nick-name "kiddie-cube"… Expand
  27. XaviorR.
    May 17, 2006
    8
    After you get over the graphics this game is awesome. Also I like exploring the seas. There weren't very many dungeons, and I didn't like changing wind direction all the time.
  28. drlowdon
    Jun 8, 2013
    8
    The Legend of Zelda franchise is highly regarded in gaming circles with the Ocarina of Time regularly featuring near the top of 'Best Ever Game' lists. As a result The Wind Waker had a lot to live up to on release, fortunately Nintendo have yet again delivered.

    Taking place 100 years after the classic N64 title The Wind Waker is arguably the most epic in the series to date. The game    The Legend of Zelda franchise is highly regarded in gaming circles with the Ocarina of Time regularly featuring near the top of 'Best Ever Game' lists. As a result The Wind Waker had a lot to live up to on release, fortunately Nintendo have yet again delivered.

    Taking place 100 years after the classic N64 title The Wind Waker is arguably the most epic in the series to date. The game starts on Link's birthday as he is given the famous green outfit that every boy receives upon reaching a certain age. Before the celebrations are over however his sister is kidnapped and thus begins his quest. Players will soon notice that Hyrule has changed greatly in the past 100 years and following a great flood everyone is forced to travel by boat. Despite this the play mechanics are similar to its N64 predecessors with the islands dotted around the world acting as the usual dungeons with puzzles to solve and enemies to defeat.

    Some of these dungeons are perhaps a little similar but a number of minor tweaks and improvements help to differentiate the game from others in the series. Control of Link is now far more intuitive and every action can be executed with a level of precision that even most modern games cannot match with the Gamecubes C-Stick now allowing for manual control of the camera helping to alleviate any line of sight problems. Combat is also improved with enemies offering visual clues as to their next attack allowing the player to react with cinematic attacks if they time there moves correctly.

    A sense of scale is maintained throughout the game with players being able to travel virtually anyway right from the get go with only few areas being inaccessible for plot reasons. Travelling across the seas in your boat is for the most part an enjoyable experience with random enemy encounters keeping you on your toes. Strangely it is the Wind Waker instrument itself that is the biggest annoyance. Playing it changes the direction of the wind allowing link to sail in the desired direction but an animation sequence, that cannot be skipped, means this takes far longer than necessary and can be particularly irritating when you need to change direction two or three times to reach your destination.

    It is easy to forget any minor problems however when given over twenty hours of gameplay and the best graphics of any game on the console (or most other consoles for that matter). The Wind Waker is an underrated gem in the Zelda series and well worth picking up on the Gamecube or Wii console.    … Expand
  29. asggamefan
    Jun 18, 2011
    8
    Much better then I expected! Sure sailing around the ocean was tedious at times but it was part of what made the Wind Waker unique. The graphics and look of the game had it's ups and downs but it was still filled with predominately ups. Still a great game that I would recommend especially for fans of the Legend of Zelda series.
  30. snowsnows85
    May 19, 2012
    8
    An epic game but could have been so much more. Less sailing would have been a lot more enjoyable and maybe better dungeons and richer story line. Saving your sister and bumping into Zelda is kind of strange. I did enjoy the art style very much though. Needed better items and better dungeons too.
  31. chronoT
    Sep 5, 2012
    8
    Before I say anything else, I will say that overall Wind Waker is an extremely innovative and intriguing Zelda title, worthy of the addition to the series. I will however say that there are a few things here that set this game back from being the "perfect gem" it could have been. First off, while the graphics are cartoonish, they feel smooth after adapting and fit well with the ZeldaBefore I say anything else, I will say that overall Wind Waker is an extremely innovative and intriguing Zelda title, worthy of the addition to the series. I will however say that there are a few things here that set this game back from being the "perfect gem" it could have been. First off, while the graphics are cartoonish, they feel smooth after adapting and fit well with the Zelda theme. Some environments including dungeons do lack some excitement though, the depth portrayed in previous titles is hindered by the graphics. The game play is very solid and boss fights are challenging, but overall I feel the difficulty is not on par with other titles. Finding certain items and areas can take some time, but the excessive time spent at sea can get EXTREMELY tedious. With a few flaws set aside though, Wind Waker is actually a blast to play, the story is great, and the entire adventure will take some serious time. If you are a Zelda fan like me, this game is worth exploring if you haven't already, just make sure you don't get sea-sick.… Expand
  32. WheelzFourReelz
    Dec 30, 2014
    8
    This game does have some frustrating moments and the controls take some getting used to, but The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is a very fun and charming game that everyone needs to play.
  33. Alef123
    Nov 4, 2015
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a Passable zelda game, only good, at the start was awesome with those cartoon graphics and everything, those expressions were good. Then the second act come, the earth temple was great but the wind temple was awfull. Then the search for the treasure chart and triforces i was dead by that part of boring. It's a good zelda game to beat but it's because is a zelda game. Expect good things at first expression but also expect things drop excitment after.… Expand
  34. yoshistar456
    Mar 21, 2016
    8
    What many consider the best Zelda game along with Ocarina of Time, uh, no. I don't hate this game, but I can never say this is the best Zelda by far. Let's start off with the problems. The soundtrack is a tiny eensy little bit dull. Especially for a Zelda game. The great sea is really, really huge and bare. It has to be the most expansive overworld in any Zelda game. But it's a little easyWhat many consider the best Zelda game along with Ocarina of Time, uh, no. I don't hate this game, but I can never say this is the best Zelda by far. Let's start off with the problems. The soundtrack is a tiny eensy little bit dull. Especially for a Zelda game. The great sea is really, really huge and bare. It has to be the most expansive overworld in any Zelda game. But it's a little easy to get lost, so watch out. Also, the dungeon design is somewhat simple. Never in this game did I have a part that stumped me for hours trying to figure out what to do next. Now the positives. This game is absolutely gorgeous. It's in my opinion, the best looking game on the Gamecube. Next, the story, oh god the story. It's one of the best in the series. I won't spoil it, but all I can say is... wow. Next, the combat. This game's combat is arguably the best in the Zelda franchise. It makes some enemies, like Darknuts, really, REALLY fun to fight. It feels really good to attack enemies again and again. When you killed the enemy, it makes you feel like you've killed a real life monster. In the end, Wind Waker, while not the best game in the series, is still something I recommend you beat at least once.… Expand
  35. mvpeter24
    Jul 2, 2016
    8
    The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is the most divisive Zelda game ever. When it came out, fans criticized its visual style, but now, the game should be scrutinized for much different reasons.

    This is a Zelda game, and there are no *bad* Zelda games. But, admittedly, this game may be the weakest of the five currently released 3D Zelda titles. For all its highs, the game has more    The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is the most divisive Zelda game ever. When it came out, fans criticized its visual style, but now, the game should be scrutinized for much different reasons.

    This is a Zelda game, and there are no *bad* Zelda games. But, admittedly, this game may be the weakest of the five currently released 3D Zelda titles. For all its highs, the game has more lows than any of the others in the series. More than anything else, this game seems bipolar, giving us some of the best moments in any Zelda game, but burying these moments under unnecessary sloppy gameplay and tedium.

    The game's atmosphere, visuals, and story are the best we've ever seen from the franchise. The sense of adventure in a Zelda game has never been as palpable as it is here in The Wind Waker. Sailing, while painfully slow, gives the player a sense of wonder that is unmatched in other Zelda titles. The graphics look incredible even 15 years down the line. The cel-shading graphical style may have been controversial at the time the game was made, but it has aged better than any other game in its generation. In terms of the story, Ganondorf's plight has never been as poignant as it is in this game. The game inspires you to care for its characters through dialogue that will make you laugh (mostly from Tetra) and make you think (mostly from Ganondorf).

    But while The Wind Waker hits it out of the park in so many respects, the game drags its feet an equal amount. The game's pacing is terrible. The first 3-4 hours of the game are filled with boring and frustrating stealth quests and overlong exposition. When the game finally takes the reins off and sets the player free, it feels like you've already been playing the game forever and leaves a bad taste in your mouth. The final two dungeons in the game: the "Wind Temple" and the "Earth Temple" are among the most forgettable dungeons in series history. The game never really introduces any groundbreaking items or concepts in its dungeons, just sort of rehashing the familiar puzzles we've done before. But, without a doubt, the biggest offense that this game has is its excessively tedious third act. After dungeoncrawling through the first two-thirds of the game, the entire game is mixed up and the player is stunned to find that there are no more dungeons for him to play. Instead, he must comb the open sea, looking for nine mini-dungeons where he will find "Triforce Charts." After obtaining these charts, the player must pay exorbitant amounts of money to have them translated. After they are translated, the player has to further decode the maps and find where they hide their treasure. Then, the player must go fishing in the open sea to for this treasure, called "Triforce Shards". Once all nine shards are obtained, the player can unlock the final boss. If this sounds tedious, it's because it is. This whole section of the game just serves to pad play time, and it is not satisfying at all. Any momentum the game had going for it is totally stopped when the player reaches this point, and the game just slowly crawls along, while the player just wants to fight the final boss already.

    If you're coming into the Zelda series as a new fan, don't pick this game to play as your first Zelda title. The visuals may be enticing, but the pacing is so poor that you should certainly choose a different title to start with. If you're a Zelda veteran, this game might not hit your highest expectations, but you'll still have fun with it.    … Expand
  36. bellonman
    Jun 1, 2017
    8
    The most unique Legend Of Zelda game I've ever played. This game has a surprisingly good story for a series that can sometimes feel a little predictable. The gameplay was expanded upon and can be very rewarding. Where the game gets a little iffy for me is with the lack of dungeons, by the end of the game it feels a little rushed. It seems to me like the creators chose to remove someThe most unique Legend Of Zelda game I've ever played. This game has a surprisingly good story for a series that can sometimes feel a little predictable. The gameplay was expanded upon and can be very rewarding. Where the game gets a little iffy for me is with the lack of dungeons, by the end of the game it feels a little rushed. It seems to me like the creators chose to remove some dungeons to add a triforce scavenger hunt, which is more annoying than it is fun. Overall, still a great Zelda game.… Expand
  37. NicM
    Sep 3, 2017
    8
    So, I didn't finished the game yet, but I'm going to do a review, anyway. I'll do a more detailed review when I finish it, aight? Also, this review contains mini-spoilers.

    I really liked the presentation of the game more than Ocarina of Time. But's still not great. The graphics are really beautiful, the cartoon style make the game so pretty. I'm not going to give spoilers of the story,    So, I didn't finished the game yet, but I'm going to do a review, anyway. I'll do a more detailed review when I finish it, aight? Also, this review contains mini-spoilers.

    I really liked the presentation of the game more than Ocarina of Time. But's still not great. The graphics are really beautiful, the cartoon style make the game so pretty. I'm not going to give spoilers of the story, but I really liked it. The open world is so good, I really appreciate it, and it is really good to travel through the sea. It can also be scary , if you don't like the sea like me. The combat is great, it isn't annoying, unlike some Zelda games. I don't like how you can't travel faster through the land, but that's fine. The music is great, obviously. The puzzles aren't annoying to complete, unlike Ocarina Of Time, because Zelda have very boring puzzles;but I had fun completing The Wind Waker's puzzles. The game itself is very fun.    … Expand
  38. brendo214
    May 21, 2019
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game has the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. The Link in this game is so adorable and funny (especially with the faces he makes). The game is simply beautiful. But then there are moments like the frustration that is the Wind Temple. And oh my lord, I don't think I've ever gotten more frustrated by a boss in a video game than I did with the abomination that is this game's Ganon fight. But at the end of the day, the highs overshadowed the lows, and I ended up really enjoying this game. And that's what matters.… Expand
  39. Meta1234
    Apr 25, 2018
    8
    The Zelda game returned on the Gamecube console with an original sea concept and nice cartoony graphics.

    Great effort, 2 point deduction due to multiple story reuses.
  40. ktjayhawk77
    Jun 14, 2018
    8
    Great classic Zelda game-great gameplay and tight controls. I loved pretty much everything about it, but would have given this a 10 if you were required to complete a dungeon to get the third pearl-you are pretty much just given it and it’s not really earned. It just seems the game was rushed a little and they didn’t have time to add that extra dungeon in. The dungeons are cool butGreat classic Zelda game-great gameplay and tight controls. I loved pretty much everything about it, but would have given this a 10 if you were required to complete a dungeon to get the third pearl-you are pretty much just given it and it’s not really earned. It just seems the game was rushed a little and they didn’t have time to add that extra dungeon in. The dungeons are cool but nothing about them really stood out like some in other Zelda titles ie Twilight Princess. The stealth mission in the Forsaken Fortress was kinda annoying as well, but this is coming from someone who doesn’t like stealth based missions. Unlike most, I actually liked the Triforce fetch quest, but I’m into that whole exploring and collecting things in games. Great game, but should have had made a dungeon for the third pearl- that was my biggest gripe with the game. Still, a must-own for any Zelda fanatic!… Expand
  41. 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.
  42. Janek1907
    Dec 22, 2020
    8
    Zelda the Windwaker is a really good game and I definitely had fun with it. But yes, there are some things that aren’t perfect. A think that the game is good, but a bit overrated.

    positives - beautiful art-style - fantastic soundtrack - amazing dungeons - good and fair bosses negatives - story has way more potential than used - Nothing really to explore in the world - control of the    Zelda the Windwaker is a really good game and I definitely had fun with it. But yes, there are some things that aren’t perfect. A think that the game is good, but a bit overrated.

    positives - beautiful art-style
    - fantastic soundtrack
    - amazing dungeons
    - good and fair bosses

    negatives - story has way more potential than used
    - Nothing really to explore in the world
    - control of the character is often very bad

    All together added I think an 8 is the right score for this game. I recommend this game for every Zelda fan and gamers who like big dungeons with lots of secrets. The game is not very hard, so it’s also good for casuals or starters.
    Gamers who like to explore a big world and to follow a story, the game won’t be the perfect game.    … Expand
  43. 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
  44. Jattaman
    Sep 24, 2022
    8
    Bel capitolo di Zelda, con un colorato mondo in cell shading.
    Vario e divertente.
  45. B00tador
    Nov 28, 2021
    8
    After OoT, this is the 2nd best 3D Zelda game for me. Timeless art style, best Ganon
  46. FireBroFilms
    Aug 15, 2022
    8
    ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎
  47. Crimson9
    Dec 12, 2022
    8
    Wind Waker continues the Zelda formula from Ocarina of time, but opens the rather tiny overworld of Ocarina into a massive ocean with lots and lots to explore. Beyond that, there isn't too much innovation to be found here, other than the wonderful art style. But at this point, the Zelda formula had not gotten stale, and I think the new story, the art style, the whimsical atmosphere, theWind Waker continues the Zelda formula from Ocarina of time, but opens the rather tiny overworld of Ocarina into a massive ocean with lots and lots to explore. Beyond that, there isn't too much innovation to be found here, other than the wonderful art style. But at this point, the Zelda formula had not gotten stale, and I think the new story, the art style, the whimsical atmosphere, the wonderful score, the minor enhancements to gameplay, and the huge world are all enough to make this game worthy of high praise. the only major criticism I have is that the dungeons are a step backwards from Ocarina's.… Expand
  48. RefinedInsights
    Aug 16, 2023
    8
    A good Zelda game that has aged well and has better replay value than some of the others. Overall I wasn't a big fan of the cartoony animation. I liked the more realistic, gritty look of Ocarina, Majoras Mask, and Twilight Princess.
  49. Dr.dream
    Jul 28, 2004
    7
    Disapointing.
  50. Puffy
    Nov 10, 2005
    7
    Here's the deal........... nintendo tryed to put the graphics based on a child look cause he is a child thru this adventure.. ii for one dont like the look ..... the game is ok ...... one down fall i found was this game has some ruff camra angles ......there is times ur really fightin the camera to stay in the riht postion .........i can name countless times were the camra woudl beHere's the deal........... nintendo tryed to put the graphics based on a child look cause he is a child thru this adventure.. ii for one dont like the look ..... the game is ok ...... one down fall i found was this game has some ruff camra angles ......there is times ur really fightin the camera to stay in the riht postion .........i can name countless times were the camra woudl be like way opssite of were i need it n the l targting not even no were near helpin....... for that fact not even goin in to postin were u need it ..it coudl use a lil more fine tunning....... one thing for sure about this game its not oot.....its a ok adventure its got good iideas ...... like havin to use a big sword to break the wood or thrown the fire thru the wood or jumpin down pots........its got its bad pints n has its good .....i ve played worse games .....if u can look past the look u may ienjoy parts of it........ this is one them games were its not for evreryone .... i suggest rentin it or playin at a frinends or borrowin it ...its not the worst game ever made.... in all honstey u have to give nintendo credit for tryin somethin new ..i think i would have gave this game a 8 if i weent for the camra angles at tiimes… Expand
  51. I.Lynch
    Mar 25, 2006
    7
    I wanted desperatly to reall like this game, but it just doesnt feel right. But nintendo did pull of the cell shading perfectly.
  52. StefanieF.
    Sep 2, 2006
    7
    this game was quite a disappointment. after i went to the two temples, i was like ok now when do i start getting te triforce whatever in the dungeons (assuming it was liek oot) and then all i had to do was sail around? what the hell! seriously, the graphics are cute, the enemies and sounds are even cute, but the dungeons? why werent there more than two dungeons? who decided to make it this game was quite a disappointment. after i went to the two temples, i was like ok now when do i start getting te triforce whatever in the dungeons (assuming it was liek oot) and then all i had to do was sail around? what the hell! seriously, the graphics are cute, the enemies and sounds are even cute, but the dungeons? why werent there more than two dungeons? who decided to make it this small? i do like how you can start aq second quest but that isnt the point. if you are looking for a zelda classic that you can beat in a week or so, then look here.… Expand
  53. WingWong
    Apr 11, 2003
    7
    I think this game is pretty good, but I don't think it should have been a Zelda game. The story's plot is a little disconnected with Zelda herself. The feel of the controls, especially the L targeting and the shielding is awkward (I keep on crawling whenever I try to shield against a guy!) Overall, this game didn't really have the "Zelda" feel to it that I had been hoping I think this game is pretty good, but I don't think it should have been a Zelda game. The story's plot is a little disconnected with Zelda herself. The feel of the controls, especially the L targeting and the shielding is awkward (I keep on crawling whenever I try to shield against a guy!) Overall, this game didn't really have the "Zelda" feel to it that I had been hoping for. Though it was not a Zelda material, it would have been a superior game if it was its own series.… Expand
  54. YourasA.
    Jul 3, 2003
    7
    Oke game.
  55. RobR.
    Apr 20, 2005
    7
    Gorgeous graphics, big cohesive world. But where's the beef? Too much time wasted on the empty ocean and changing wind direciton, not enough game inbetween. There are lots of sidequests to do (a'la Majora's Mask, which is a good thing), but getting anywhere in this game is such a chore, and you frankly don't need the heart pieces anyway. OOT and Majora's Mask were Gorgeous graphics, big cohesive world. But where's the beef? Too much time wasted on the empty ocean and changing wind direciton, not enough game inbetween. There are lots of sidequests to do (a'la Majora's Mask, which is a good thing), but getting anywhere in this game is such a chore, and you frankly don't need the heart pieces anyway. OOT and Majora's Mask were really far bigger games, despite the N64's limitations. They really needed to spend another year adding more dungeons and making some of the islands bigger. The game has hints of brilliance but fell quite a bit short of what it should have, given the capacity of the GameCube.… Expand
  56. 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.
  57. Mike
    Mar 11, 2004
    7
    If you're a real zelda fan the graphics won't matter to you. but there's a little too much sillyness with the looks of the poeple. all in all it pretty much followed the zelda story except with the botan and talking boat.
  58. CodyK.
    Aug 27, 2005
    7
    This is a very cool game. The graphics and animation are great and the story is not that bad, but the major downfall of this game is the pacing. The game lurches in story because of one of the most annoying and time consuming features that the game prides itself on
  59. DaveB.
    Nov 18, 2003
    7
    It's fun, it's a quality game, but it's not just a tad too childish, it's way too childish! I hope that the sequel is similar, but aimed at a broader audience.
  60. Tokyochuchu
    Apr 7, 2012
    7
    Wind Waker is a pretty much a perfect game that suddenly and unexpectedly shoots itself in the foot. The graphical style is a love-it-or-hate-it type of affair. I really fell on the former side of that argument. I think the visuals are super-cute, colorful and expressive. The general gameplay and dungeons are superb, bringing out all the best traits of the Zelda franchise: Tight controls,Wind Waker is a pretty much a perfect game that suddenly and unexpectedly shoots itself in the foot. The graphical style is a love-it-or-hate-it type of affair. I really fell on the former side of that argument. I think the visuals are super-cute, colorful and expressive. The general gameplay and dungeons are superb, bringing out all the best traits of the Zelda franchise: Tight controls, imaginative puzzle, spectacular bosses... Just perfect! Then... BANG!! You're sent off on a seemingly endless fetch-quest across the ocean, finding shards of the tri-force that have been hidden around the world. No more dungeons or bosses. Just you, your boat and a map. I know that actually sounds like fun, but it's really not. It's just busy work you have to suffer through to reach the finale. BUT ... When you finally do emerge from all that crap, you'll find that the end sequences and final boss of the game are truly unforgettable. So, just about worth holding out for.… Expand
  61. DrEggman
    Nov 16, 2011
    7
    The wind waker has a great storyline and fairly good character development. The sword fighting aspect is better than in any zelda so far and the new parry attack is a welcome addition to links move set. What is a let-down with this game is that part of the game was rushed to get it out for the fans. Instead of having two extra dungeons a tedious fetch quest which lasts for several hoursThe wind waker has a great storyline and fairly good character development. The sword fighting aspect is better than in any zelda so far and the new parry attack is a welcome addition to links move set. What is a let-down with this game is that part of the game was rushed to get it out for the fans. Instead of having two extra dungeons a tedious fetch quest which lasts for several hours was implemented, and quite frankly along with the tedious sailing around it spoiled the game. I had no fun playing it and it is the part I dread when I go to relay the game. The final boss was also a joke, he was far too easy and after being built up to be an uber powerful villain he ended up being a pushover. I also find that this game is not for a mainstream audience. The childish cartoony look is not only lacking detail (at some points the villains abnormally large nose is invisible) but does not appeal to the masses and I find it to be the least visually appealing in any 3d console zelda title. I will say that the dungeon music is bland, but the rest of the soundtrack is very good even if it is Midi. All in all worth a buy if you are a fan of Zelda, just not what I would say best represents the series.… Expand
  62. RangerGxi
    May 21, 2012
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great character development, Very enjoyable but standard plot and Excellent soundtrack The quirky and silly nature of link is enjoyable but the boat rides were simply boring. Maybe I'm blinded by Nostalgia but the Ocarina of Time horse rides didn't feel this boring. My guess is the lack of naval combat in the game. The "Temples" were fun for the most part and employed classic's like the hookshot but also added new mechanics like the flying leaf. It's a must buy for young children who enjoy puzzle games, which I would think is a niche market.… Expand
  63. hawaiianhappy
    Nov 15, 2012
    7
    To be fair, I played through the game multiple times and finished the game twice. There are no flaws with the game that include gameplay, glitches, or anything bad. But there is one thing that has completely killed the mood of the game. It is the reason why my friends who borrow the game from me never finished it. The problem is the part where you are collecting the Triforce Shards.To be fair, I played through the game multiple times and finished the game twice. There are no flaws with the game that include gameplay, glitches, or anything bad. But there is one thing that has completely killed the mood of the game. It is the reason why my friends who borrow the game from me never finished it. The problem is the part where you are collecting the Triforce Shards. The task requires collecting about 3200 ruppies, 21 joy pendants, and collecting the triforce charts, decoding them with said ruppies, and then going out and fetching them. It took me forever to find out how to get into the Oasis for the last triforce chart. I can't believe I am saying this but at least in OOT Navi would give you a hint on where to go, sure she yells HEY way too much but at least she probably could have told me to go to outset island to start. This whole sequence with the shards ruin the experience and slows the game down, and it's very unfortunate because before this you were in 3 dungeons that reveal a lot and get you immersed in the game, but then this whole triforce shard part shows up and it's a complete buzzkill.… Expand
  64. Shigeru
    Sep 7, 2013
    7
    It brought an easy to control camera, fluent animation and a feeling of continuity to the franchise. The game feels rushed during the second half of the plot, though, and spending so much time just getting from one island to another gets tedious pretty soon.
  65. Shireke
    Dec 9, 2015
    7
    A great game for its time, maybe even the best game of that decade. Ocarina of the Time set a "before" and an "after" for 3d videogames, and its gameplay has remained in every adventure game after it.

    But right now, it is only the oldest 3D Zelda game out there, and it shows. The gameplay gets clunky and the story and characters can't compete with newer games on the saga.
  66. Steeldude
    Oct 13, 2014
    7
    Easy bosses, very few dungeons and an unimaginative world with islands that serve little purpose. My least favorite 3D Zelda game. If all islands were expanded upon and contained interesting and unique locations, the score would be much higher.
  67. PersianReviewer
    Mar 30, 2015
    7
    Wind Waker is another favorable entry into the Zelda franchise. For me, I wasn't a big fan of the graphics. Looks like this type of graphics were you like it, or you don't. This was only part of the problem I had with this particular game. The story for me was too short, and it lacked that vast open world exploring which I expected so much from Wind Waker. The temples weren't thatWind Waker is another favorable entry into the Zelda franchise. For me, I wasn't a big fan of the graphics. Looks like this type of graphics were you like it, or you don't. This was only part of the problem I had with this particular game. The story for me was too short, and it lacked that vast open world exploring which I expected so much from Wind Waker. The temples weren't that challenging, and some, like the Forbidden Forest and Wind Temple, were very boring and not compelling. The final boss fight with Ganon however was incredible. Having the doomed Hyrule wash away while the Hero of Time fought against evil itself is what made this boss fight one of the best in the franchise. So overall, good game, but not alot of action until the very end. Otherwise, worth the money.… Expand
  68. Otisnemes
    Jun 29, 2018
    7
    The Legend of Zelda: The Wait Waker. Seriously. Everything has an animation or you have to read text everytime you pick an "important" object (even tho you have read it dozens of times).
    Talking about dungeons, there are not that many, and they're not that great either (two of them, where you have company, are very tedious). Bosses, are meh.
    Now talking about the good stuff, I love the    The Legend of Zelda: The Wait Waker. Seriously. Everything has an animation or you have to read text everytime you pick an "important" object (even tho you have read it dozens of times).
    Talking about dungeons, there are not that many, and they're not that great either (two of them, where you have company, are very tedious). Bosses, are meh.

    Now talking about the good stuff, I love the graphics, and music, they fit the game very very well.
    The ocean is kinda cool too, I get it, sometimes you are just sailing a lot of time, but the ocean is a loading zone after all. There are a lot of things to do too, almost every island has it's own puzzle or secondary quest (that you got to remember, no diary or questlog, which is nice).

    Overall, I liked the game, but I was rushing the end just because I was soo bored with it.    … Expand
  69. DJKrimson
    Mar 2, 2021
    7
    I've played pretty much all Zelda games and I gotta say that WW (and PH) isn't that high on my list and I'd say it's just a decent game. The sailing is annoying because it takes so much time to change the wind direction, the exploring isn't rewarding enough and there are too few dungeons.
  70. Cafe_8bits
    Nov 14, 2019
    7
    During my high school years, Wind Waker was my favorite game ever. Sadly, as i play other good adventure games, Wind Waker falls more and more in my personal ranking. Its not a perefect game. Its quite repetitive, and sometimes its level design got annoying... But its still one of the most creative and best Zeldas ive ever played.
    Wind Waker will always have a place in my heart.
  71. GameDemon
    Aug 6, 2003
    6
    game is pretty good overall, but falls short in nearly every area (story, gameplay, etc.)
  72. 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
  73. JackintheBox
    May 11, 2003
    6
    Very disappointing compared to Ocarina of Time. It feels more like a step back for the franchise than a leap forward. I don't like the looks, the animation is glitchy (guards sticking *through* the barrel Link is hiding in, etc.) and it feels as a very empty, sterile world. Fortunately it came with a bonusdisc, and I'm actually playing through Masterquest and enjoying it a whole Very disappointing compared to Ocarina of Time. It feels more like a step back for the franchise than a leap forward. I don't like the looks, the animation is glitchy (guards sticking *through* the barrel Link is hiding in, etc.) and it feels as a very empty, sterile world. Fortunately it came with a bonusdisc, and I'm actually playing through Masterquest and enjoying it a whole lot more than Wind Waker.… Expand
  74. DuncanS.
    Jul 25, 2003
    6
    This is so pathetic compared to the Ocarina of Time!!! I was waiting to be amazed by realistic graphics like i was when Ocarina came out. WHY GO CARTOONY?!?! They used the name to their advantage hoping that it would bring them success. Well what do you know? If this game had been named "The path of Dean: Wind Waker" or something that didnt have the zelda name attached, people wouldnt This is so pathetic compared to the Ocarina of Time!!! I was waiting to be amazed by realistic graphics like i was when Ocarina came out. WHY GO CARTOONY?!?! They used the name to their advantage hoping that it would bring them success. Well what do you know? If this game had been named "The path of Dean: Wind Waker" or something that didnt have the zelda name attached, people wouldnt have liked it as much. As for the plot, the story line is so predictable, that a 6 year old would know how the whole thing goes after 5 min of game time. Game play is the only strong aspect of this game. I like all the cool weapons that you recieve. The sailing annoys me to the point that i want to fast forward my life half an hour to get to the next island!… Expand
  75. SpotR
    Nov 8, 2009
    6
    The game is not that good. It starts out fun and exciting but gets boring really fast. Sailing is a major pain. Changing the wind whenever you want to go a different direction gets old really fast. Also, you cant enjoy the dungeons because for half of them, you have to control another character as well as yourself.
  76. Lev
    Aug 23, 2009
    6
    At first, the new graphical style looked very lively and refreshing, but it gets dull very soon. There aren't much new gameplay elements compared to OoT, and as many others stated before me, the sailing part is very boring, the using the windwaker is boring, the dungeons are that great and well...I think Nintendo should just just stop raping Zelda. OoT was very good for it's own At first, the new graphical style looked very lively and refreshing, but it gets dull very soon. There aren't much new gameplay elements compared to OoT, and as many others stated before me, the sailing part is very boring, the using the windwaker is boring, the dungeons are that great and well...I think Nintendo should just just stop raping Zelda. OoT was very good for it's own time and is still a decent game. But it was enough once. I have to say that I really liked the intro though. The lino-cut ,(or maybe fake lino-cut) stilized images were great.… Expand
  77. ChrisCamp
    Jul 31, 2003
    6
    It's got gorgeous graphics, good controls and good sound. And the new battle features are great too. But I was put off by the fact that the dungeons are so easy to crack. In Ocarina of Time, you would find a new item (such as the hookshot) and return to an old dungeon that you'd already beat and find more treasure using the hookshot. In this one, you can get every treasure in It's got gorgeous graphics, good controls and good sound. And the new battle features are great too. But I was put off by the fact that the dungeons are so easy to crack. In Ocarina of Time, you would find a new item (such as the hookshot) and return to an old dungeon that you'd already beat and find more treasure using the hookshot. In this one, you can get every treasure in the dungeon the first time through. It's a good game but nowhere near as deep and addictive as OOT… Expand
  78. DemonicAngel
    Sep 25, 2004
    6
    As much as I wanted to buy into the hype and love this game, it just failed to pique my interest and ultimately got consigned to the "preowned" section at my local consumer electronics store. The graphics (including art and design) and sound are top-notch. The gameplay was fun for a while, but soon lost its appeal. Controls are about average, and the camera, while not as detestable as As much as I wanted to buy into the hype and love this game, it just failed to pique my interest and ultimately got consigned to the "preowned" section at my local consumer electronics store. The graphics (including art and design) and sound are top-notch. The gameplay was fun for a while, but soon lost its appeal. Controls are about average, and the camera, while not as detestable as that in Super Mario Sunshine, really does not help matters. A rent-first. (And, I might add - Nintendo could do with getting its act together, sharpish. Of the big N's main 3 franchises, only Metroid Prime was any good, and it was third-party developed. Both SMS and Zelda, developed in-house by Nintendo, were seriously underwhelming. Miyamoto-san, take note.)… Expand
  79. MaryK.
    May 17, 2006
    6
    The graphics wern't the best. It was annoying to have to change the wind direction all the time. It was fun exploring. Over all OOT was the best.
  80. ArkonBlade
    Mar 22, 2011
    6
    first off the graphics much like every one where shunning when it was first shown (and rightfully so) are rancid dog crap . i dont know what nintendo was thinking going for this dorky saturday morning cartoon look . that aside you still have the solid zelda gameplay and puzzles . problem is its not near enough its just to short . looking at ocarana of time which was 40-60 hours this gamefirst off the graphics much like every one where shunning when it was first shown (and rightfully so) are rancid dog crap . i dont know what nintendo was thinking going for this dorky saturday morning cartoon look . that aside you still have the solid zelda gameplay and puzzles . problem is its not near enough its just to short . looking at ocarana of time which was 40-60 hours this game is easily beatin in 20 hours and yes thats not doing every thing in the game but a good chunck of it . you could toss in another 10 hours if you do and thats mainly do to all the sailing you will be doing . infact thats what you will be spending about 30% or more of your time doing ... sailing a boat ... it just doesnt have the magic that ocarana of time or prevous zelda games had but is still heald together by its core game play and puzzles . deffinitly not recommended for any one new to the zelda franchise and only the hardcore and i mean the very hardcore and thoose who can get past thoose pissy looking graphics . dont defend them look at twighlight princess .. thats how this game should have looked and it should have had more dungeons and alot less sailing.… Expand
  81. Snescube
    Jan 29, 2014
    6
    I would like say this is my opinion so if this bothers you its not my fault but i thought about half of this game was tedious mainly the triforce shards. If I wanted a collectathon game id play banjo kazooie. which was a great game but the sailing and the collecting is dumb,one last thing making tingle apart of this game was so stupid or is that just my i give this a 6/10
  82. cc742a
    Aug 17, 2014
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Wind waker is a game I see in a bit of an awkward spot. It is never easy to follow up 2 of the best games of all time, and because of that everyone who saw the original trailer was skeptical. Now about 10 years later lets have a look back on this game. Well for one, the graphic still look fine, better than the re release in fact with those awful amounts of bloom. Problems begin with the sailing. I know some people love it, but i just saw it as unbearable, too little stretched over too much. changing the winds was also a tedious process that deserves mentioning. Anyway, the game controls alright in all other aspects, but heres my main gripe. WW represents the fact that the legend of zelda has no idea what to do after being the best game ever. Its like the boston red sox, unable to follow a succesful year and instead just saying hey remember that. I hate how (SPOILER... is the one person who hasent plaid this gone? good) you visit hyrule, because it shows a game that wants to associate with oot. its the 2nd fiddle trying to hand out with first chair, following him around taking notes. Mabey the one other "problem" ww fixed was it gave link a personality, but why does he need that? He was fine as a blank hero forced into a role, there was no problem with that. In every zelda game the enemies had been more interesting than the hero, and theres no problem with that. Finaly, lets discuss gameplay. Its zelda, it hasent changed. its good, reliable, but my problem with windwaker it lacks variety. MM added the masks and an interesting attack pattern, oot set the foundation. ww goes back to square one on this. dungeon design is interesting, but without any great items (besides the deku leaf) it lacks a fun way to explore. So all in all, i cant say ww was bad, but it refused to be the leap loz needed to stay with the times. It almost represents nintendo entirely, saying hey remember when we made (every nintendo series ever) lets make it again. sequels are only good if they add somthing nintendo. all in all ww needed to do more, but was never bad to play, just boring… Expand
  83. Shadow1
    May 27, 2016
    6
    I don't like The Legend of Zelda . This is one of the worst Nintendo Franchise . Best The Legend of Zelda Game is The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess . Wind Waker is normal, but isn't one of the best games on Gamecube . I think best games on Gamecube is Metroid Prime, Resident Evil 4, Sonic Adventure DX, Sonic Adventure 2 Battle, Shadow The Hedgehog and not much The Legend of Zelda withI don't like The Legend of Zelda . This is one of the worst Nintendo Franchise . Best The Legend of Zelda Game is The Legend of Zelda Twilight Princess . Wind Waker is normal, but isn't one of the best games on Gamecube . I think best games on Gamecube is Metroid Prime, Resident Evil 4, Sonic Adventure DX, Sonic Adventure 2 Battle, Shadow The Hedgehog and not much The Legend of Zelda with Paper Mario The Thousand-year door . Wind Waker is children part of The Legend of Zelda . Graphics in this game is normal for 2003, there are worse and in The Legend of Zelda not bad gameplay .… Expand
  84. gareththestuff
    Apr 26, 2021
    6
    I really wanted to like this. Majoras Mask and Ocarina of Time are my favorite games of all time. I can't like this. Too easy, not enough dungeons, expolaration is half baked, and, most of all, its not the best. I'm sorry Wind Waker.
  85. SoulSuckingCat
    Jun 29, 2022
    6
    There is a popular saying that this game's art style has aged well. Sure I will give it that, but that does not mean it is any less appealing that when it was released. With a weak story and excessive amount of sailing that becomes a slog to get through even late in the game. There are some unique weapons in the game, but otherwise it is your standard Zelda fair. Unfortunately due to someThere is a popular saying that this game's art style has aged well. Sure I will give it that, but that does not mean it is any less appealing that when it was released. With a weak story and excessive amount of sailing that becomes a slog to get through even late in the game. There are some unique weapons in the game, but otherwise it is your standard Zelda fair. Unfortunately due to some aspects of the game the replay value is very low. If you have not played it before it is worth a play through, otherwise your mileage may vary.… Expand
  86. VLG
    Aug 23, 2023
    6
    A good adventure game, kind of original, but pretty much shallow and boring.
  87. 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
  88. TedL.
    May 31, 2003
    5
    This is a highly overrated game. The graphics are fine. Very cartoony, but the story was ridiculous, unless you're 7 or younger. I felt like the second half of the game wasn't even there, the game actually became easier as I played through it. I've never played a game like that before. Nintendo rushed this game out, so if you have to play windwaker play it for about an hour This is a highly overrated game. The graphics are fine. Very cartoony, but the story was ridiculous, unless you're 7 or younger. I felt like the second half of the game wasn't even there, the game actually became easier as I played through it. I've never played a game like that before. Nintendo rushed this game out, so if you have to play windwaker play it for about an hour and then give it to your kid brother.… Expand
  89. MichelleL.
    Oct 14, 2006
    5
    I love Zelda and bought a GC just to play Zelda on, however I was disappointed in this game. I hated how you had to sail everywhere, it took forever and even when you warped to places, having to change the wind direction and such, was a pain. There were not enough dungeons and the graphics were so cartoony and cheesey, not what I was used to with the N64 Zelda games. All in all, I played I love Zelda and bought a GC just to play Zelda on, however I was disappointed in this game. I hated how you had to sail everywhere, it took forever and even when you warped to places, having to change the wind direction and such, was a pain. There were not enough dungeons and the graphics were so cartoony and cheesey, not what I was used to with the N64 Zelda games. All in all, I played it because it was Zelda. Took me almost 2 years to finish because I disliked it so much. The only reason I did finish the game was because I have beaten all other Zelda games and wanted to keep my record.… Expand
  90. A.W.
    Nov 4, 2003
    5
    Pretty average. Ok, the dungeons were quite good and even though i'm against the cel-shading graphics, they are very good, but it's too short, the sailing and wind changing is one of the most tedious things i've ever done and, because of all the islands and finding maps etc., i could not be bothered doing all the side quests and mini games. 'nuff said.
  91. Gareth
    Nov 4, 2005
    5
    Not the worst game ever as someone said here but its easliy the worst Zelda since the 2D one years back. The game itself is about 5 hours long with the rest of the time spent sailing aimlessly. Decent graphics and a cool black and white level and pirate hideout level cant compensate for lack of gameplay, lack of imagination and poor level design. Free with my copy came a bonus disc of Not the worst game ever as someone said here but its easliy the worst Zelda since the 2D one years back. The game itself is about 5 hours long with the rest of the time spent sailing aimlessly. Decent graphics and a cool black and white level and pirate hideout level cant compensate for lack of gameplay, lack of imagination and poor level design. Free with my copy came a bonus disc of Ocarena of time...which, well, is far far better and is a great reason to buy this if they still come packaged together. Other wise, dont bother, wait till the new one gets here or...i dunno...buy a playstation...… Expand
  92. DanB.
    Nov 15, 2006
    5
    REPETITIVE. Having to fight the same bosses at the end that you already beat earlier in the game felt like they were artificially inflating the length of the game. Sailing was BORING and took forever. Having to watch the same 15 second animation over and over again when you changed wind direction was annoying. By the end of the game, I just didnt care anymore if I finished it or not.
  93. GamingLlama
    Sep 22, 2007
    5
    I actually found the sailing quite fun. I liked discovering new islands and such which weren't on the map. I also enjoyed using Link's sword and the variety of combo attacks. The windwaker gets less lame once you learn how to do more than just control wind with it. The plot line is good--a boy from a small island village who goes off to rescue his kidnapped sister and ends up in I actually found the sailing quite fun. I liked discovering new islands and such which weren't on the map. I also enjoyed using Link's sword and the variety of combo attacks. The windwaker gets less lame once you learn how to do more than just control wind with it. The plot line is good--a boy from a small island village who goes off to rescue his kidnapped sister and ends up in an epic quest to fight the darkness of evil. There were a couple things about this game that frustrated me, however. One is the limit to rupies and such, and having to find faeries to increase your capacity. The only reason why I was able to find 90% of the faeries I did manage to find was because I accidently ran into them by sailing. And I haven't found all of them yet. Another was when Link has to swing across ropes on the pirate ship to get the bombs. No enemies here, just moving ropes. It's way too boring and pointless to be the main part of the plot that it is. It'd be better off as a mini game. Then you can't even fight for the majority of the first dungeon. Just sneak past the guards and avoid the rabid animals. It's fun for the first couple hours, but then constantly getting lost in an endless maze in which you can't even take out your frustration on passing enemies is not fun at all. I had to rely on a walkthrough for this level, which completely defeats the whole point of actually playing the game. Which brings me to my last point. The dungeons are extremely large and complicated, but they're basically empty. The few monsters that do pop up are so wimpy, it makes Link seem like some cold hearted bully. As the game goes on monsters become more numerous and difficult, but they still aren't enough for the complexity of the dungeons.… Expand
  94. LinkFan
    Aug 6, 2003
    4
    The gameplay is simplistic and easy. The story is poor and contradicts itself and the other Zelda games, it seems to be written by someone who read up on Zelda for 2 minutes before making the story, the graphics are horrible. It's not just the graphics, this game SUCKS. maybe a 5 year old would like it.
  95. 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.
  96. MichaelB.
    Jul 9, 2005
    4
    While the story of this game shows promise, there are simply too many problems to be captivated. Control issues due to overly-context-sensitive buttons inhibit play and in some cases completely frustrate any logical problem-solving nature of the game. The cel-shading engine is mediocre at best, and is a large departure from Nintendo's While the story of this game shows promise, there are simply too many problems to be captivated. Control issues due to overly-context-sensitive buttons inhibit play and in some cases completely frustrate any logical problem-solving nature of the game. The cel-shading engine is mediocre at best, and is a large departure from Nintendo's "not-pushing-the-envelope-but-perfect-for-the-game" reputation. The lack of a dedicated jump button and difficulties in both camera and targeting seriously diminish the fun of this game. If you can look past the camera, graphics, and controls, this is a fun platformer-rpg. But that's a mighty big if.… Expand
  97. Jason
    Jul 11, 2003
    4
    Didnt really appeal to me at all in the way previous ones have. the plot was typical, and the movie sequences and the ending was very childish. I didn't think it was all that difficult like previous ones we're. My suggestion is if your looking for a game that has a more grown up feel look elseware. That E for everyone all ages is exactly what it stands for...
  98. JaiDave
    Dec 3, 2003
    4
    [***SPOILER***] This game was a big disappointment to me. I am a very big Zelda fan from way back and have closely followed the story from nearly of all the games until now. The graphics were terrible considering they were planning to originally make the game with graphics like "Ocarina of Time". Instead, they decided to make the game very cartoonish and child-like, which is reflected in[***SPOILER***] This game was a big disappointment to me. I am a very big Zelda fan from way back and have closely followed the story from nearly of all the games until now. The graphics were terrible considering they were planning to originally make the game with graphics like "Ocarina of Time". Instead, they decided to make the game very cartoonish and child-like, which is reflected in the graphics of the game. Imagine how great it would be if they actually made the game with Gamecube graphics similar to the "Ocarina of Time". If you want a comparison, just look for "Zelda 128" and compare the graphics in the demo with the actually graphics of the finished product. Very disappointing indeed. Secondly, the plot of the game was horrific and seemed highly unrealistic and nearly impossible. I mean come on, do you really believe that Link would not show up to challenge Gannon? Of course Link would show up! Even at the very end of the game, the story does not make any sense. GAME ENDING SPOILER: Why would the King of Hyrule want to wish that his kingdom remain at the bottom of the ocean? He got to the Triforce first, and he could have wished for anything in the universe, but no, he had to wish for hyrule to remain submerged under the ocean instead of wishing for Gannon to be destroyed and Hyrule to live on forever. He could even wish for Gannon to be sealed away with a special power emitted from seven magical objects and then have them scattered all around the world so that Nintendo could make another game. END OF SPOILER: Third, the gameplay was VERY monotonous. Having to hit your weapon's teacher 500 times with your sword to gain a measly Heart Piece is not my idea of a fun time. If that wasn't bad enough, you have to put up with the countless hours sailing around the world, because 99% of the world is water and the other 1% is composed of scattered islands on the world map. Fourth, the music was mediocre. There was little variety in the various musical themes of the game. There wasn't the same amount of emotional intensity in the music as there was in previous games like "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" or "The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past". Lastly, the fun factor of the game dropped like a lead weight in water compared to the previous Zelda games. It was a refreshing relief when I played "A Link to the Past" after this game because "A Link to the Past" was so much more fun than this poorly made game. And this game became Game of the Year? Something is definitely not right here. If you are a true Zelda fan and have been playing Zelda games for as long as I have, you will feel cheated after you purchase this game. I feel like I have just spent $50 for nothing. Shiguru Miamoto definitely needs to wake up and see what has become of one of the best video game characters of all time (the best is Chrono from "Chrono Trigger") and make serious ammends for this awful game before this gamer will touch another Zelda game.… Expand
  99. 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.
  100. Sweatymother
    May 9, 2021
    4
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Okay. So, you might be here, looking for another gem to adorn your Gamecube console with. And from all the 9's and 10's you have been scrolling past, you may be expecting the creme of crop, the pinnacle of the Legend of Zelda series. I would recommend going into the game blind, but it's too late for that now. Your expectations could not be higher right now, and that's a bad thing. This game has a big nostalgia factor and if you are under the age of ten, it may become your favorite game. But for me that is not the case.  I got into Zelda games as an adult so I have zero nostalgia for the series. If you are already an avid Zelda fanatic then you are going to buy the game anyway. If you're not, save you're money. A get Luigi's Mansion or Paper Mario: The The Thousand Year Door. Those games are worth your time If you are a Mario fan. Anyway, anything past this sentence will be spoiler material so proceed with caution. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker [WW], is an average adventure game. You got the vague evil forces, the kidnapped relatives, the dungeons, the bosses, the final boss, then happily ever after. The first part of the game follows the classic Zelda formula: collect three mystical gems then get the master sword. For that it what it is, it's okay. It stays true to the formula. The complaints I have for this section of the game are that the game actively discourages you from straying off the beaten path. It may seem like a nit pick, but it's Zelda. These games expect you to discover essential plot points out of natural curiosity. And if you don't explore, the game doesn't tell you what you need to do in order to advance. For example: there is a point in the game you find a rather large island called the Mother and Child Isle's. The island is shaped like the top of a dormant volcano. The problem is that the volcano walls completely surround the interior area that you want to explore with no apparent way to get in. So, like any fan of Zelda games, I assumed I was missing the item necessary to gain access. As it turns out, you need to WARP to that island to get inside. This would be fine, of course, if the game gave you a hint at what you need to do. I made sure to talk to every npc I ran across and every fish in the ocean so I would be well prepared for the adventure. But I came across this by blind luck. The Mother and Child isle happened to be the close to my destination so I warped there. If I wasn't lucky I would've been very frustrated. Keep in mind this isn't a minor issue. You HAVE to do this in order to advance at all. The other complaint I have for this early section of the game, is that the dungeons are really easy the are only 2 of them. 2 dungeons for three mystical objects. I was glad I didn't have to do another throwaway dungeon but that's just lazy game design. Other than that the game has been tolerable up until this point. Alright, now you have finally got the master sword it's time to dungeon crawl until you fight Ganon. No more f***ing around. At least that's what you would expect. It is Zelda after all. Don't you think this would be the best part of the game? The buildup to the climactic clash with Ganon? Right? Well f*** you and your high hopes! You do 1 more decent dungeon and 1 crappy one. Both tedious as all he'll. Remember the water temple from the n64 OOT? Well it's that bad. You have to play the same, insanely tedious song every 20 seconds. I'm not even exaggerating. And if you have poor rhythm, you are f***ed. Oh yeah I didn't mention you have to not only play the notes in order, but in time too. The dungeons aren't even the worst part. Buts it's the lack of them. You can't model a game after oot and only include 4 dungeons. Next is the infamous triforce shard quest. Here's how I remember it. You need to find 8 triforce shards. First you have to find a treasure map called Tingle's chart (which you won't have if you followed the in game prompts). Tingle's chart shows you where to find these other maps called the triforce charts. Sounds simple enough. The only thing is, you CANT READ THE THE TRIFORCE CHARTS!!! You have to take them to a specific location and get them deciphered. Whatever I guess I'll go get them deciphered. The only thing is. It costs 398 rupees for EACH TRIFORCE CHART to be deciphered. And rupees aren't super abundant unless you know where to look. It was around this time I called it off. I deleted my save file and watched the final events of the game play out on YouTube to satisfy any lingering curiosity I had for the end of the game. I focused mainly on the bad things about the game but there are good things to say. Gameplay is pretty solid. Camera control is nice. The music is great. It just just doesn't have that usual Nintendo polish. It feels like it was developed by a third party. If you want to experience to game. Watch a playthrough on YouTube. It will save you time and frustration. Thanks for reading and I hope you can find a better game to play :)… Expand
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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

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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]
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  3. Eurogamer
    100
    Simply a stunning, magical game.
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