The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD

 Switch
User Score
7.3

Mixed or average reviews- based on 700 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 467 out of 700
  2. Mixed: 104 out of 700
  3. Negative: 129 out of 700
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  1. Cream147
    Jul 17, 2021
    9
    10 years ago The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword released to typical critical acclaim from the media, but an unusually mixed fan reaction for the series - and it has been the fan reception that has stuck with this game in the years since. That was mostly fair, there were definitely a number of issues with this game such as a very prolonged intro, no option to not use motion controls, a10 years ago The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword released to typical critical acclaim from the media, but an unusually mixed fan reaction for the series - and it has been the fan reception that has stuck with this game in the years since. That was mostly fair, there were definitely a number of issues with this game such as a very prolonged intro, no option to not use motion controls, a broadly empty sky world which seemed like it could have been so much more, and a particular annoying repeated boss, to name a few. Furthermore, the game was unusually linear for a Zelda game, with very little focus on exploration and more on environmental puzzle solving for progression, with the surface world areas essentially playing like dungeons in themselves. This felt like the opposite of what the fanbase wanted at that time - a large-scale exploration-based game with less of an emphasis on motion controls, as the craze about these had died down. Skyward Sword seemed like a dated game on release, rather than a groundbreaking game in one of their most beloved series.

    One important thing has happened in the Zelda series since Skyward Sword, and that is of course the release of Breath of the Wild, the Zelda game of many's dreams. With this game, pushing firmly opposite to the direction proposed by Skyward Sword, the future of the Zelda series as an open-world adventure rooted in exploration seems secured.

    And so we come to Skyward Sword HD. With this game clearly not indicating the direction of the series, we can perhaps view this game in its own right. The critical praise of Skyward Sword did not come from nowhere - there was always a lot right with this game:

    - The dungeon design was the best in the series, with some interesting ideas such as a dungeon which you largely traverse on a large boulder floating through lava, and general novel puzzle solving.
    - The dungeon design was helped by an interesting set of items including the return of some classics (e.g. bombs, bow and arrow etc.) and some new ones (e.g. a mechanical beetle that you obtain early on). Included are some new ways to use familiar items, such as the ability to roll bombs like a bowling ball, which add a few fresh puzzle and combat ideas.
    - Surface world level design, while linear, keeps focused and you are not running through large areas of empty space often.
    - The addition of a stamina wheel allowing you to run faster and climb higher objects than in previous games.
    - The ability to upgrade many of the items you obtain throughout the game giving the game more of an RPG-lite flavour than some previous Zelda games.
    - Fun sidequests up in the sky area give you some downtime can break up the more linear, focused action on the surface world.
    - A story that, while not fantastic, has its moments and is a suitable beginning to the Zelda timeline

    And then the HD version has made several key improvements, some of which directly address issues with the game:
    - It looks visually pleasing. They haven't done much modelling work so the geometry is jagged but the increased resolution and the more defined textures do wonders, and the geometry isn't particularly jarring in the surreal painterly style of Skyward Sword.
    - 60 FPS. People's mileage seems to vary on this, but for me 60 FPS is world's better than 30 and to see Skyward Sword as the first ever 3D Zelda game officially running at this framerate is a big deal for me and dramatically improves the experience.
    - The addition of button controls. These are unintuitive at times as ultimately the game was designed to be played with motion controls, but they do the job and provide an option for those who are not interested in motion controls (or want to play handheld, another feature this port naturally adds)
    - Several quality of life additions, such as faster text skipping, cutscene skipping, less interruptions from your partner, auto-saving and so on. These serve to greatly increase the pace of gameplay, if you're keen to progress quickly the game is going to stop your flow a lot less now.

    Some of the issues of the game are more inherent and have not been addressed, but by improving the overall QoL they are less problematic than remembered. Furthermore, in a world where now we are saturated with open world games, the old-school linear action-adventure gameplay may be refreshing (if it's to your taste), as they really do not make games like this anymore.

    The way I see this remake, I think this is a second chance for Skyward Sword. Selected improvements have been made to the experience to enhance it, motion controls are no longer mandatory, and perhaps most importantly, we have the context that the more ground-breaking experience of Breath of the Wild 2 is on its way. With that said, this may be an opportunity to enjoy Skyward Sword for what it is, rather than for what it is not. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with it, and if you have the right expectations, there's a good chance you can too.    … Expand
  2. Reed618
    Jul 17, 2021
    10
    Unfortunately ports are a target for review bombing so the user score probably won't be that reliable as people who haven't played the game will just give it a 0.

    I'm a few hours in and really enjoying the game though. The art style really holds up and this is such a great version of Zelda (the character I mean). I love her design and she's quite funny. The quality of life features make    Unfortunately ports are a target for review bombing so the user score probably won't be that reliable as people who haven't played the game will just give it a 0.

    I'm a few hours in and really enjoying the game though. The art style really holds up and this is such a great version of Zelda (the character I mean). I love her design and she's quite funny. The quality of life features make the experience noticeably better.

    I also really appreciate that I can use a gamepad. Joycon drift is a big headache so I just couldn't handle playing with joycons.

    Having tried the original version on wii just a few months ago I can definitely say this is hands down the best version of the game. Better control options, less annoying tutorials/pop up messages, visually it's far nicer (the old wii version looks awful on modern tvs), autosaves, camera controls etc. It really is a massive improvement.

    Is it better than breath of the wild? personally not at all. botw has a lot more to offer but skyward sword is full of charm and it's a fun adventure. I'd definitely recommend it.    … Expand
  3. NoUsernameYet
    Jul 17, 2021
    10
    A wonderful game, which is undoubtedly one of the best in the saga, having the best story,the best soundtrack, impressive dungeons, bosses and others that make this game very special. A version that corrects a large part of the errors of the past and offers luxuries to the most complaining or picky eaters, already full HD AND 60 PFS, and yes, I said in full HD haters;), without a doubt oneA wonderful game, which is undoubtedly one of the best in the saga, having the best story,the best soundtrack, impressive dungeons, bosses and others that make this game very special. A version that corrects a large part of the errors of the past and offers luxuries to the most complaining or picky eaters, already full HD AND 60 PFS, and yes, I said in full HD haters;), without a doubt one of the best Zelda, and an excellent way to relive this title in HD and 60 FPS.

    PS: Beautiful Zelink, the best.    … Expand
  4. GreenMenace
    Jul 19, 2021
    10
    Skyward Sword [SS] isn’t a game for everyone. With that out of the way, let me tell you why SS is my favorite Zelda game from my favorite franchise.

    First I’ll acknowledge its flaws. You can read other reviews and get a very solid understanding of those so I won’t waste your time. Most of them are correct. I would add that I would have liked more monster variety as well as more things    Skyward Sword [SS] isn’t a game for everyone. With that out of the way, let me tell you why SS is my favorite Zelda game from my favorite franchise.

    First I’ll acknowledge its flaws. You can read other reviews and get a very solid understanding of those so I won’t waste your time. Most of them are correct. I would add that I would have liked more monster variety as well as more things to do in the sky as the sky and its islands feel relatively empty.

    I loved Skyward Sword because of its story. It doesn’t do anything extraordinary, but it attempts to develop characters and introduce plot twists. In my opinion, any Zelda game without Ganon as its main enemy already deserves some attention. The characters are as goofy in this installment as other Zelda games. This game also stands out from the rest because it started to break away from the old Zelda formula that had been established.

    And while mandatory motion controls were/are unpopular, SS is the only Zelda that features them, creating an experience you can’t get with any other Zelda. The game was my first Zelda experience that had a hard mode. Two of the dungeons in the game are in my top three dungeons list (and I’ve played most Zelda games out there since A Link to the Past). Finally, I’d argue that the ending of the game was as epic as Zelda gets. This is a fantastic game that’s only getting better with the remaster. Not only that, but the game will also somehow be connected the next game in the series I’m super excited for—BOTW 2.

    SS was my favorite game on the Wii. On the switch I’m roughly 18 hours in. The game looks more crisp, it runs smoothly, and it’s now portable. The button controls work well, but they take away from the immersion factor that the game aimed for. The motion controls work, but because joy cons are uncomfortable for me to hold, I find myself using button controls most of the time. I’d recommend switching to motion controls for big events in the game like bosses.

    The game feels a lot faster paced since a lot of the wordiness can now be rushed or even skipped entirely at times. And the free roaming camera adds a lot to the experience as well.

    In conclusion, if you’re on the fence about considering giving SS a shot, I’ll wrap up with these thoughts. SS is a differently paced game from most Zelda games. Since it is a little slower with compact environments, it’s not a game for everyone. It places a different emphasis than BOTW. It doesn’t offer much to players who want to explore, but it offers an immersion factor, great dungeons, and good music. The story of SS is more important than any other mainline Zelda game. While marketing has focused on comparing the game to BOTW, I think it’s much more comparable to Twilight Princess. SS may not have aged as well as other remastered Zeldas, but it’s still a fantastic game and was a no brainer preorder for me.    … Expand
  5. mrwho995
    May 30, 2023
    9
    Although this game doesn't improve much from the original, the original is so good that it didn't really need to.. The most impactful change is that Fi is less annoyingly intrusive. The free camera is also very welcome, as well as fixing an annoying bug.

    Skyward Sword was great when it came out and is still great now. In many ways, it is the pinnacle of Zelda: the best dungeons in the    Although this game doesn't improve much from the original, the original is so good that it didn't really need to.. The most impactful change is that Fi is less annoyingly intrusive. The free camera is also very welcome, as well as fixing an annoying bug.

    Skyward Sword was great when it came out and is still great now. In many ways, it is the pinnacle of Zelda: the best dungeons in the series, the best story in the series, the best music in the series, some of the best setpieces in the series, some of the best characters in the series. What it does, it does exceptionally.

    The game also introduces a lot of innovations to the franchise that Breath of the Wild would then expand upon; this was at the time the most extensive arsenal of collectible items in Zelda, and Breath of the Wild expanded on this but arguably actually did it worse; same for Tears of the Kingdom.

    However, it is also a game with very large flaws. There is very little exploration in this game, and very little room for player freedom. The game can be far too hand-holding at times, and can be repetitive and feel padded at points.

    This game is the polar opposite of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom; what those games to the best, this game does badly, and vice-versa. It just so happens that the things I care about the most: dungeons; a grand contemporaneous story; great music; a sense of progression throughout the game; and the feeling of going on a meticulously hand-crafted adventure, are what this game excels at.    … Expand
  6. rafaaguilera
    Aug 18, 2021
    8
    While I was amazed by Breath of the Wild open world scope, a more story driven and linear old fashion Zelda experience is still enjoyable as well and I think switch between both styles is a nice thing to preventing them getting old.

    I had a good time playing Skyward Sword. Dungeon design is excellent; visuals while definitely old generation, holds well due to art style; and the motion    While I was amazed by Breath of the Wild open world scope, a more story driven and linear old fashion Zelda experience is still enjoyable as well and I think switch between both styles is a nice thing to preventing them getting old.

    I had a good time playing Skyward Sword. Dungeon design is excellent; visuals while definitely old generation, holds well due to art style; and the motion controls add interesting gameplay possibilities, even if gets irritating when your movement doesn't translate well to the game.

    I think this remaster could've came up at least with a significant visual uptade, but as I said before, the art style holds well and don't hurt the eyes.

    Along the minor but welcomed modifications done in this HD version, I highlight the fact they shut the mouth of this nosy partner called Fi a little. Now is up to you to listen to her tips or advices, she doesn't intrude anymore if she's not called. Believe me, you'll be grateful for this. Motion less controls are also available as well, but given how the game was build, motion is still the best way to play it for the most part. I said most part, because flying on the bird and diving with button controls is the way to go (its possible to switch controls by going to the menu)

    However, even enjoying my playthrough with Skyward Sword, I must say this is not quite there among the most memorable and unforgettable Zelda games. The environments, characters and overall feel are not quite as charming or charismatic like the Wind Waker or Majora's mask. But what really really annoys me the most is that due to the lack of explorable areas (just 3), the game keeps recycling them sometimes proposing annoying tasks and challenges that felt blatantly tacked on to make it last longer, like: fight the same boss 3 times; backtrack to an already explored dungeon to get an item; collect redundant stuff and on. It's not fun! Felt like work and also hurt the overall pace. It takes about 30 hours to reach the end and it didn't feel necessary to be this long. If an 4th explorable area wasn't possible to avoid filler quests, I think cut the game shorter would be a better decision.    … Expand
  7. Drash-Digimon
    May 18, 2023
    10
    Top notch in terms of adventures and dungeons.
    It was the best story Zelda there ever was, and nothing like it will ever be seen.
  8. Bnois
    Aug 18, 2021
    7
    It's an old school Zelda like any other (but with pretty interesting and engaging motion controls). If your first Zelda game was BOTW, you might not want to get this one. And it's understandable. It's outdated, a few improvements here and there, and not justified 60$ price tag.
    The models, animations and overall feeling is a little bit generic. You can check on youtube how FI sings or    It's an old school Zelda like any other (but with pretty interesting and engaging motion controls). If your first Zelda game was BOTW, you might not want to get this one. And it's understandable. It's outdated, a few improvements here and there, and not justified 60$ price tag.
    The models, animations and overall feeling is a little bit generic. You can check on youtube how FI sings or Link plays on his harp. It's rough and definitely is not on Nintendo quality level.    … Expand
  9. Ninbreasy
    Jul 20, 2021
    9
    This remaster is at least a solid 80 out of 100 and has improved in every way on the original game, which was already quite good. Now: 1080p, 60fps, faster loading times, better motion controls, optional joystick controls, faster text, free camera controls, you can skip scenes, Fi is much less annoying, less annoying item info, auto-save, selectable save files and a lot of minor things!This remaster is at least a solid 80 out of 100 and has improved in every way on the original game, which was already quite good. Now: 1080p, 60fps, faster loading times, better motion controls, optional joystick controls, faster text, free camera controls, you can skip scenes, Fi is much less annoying, less annoying item info, auto-save, selectable save files and a lot of minor things!
    Back in the day these issues were the main quality of life complains of many people, which shows that Nintendo listened to his fans and tried to fix the game.

    Of course Skyward Sword (HD) is not perfect at all and has still its annoying flaws.

    It is a pity that there are so many people in this review section rating this game just for its price. If you think 60 bucks is overpriced and Nintendo should be ashamed of it.... you're probably damn right!
    (Ah, and if your joy-con is drifting than fix it! It is actually pretty easy.)

    But these things have nothing to do with the content of this game. Please go ahead and hate Nintendo for the price and the joy-con drift but not the game.    … Expand
  10. revadb
    Jul 26, 2021
    10
    A great game in 2011, still a great game 10 years later.
    The QoL improvements really expedite the slower parts of the game experience, and replayability is much simpler with the ability to skip cutscenes. The visual really stand out in 1080p, 60fps.
    Finally, this game is always worth it just for having the best story in the series!
  11. preppyak
    Aug 7, 2021
    7
    One of the things this game cant ultimately overcome is its reliance on motion controls for much of the game play. I actually think the structure of the game is well done overall, but having played Breath of the Wild, its very clear that it was the update the game needed to stay relevant for years to come. Skyward Sword closes its world by relying far too much on slash angle (andOne of the things this game cant ultimately overcome is its reliance on motion controls for much of the game play. I actually think the structure of the game is well done overall, but having played Breath of the Wild, its very clear that it was the update the game needed to stay relevant for years to come. Skyward Sword closes its world by relying far too much on slash angle (and timing...which it often fails to relay effectively), whereas other Wii games thrived on using motion controls to open up their game play. And Skyward Sword often leans into its campy/childish side in a way that neither Twilight Princess or BotW do.

    As an update over the 2011 version, its mostly a success by sidelining the games worst elements. But graphically, its far behind games that released 5+ years ago (thinking of the Uncharted Series and Horizon Zero Dawn specifically). Asking for the full $60 price at release is certainly a joke in comparison...as a $29.99 title it might have actually been a really smart bridge until the newest title in the series.    … Expand
  12. WWD2
    Sep 29, 2021
    8
    At its core, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is a great game. Everything you’ve ever loved about a Zelda Game is here: compelling storyline, great character development, well-designed game mechanics, all of that. But Holy Mother of Mayonnaise, this game has absolutely NO business being on the Nintendo Switch. It’s no secret that the Joycon motion controls completely blow. But this isAt its core, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is a great game. Everything you’ve ever loved about a Zelda Game is here: compelling storyline, great character development, well-designed game mechanics, all of that. But Holy Mother of Mayonnaise, this game has absolutely NO business being on the Nintendo Switch. It’s no secret that the Joycon motion controls completely blow. But this is a motion control heavy game, particularly in terms of attacking with specific motions. The game is far from unplayable, but I’d say to expect the Joycon to read your motions correctly just south of 60% of the time when attacking. Also, when using equipment which requires you to aim, or even when looking around in first-person mode, keep your thumb on the Y button, because you’re going to have to readjust the gyroscope just about every time. Overall, this is a great game and deserves the accolades it has received, but if you can play it on the Wii, do yourself a favor and play it there first. Otherwise you might risk having a sour taste in your mouth about a brilliantly designed game.… Expand
  13. bingobengo
    Jul 17, 2021
    9
    They fixed the most hand-holding dialogue and infuriating motion controls, delivering an undeniably amazing puzzle action game with some of the best music in the business.
  14. Mr_fettuccinee
    Jul 18, 2021
    8
    Great game, not without problems, memorable soundtracks, reminds me of many childhood moments, a little too pricey for a remaster but in the end I was happy to pay for the overall experience, you constantly have to reset the motion controls but the fact that you can do in any moment just by pressing the Y button makes it less annoying than I wold expect and Fi is still the most annoyingGreat game, not without problems, memorable soundtracks, reminds me of many childhood moments, a little too pricey for a remaster but in the end I was happy to pay for the overall experience, you constantly have to reset the motion controls but the fact that you can do in any moment just by pressing the Y button makes it less annoying than I wold expect and Fi is still the most annoying companion that you could ever immagine only second to Navi even if they tried to cut many unnecessary dialogues but in the end I’m glad that Nintendo waned to give a new life to the less liked of the 3D Zeldas, it’s also a great way for people new to the Zelda brand to discover the franchise and try something other than breath of the wild. So you should definitely give it a chance.… Expand
  15. brendanbarrett
    Jul 20, 2021
    9
    Excellent remake. The button controls become more intuitive after about 5 hours. The frame rate is steadily 60 FPS. More importantly, the game is just great.
  16. JoeyPL5
    Nov 16, 2021
    8
    It's sad how a really charming game with a beautiful soundtrack, incredibly memorable story moments, and unbelievable dungeons had to drag on so long with actual tedious garbage that made me feel like Nintendo doesn't respect my time.
  17. JohnnyPS5
    Jul 18, 2021
    9
    I love this game. I loved it 10 years ago, and still love it now. That being said, is it worth the $60. YES! I played the Wii version last year and I’ve watched side by side comparisons and it looks better in handheld than the Wii… and absolutely phenomenal while docked. It’s amazing the polish they put into it. The bad reviews are ridiculous. 1.don’t rate a game poorly because of anI love this game. I loved it 10 years ago, and still love it now. That being said, is it worth the $60. YES! I played the Wii version last year and I’ve watched side by side comparisons and it looks better in handheld than the Wii… and absolutely phenomenal while docked. It’s amazing the polish they put into it. The bad reviews are ridiculous. 1.don’t rate a game poorly because of an amiibo
    2. Don’t rate a game poorly because your joycons drift
    3. Don’t be that curmudgeon

    Honest negatives. 1. It’s the same game. If you hated it then, you’re gonna hate it now. 2. The start is tedious. It’s almost 2 hours to get to the first dungeon and every time it starts to go, you’ll get pulled back into an explanation, story, or tutorial. 3. The controls are WAY better but still clunky and going to be divisive. This game has a great story and is an important part in the evolution of the legend of Zelda series. There are moments in this game that are just breathtaking and it sucks that the controls and the slow start of the game keep people from loving this game like I do. Anything above a 70 rating is fair. Anything below is petty and misdirected displeasure at joy cons, amiibos, and Nintendo.    … Expand
  18. Zephyrion
    Jul 17, 2021
    10
    For me who never played the wii version this game is fantastic. Love the story gameplay is okey and the music wow
  19. Kakadu
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    Absolutely fantastic. Controlls are more accurate than in the original and it looks and runs way better. Qol improvements make the game alot more fun. Fi isn't annoying anymore.
  20. nahobino5_
    Aug 4, 2021
    3
    It doesn’t play as smoothly as I’d wish it too. Everything feels very slow and dragged out. And of course, $60 for a barely enhanced HD port is steep. I’m really against the expensive and limited amiibo blocking fast travel as well. It’s just incredibly unhandy.
  21. profittsc
    Jul 25, 2021
    1
    The controls are awful in this game and make it a literal chore to play. Everything revolves around gimmick motion controls that in 2021 just don't hold up. The game is just almost unplayable, for example you have to run around with the L trigger held down just to be able to navigate the camera. Also the sword controls are terrible and just not fun at all, everything depends on you movingThe controls are awful in this game and make it a literal chore to play. Everything revolves around gimmick motion controls that in 2021 just don't hold up. The game is just almost unplayable, for example you have to run around with the L trigger held down just to be able to navigate the camera. Also the sword controls are terrible and just not fun at all, everything depends on you moving your sword in a certain way. Like diagonal up left or diagonal up right or diagonal down left or right or straight up or straight down. It gets really old, really fast !! I am not a Nintendo hater, I loved BOTW and many of the Mario games. Skyward Sword though just does not work at all, maybe if it was $15 dollars in a bargain bin but not a $60 stand alone game.… Expand
  22. fattythehutt
    Jul 17, 2021
    5
    If you have any drift at all in your right Joy-Con do not play this. If you play without motion controls sword attacks are mapped to the right thumb stick.
  23. Ryzar
    Jul 20, 2021
    6
    As a preface, I've only played up to the second dungeon using the pro controller. In my opinion, the motion controls of Link's sword don't map well onto the analog stick and holding L+ right analog stick to move the camera doesn't feel very intuitive. Nintendo should have removed every component of Skyward Sword which was reliant on motion controls and remade the game catering aAs a preface, I've only played up to the second dungeon using the pro controller. In my opinion, the motion controls of Link's sword don't map well onto the analog stick and holding L+ right analog stick to move the camera doesn't feel very intuitive. Nintendo should have removed every component of Skyward Sword which was reliant on motion controls and remade the game catering a traditional button controller. In its current state, I wouldn't recommend it - not at full price anyway. Having said that, I love the story-driven, dungeon aspect of this game and one can only hope Nintendo strikes the right balance in the next iteration of the Zelda series. Hopefully, breath of the wild 2 will embrace its roots once again and combine it with the "open-air" vibe that a lot of people seem to like.… Expand
  24. MAM10
    Jul 19, 2021
    10
    one of the best zelda games it holds a special spot among zelda games. The game is fun with fantastic story and awesome music.
    with improved motion control and much better graphics now it deserves a 10.
  25. agramonte
    Jul 25, 2021
    6
    There is just no way around it. The controls are awful. You would think that coming from Nintendo there would be a better solution than this. The flying, fighting, exploring... nothing feels natural.

    You stick with it and fumble along with the controls (well, mostly because it is a “Zelda” game), just to realize that the games has you backtracking and padding even the most trivial    There is just no way around it. The controls are awful. You would think that coming from Nintendo there would be a better solution than this. The flying, fighting, exploring... nothing feels natural.

    You stick with it and fumble along with the controls (well, mostly because it is a “Zelda” game), just to realize that the games has you backtracking and padding even the most trivial things... suffocating what fun you had managed to pull out of it a few moments before - basically insult to injury.

    I also find it crazy that one of the few quality of life update is locked behind a $25 Amiibo. For a game with no new content, barely a visual upgrade and a full $60 price tag - placing it as an extra DLC is just greedy. No idea how Nintendo is getting a pass on this,

    It is ok to skip this Zelda.... Again.    … Expand
  26. AndyCoaster
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    Really enjoying this great experience for the third time. It's something about the dungeons and the weapons, and the new controls works surprisingly well. in my honest opinion, better than Breath of the Wild!
  27. NorwayGamer
    Sep 7, 2021
    8
    I really wanted to play this game with a "normal" control scheme, even though I really liked playing it with motion controls on the Wii, and finished it 3 times.

    But unfortunately, using the right control stick to swing Link's sword feels really awkward to me, so I was quite disappointed. Thankfully, using motion controls still feels responsive so i just stuck with that when playing    I really wanted to play this game with a "normal" control scheme, even though I really liked playing it with motion controls on the Wii, and finished it 3 times.

    But unfortunately, using the right control stick to swing Link's sword feels really awkward to me, so I was quite disappointed.
    Thankfully, using motion controls still feels responsive so i just stuck with that when playing this version as well.
    I feel this is a very underappreciated game in the franchise, it is actually quite good Imo. Definitely not the best in the series, but there's plenty of fun to be had.

    There are some small improvements in the game besides the resolution & framerate bump - like being able to skip cut-scenes, skip FI's annyong interruptions etc. Those probably won't convince you to like the game any more if you didn't already, but for someone like me, it's great.

    I gave it a 9/10 on the Wii, but I feel the improvements aren't significant enough to varrant a score higher than 8/10 for Switch, as there's no graphical improvements other than resolution - no improved textures, lighting & effects etc. And the new control scheme leaves a lot to be desired Imo.

    A really fun game overall, but this version could be much better if Nintendo for once was willing to put in the actual effort.    … Expand
  28. DPV07
    Jul 20, 2021
    9
    I'm a huge fan of Zelda games, and I know when to notice their flaws, and I'm critic about them when they really hurt my experience without nitpicking like most of these HATERS out here and out there on the internet.

    I never owned or played the original Wii version of Skyward Sword, but now that I finally played it and beaten it today, I can't understand the freaking hate this game    I'm a huge fan of Zelda games, and I know when to notice their flaws, and I'm critic about them when they really hurt my experience without nitpicking like most of these HATERS out here and out there on the internet.

    I never owned or played the original Wii version of Skyward Sword, but now that I finally played it and beaten it today, I can't understand the freaking hate this game gets, specially if this version has fixed things that made people mad such as Fi. I liked Fi, I like the gameplay, music is GREAT as to be expected… Skyward Sword does some things better than the rest of 3D Zelda games (before Breath of the Wild came out), just like other 3D Zelda games do some things better than the others. That's how it has ALWAYS been.

    Skyward sword is MILES from being a BAD game. I will say that right now. I don't hate Twilight Princess, in fact it's one of my personal favorites, but that game is heavily flawed, even more flawed than Skyward Sword is, which I can say now, now that I have finally played it ( it was the last 3D zelda game I had left to play yet ).

    No Zelda game is perfect, and even despite the personal flaws I found myself with this game, I only had a few things that I didn't like about it:
    • Lack of region / zones variety: you only have 3 regions and the sky. The sky only has one big town, which is Skyloft, and very few NPC islands with barely much to do with them. In a way, it's as barren as Wind Waker's great sea was. BUT I WILL DEFINITELY SAY… that the sky in Skyward Sword, is waaay more fun to play around with than the sea from Wind Waker, which was slow and boring after a few hours of playing it. With Skyward Sword, at least the sky is fast to travel for most of your missions and more entertaining and dynamic with the Loftwing ( your bird mount friend ).

    The surface's regions, Eldin, Faron and Lanayru, are only populated by monsters you kill, and the good people in them are about one race at most per region. It makes sense because this is the first game in the timeilne after all, but you would think there would be at least one city or town for each race. You see a few gorons but there isn't a town for them? Like what the hell…

    But again, this was never gonna change in an HD port, so this is just basic complaints that I'm sure I was always gonna have with Skyward Sword.

    This HD port definitely fixes things that I noticed from the original game, and I'm glad my first experience was with these fixes they made.

    As someone whose favorite gaming series in life is Zelda, I easily consider Skyward sword among my top 5 favorite 3D Zelda games. As someone who loves the series, I know what I want from it, I don't just eat whatever they put in my plate that easily, but thankfully none of the 3D Zelda games has left me with a bad taste, like EVER.

    Skyward Sword HD definitely left me with a smile now that I played the first game in the Zelda timeline, the gameplay was fun and I was never bored swinging the sword and using the games' dungeon items, etc.

    This game OOZES with personality ( unlike Twilight princess where almost every character are dead inside and lack personality for the most part… and I say this as someone who still loved that game very much ) and the story is definitely worth playing the game alone as it is.

    If you are a Zelda fan who just wants a neat adventure with great story and fun characters, Skyward Sword should make you happy. The gameplay won't disappoint, sure you will find the lack of region / biomes variety a bit "mehh…" at some points, but most of times you revisit these few areas you are always finding something new to do in them anyway, so it's NOT the end of the world, specially if you liked Wind Waker, then there is no reason why you wouldn't be able to enjoy this game as well.

    Give the game a try, don't nitpick to oblivion, just enjoy the game for what it is and has to offer.

    If the price annoys you so much then have fun playing the outdated version on emulator, or have fun giving your money away to scalpers for the wii version of the game. Hell, I don't understand why you would even want to play a version of the game that has no fixes to the things you will complain EXTRA about (like Fi being annoying), nor be able to play the game on 60fps even. For me, this HD port was totally worth its price. As a Zelda fan, I wouldn't stop myself from experiencing this fun game just because it could be 10$ or 20$ cheaper in some people's minds. If you don't like the price, speak with your wallets, Nintendo is not gonna stop pricing their games for 59.99 just because you won't stop whining about it. It hasn't changed in all these years, it won't change later, speak with your wallet and be quiet about the whole price nonsense, it's TIRING to read.    … Expand
  29. Mrman23
    Jul 20, 2021
    9
    It honestly pains me to see so many people complain and cry about the motion controls still, the motion controls simply put has a 90% probability of being accurate with every swing of the joycon you make. I feel as if most people in sword combat swing the WRONG way, simply explaind people have a tendency (like my friend) to swing left in order to swing a broader right swing! This mistakeIt honestly pains me to see so many people complain and cry about the motion controls still, the motion controls simply put has a 90% probability of being accurate with every swing of the joycon you make. I feel as if most people in sword combat swing the WRONG way, simply explaind people have a tendency (like my friend) to swing left in order to swing a broader right swing! This mistake makes you swing left first making you stagger and do wrong in the game. A simple not so hard fix is to flick from the middle aka holding the joycon straight and flicking left for left and right for right. If you manage to do what I've said and still fail then you're honestly just horrible at direction, because after this rocket-science of a fix (apparently) its just impossible not to make the right swing 90% of the time! I absolutely adored this game playing it in 60fps with a 1080p resolution while engaging in interactive gamplay in which doing a parry with a shield feels so good! The dungeons are great and the music is phenomenal while it's really underrated for stupid and wrong reasons. Some people have complained that aiming in the game can be a hassle since you need to reset the gyro from time to time, but honestly how hard can it be if all you need to do is press "Y" A single time?… Expand
  30. Arkz
    Aug 6, 2021
    6
    There's some great moments, some cool story elements and mysteries, interesting areas to explore and some fun and interesting dungeons, even if it all does look very dated.

    It basically looks like a Wii game just running in 1080p cause, well it pretty much is. No anti aliasing so jaggies everywhere, Nintendo seem to be allergic to any picture processing that cleans up stuff like that.    There's some great moments, some cool story elements and mysteries, interesting areas to explore and some fun and interesting dungeons, even if it all does look very dated.

    It basically looks like a Wii game just running in 1080p cause, well it pretty much is. No anti aliasing so jaggies everywhere, Nintendo seem to be allergic to any picture processing that cleans up stuff like that. 60fps is nice but lets face it, all fast paced games should be 60fps minimum, and the only reason this is, is because it's an old Wii game, and the Wii it's self was just a faster Gamecube probably only as powerful as the original Xbox. So yeah it looks... old.

    But graphics don't make the game, gameplay does. and it struggles here too. The original motion controlled mess was very annoying in places but you can now play with motion controls off all together. With the sword direction stuff mapped to the right stick. It's less tedious but still is rather bothersome. And the adapted controls aren't the games main issue. You could get around that and get used to it over time, tedious as it may be.

    The main issue is the pacing. It feels like a 15 hour game stretched out to 30-40 hours. It's painfully boringly slow in places. And while there's some fun areas to explore and dungeons, there's equal amount of monotonous areas and boring dungeons that feel like a chore to get through. The silent realm challenges are interesting but it has you do them 4 times and again feels like a buffer to make the game last. So often you need to keep going back to old areas and mess about. When it leads to somewhere new, good, but a lot is just going over stuff again.

    There are times when you think we're finally getting on with stuff and they throw more and more pointless hurdles at you to slow the game down. And as much fun as you can have, you are forced through boring bits that just aren't fun. I would have been ok with a shorter game if it meant keeping it going and not feeling like "oh here we go again".

    Story is decent but you're getting it in such small snippets then being padded out by the boring bits.

    There are some fun dungeons with cool and interesting mechanics like the timestones. But other ones where it just feels like you're doing it cause you have to to proceed.

    There's fun items like the clawshot and beetle. And boring stuff like the whip.

    Travelling across the sky is very slow. and unlike Wind Waker where the ocean was massive but there were absolutely loads of islands to find with cool secrets, this feels baron. What you do find is mostly empty, but they've put goddess cubes on the surface that unlock chests in the sky to give a reason to visit them. A few have interesting methods of getting to the chests but most are land, open, leave.

    If you're a Zelda fan you may still enjoy it but end up stopping at some point and never going back. And if you're not a Zelda fan you may get bored early on and just tire of it. I still find older ones like Ocarina of Time and Wind Waker to be a lot more fun and rewarding, with better music and more atmosphere and character too.

    In the end I'd say watch a video review going over some of the game to see if it actually looks like your cup of tea. There are some fun bits and interesting story developments, if you can handle the slow progression. Otherwise go play something else. Ocarina of Time for the story or Breath of the Wild for the exploration.    … Expand
  31. triple_co
    Aug 29, 2021
    8
    I played the original version of Skyward Sword on the Wii in 2011 and I can say with certainty that this new, updated port is the superior experience.

    With a button control scheme that offers more precise and fluid sword swinging and item switching, as well as a crisp, smooth 60 fps HD display, this pre-cursor to BOTW is now more enjoyable and balanced than ever. You can skip cutscenes,    I played the original version of Skyward Sword on the Wii in 2011 and I can say with certainty that this new, updated port is the superior experience.

    With a button control scheme that offers more precise and fluid sword swinging and item switching, as well as a crisp, smooth 60 fps HD display, this pre-cursor to BOTW is now more enjoyable and balanced than ever. You can skip cutscenes, flick through speech quicker than before, and reduce the frequency with which Fi interrupts you.

    It's worth a note, however, that this title isn't for everyone, especially if you've not dived into Zelda's back catalogue beyond the last entry. The level design is particularly linear and on-rails, with emphasis mostly on brain-teaser puzzles and unique fighting encounters. You won't have a large, open world to explore every nook and cranny of, aside from some small rock formations that are dotted about Skyloft.

    The scattered level design with multiple short loading windows whenever you travel between environments will get tedious toward the end too, and the mechanics to craft and upgrade your gear are a little redundant when they're never truly needed to progress. Some of the ideas presented here were clearly translated into BOTW in more meaningful and objectively better ways, but it's interesting as a Nintendo fan to see them first implemented here.

    Where the game does succeed is in its character arcs and immersive setting. You'll feel compelled to finish the title just to see where it all ends up - and the final bosses are a stylish marvel for hardware that is fifteen years old. Combat is fun and unique, with the new button controls removing the frustration of unreliable motion gimmicks once you get the hang of it.

    And while you can't run about freely in a massive environment, Skyward Sword still encourages you to dive deeper into its NPC questlines, hidden secrets in the form of Goddess Cubes and Gratitude Crystals, and its bug catching mechanics.

    You can purchase items and medals to help improve your odds of success and there are many Skyloft residents who offer small quests to give you a nice break from the intense main story. Overall, this remains one of my favourite Zelda titles, despite its wearied design and controversy within the fanbase.

    It is well worth a play - though I do wish Nintendo had lowered the price to around £35.    … Expand
  32. Lordbread
    Oct 2, 2021
    6
    It’s a good game but it gets really repetitive after a while it doesn’t really add anything to the original skyward sword other than the ability to use button controls. It is pretty much just skyward sword ported to the switch.
  33. mr-ruukasu
    Dec 5, 2021
    6
    Nice beginning, then after completing all dungeons you backtrack to them again and again, story drags for too long, you doing the same things, but in different places. Flying mechanic could be used more, not just for going from place to place. There is no real challenge, bosses are easy and other enemies non-existent. Some puzzles are nice, some just over complicated. Controls are ok, butNice beginning, then after completing all dungeons you backtrack to them again and again, story drags for too long, you doing the same things, but in different places. Flying mechanic could be used more, not just for going from place to place. There is no real challenge, bosses are easy and other enemies non-existent. Some puzzles are nice, some just over complicated. Controls are ok, but not great (played on lite). Music is great, like in every Zelda game. Overall you can skip this one and just watch youtube movie to know the story.… Expand
  34. Kadaz
    Mar 29, 2022
    6
    Controls are so bad that I can't really enjoy the game at all. Haven't finished it yet and I come and go mostly , but for a Zelda game not being able to have me interested to at least finish the story is something.
  35. ThatCat54
    May 24, 2022
    5
    The original is awful, and the remaster made some good changes:

    - newer slightly better controls - Fi is a bit less annoying - 1080p But it honestly didn't fix the many problems with this game: - incredibly linear, the world design is claustrophobic and this game is way to linear - even the button controls are still bad - So much filler, you have to revisit each    The original is awful, and the remaster made some good changes:

    - newer slightly better controls

    - Fi is a bit less annoying

    - 1080p

    But it honestly didn't fix the many problems with this game:

    - incredibly linear, the world design is claustrophobic and this game is way to linear

    - even the button controls are still bad

    - So much filler, you have to revisit each location 3 times, defeat this one stupid boss 3 times, and there's so much filler content to pad out your playtime

    The only things I liked were the dungeons and some of the bosses, but you have to slog through terrible gameplay to get to them. Music is pretty good though.    … Expand
  36. rexicola
    May 1, 2023
    1
    really a bad playability, it's sad because the story, the character and the level design are good but why on earth do i need to switch between camera mode and sword mode? it's just not funny, play it 2 hours and gave it up as i know that i still need to play this way to end the game
  37. ItsTamo
    Aug 18, 2021
    8
    I'm not a hater nor a lover of this game. I don't mind motion controls. I'm somewhere in the middle and I like it for what it is and dislike it for what it is not. I played through the original game about 5 times (I played OoT like 30 times, so yeah.) so I guess I'm more toward the lover side. I played all mainline Zeldas and I think I'm quite objective in my opinions, lol.

    I was quite    I'm not a hater nor a lover of this game. I don't mind motion controls. I'm somewhere in the middle and I like it for what it is and dislike it for what it is not. I played through the original game about 5 times (I played OoT like 30 times, so yeah.) so I guess I'm more toward the lover side. I played all mainline Zeldas and I think I'm quite objective in my opinions, lol.

    I was quite a bit disappointed that there was no additional content to this remaster. The Hyrule Encyclopedia states that the devs were originally planning a 'Second quest' for Zelda and Impa, but had to cut it, only to include the cutscene in credits. I thought the Second Quest would feel perfect for the HD remaster but did not happen. I can't stop comparing this remaster to the Xenoblade Chronicles DE and Super Mario 3D World, since both of the remasters had 5+ hrs of all-new contents included. I don't understand why the Zelda devs didn't bother to put that much effort into this remaster.

    Aside from the Additional contents complaint,

    Pros:
    - Fabulous story and strong characters. Groose has one of the strongest character arches in any Zelda game.
    - Strong dungeon design. The Ancient Cistern is almost like a storybook and has its own story. Most of them requires you to understand the 3D layout and are not overly linear. The Sandship initially forces the player to the deepest part of the dungeon, while showing all the doors and branches that you can access later on. This is just a great dungeon design. I think SS is the second strongest game in terms of dungeon designs, next to MM.
    - Geographic design is great. Utilizing each of the provinces in a new way every time the player re-visits them. I really don't mind the tedtones. It's fascinating to see how the familiar maps change for the Silent realm sequences.
    - Addition of the button control was great, especially for some minigames that require precise controls. I played the HD version on motion because of muscle memories, but I thought buttons were great.
    - Halleluja, Phi's dialogues are gone. The game felt a lot speedier and more fluid than the original. Overall cut in diologues and tutorials were nice. I think this would be the biggest reason for the players to choose the HD over the original.

    Cons:
    - The hub world is really tedious, the worst in all Zelda games. They should've added a new quest to give the Loftwing some extra speed boost, just like how they did in WW HD. They should've added extra islands with more collectibles to give the players incentives for exploring. They didn't add anything. The Sky is a blatant ripoff of the Great Sea, but the Great Sea is actually fun and this is not.
    - The collectibles are the worst in the entire Zelda series. I hate the medal and pouch system and hoped the remaster fixed it. They didn't. They have 2 heart medals in place of 8 heart pieces. This game only has 24 heart pieces. OoT had 36. The game starts you off with 6 hearts instead of the usual 3. That's just lazy game design. You can get two of the same medals like the rupee medals, and this is because the devs did not want to develop new items. No permanent upgrade to the consumable items. Gratitude crystals are way too easy to gather and the quest itself is fairly short. I'm surprised that they fixed none of this. Someone should tell the devs that the collectibles in this game are downright terrible.
    - Some parts of the original game felt rushed and incomplete, like the empty caverns in Eldin province that serve no purpose, or the absence of any roles of the Eldin dragon. These have not been fixed in the rerelease.
    - The motion controls were okay, but they drift quite badly. They are a lot more responsive than the Wii counterpart but far less accurate. Not joycon drifts but gyro drifts. Any battle that required you to use the Skyward attack was quite painful, far more than the original.
    - The graphics were not as impressive as when I first played the first and haven't aged well. Very blocky. Soft, glittering aesthetics of the original release is not as prominent in the HD release.
    - Amiibo functionality is stupid. They should be criticized heavily on this. They should've let us scan all zelda amiibo and let us gain a ladybug or amber or something.
    - Why no warp??? They should've at least made warp from bird statue-to-bird statue within the same province possible. This is the only 3D Zelda with no warp system. If I land on a wrong bird statue, I need to fly back up and make a huge turn and see the cut scene again. That's annoying.

    I enjoyed it, it's a good game. Took 30 hrs to 100% the HD version.
    The complaints I have are all from the original game design. I do think Skyward Sword HD is a better game than Skyward Sword and the devs listened, but it feels like they missed some opportunities to fix the problems the original had. The original game had a lot of problems even excluding the motion control finesse.    … Expand
  38. Rebtain
    May 20, 2023
    10
    Pocos Zeldas hay tan brillantes como este. Sigue la estela de anteriores títulos a la perfección, e implementa uno de los mejores sistemas de combate y resolución de puzzles basados en movimiento e imput del control.
    El juego peca de ser más largo de lo necesario, en especial en su tramo final, pero tener una gran historia lo compensa satisfactoriamente.
  39. MacieRu
    Apr 22, 2023
    8
    The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD is a pretty good remastered of the original Wii game.
    Fun and intuitive dungeons, nice tools and the graphics are clean.
    it gives an amazing mood and the side quests also are fun to play. but there is a big con, the motion controls. for those that plays the game in portability mode the sword controls might be annoying beacuse you have to use the R    The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD is a pretty good remastered of the original Wii game.
    Fun and intuitive dungeons, nice tools and the graphics are clean.
    it gives an amazing mood and the side quests also are fun to play.
    but there is a big con, the motion controls.
    for those that plays the game in portability mode the sword controls might be annoying beacuse you have to use the R stick to manage it.
    Despite of this thing i think that this game is worth 40 euros
    it's still a zelda game :D    … Expand
  40. azathoth_91
    Apr 24, 2023
    9
    Quick rewire: Not the best Zelda, but a very quality 11 year old game that still plays great at 2023
  41. MisterWizard
    Jul 20, 2023
    8
    This is a really fun game! Before I say more, I played it without motion control. I loved that you had to use the joystick, it felt so fresh and different from other games. The music and story are also fire. Wish it had a bit more freedom, sometimes, but other than that, this game is pretty underrated, and you should give it a shot if you're into this.
  42. xrenderman
    Jul 23, 2021
    2
    One of the worst "AAA" games I ever played. First of all, it's super annoying. Repetitive animations, tedious time filters like super slaw climbing. Unskippable dialogs and cut scenes. This bird that you need to fly for 5 minutes to and from the island every time to "fast" travel. Motion controls just don't work properly. New button controls are also not at all comfortable. Every time youOne of the worst "AAA" games I ever played. First of all, it's super annoying. Repetitive animations, tedious time filters like super slaw climbing. Unskippable dialogs and cut scenes. This bird that you need to fly for 5 minutes to and from the island every time to "fast" travel. Motion controls just don't work properly. New button controls are also not at all comfortable. Every time you pick something up - again, same long unskippable animation. I could overcome all of this if the gameplay was good. But no. Combat is the pain in the ass because of motion. Puzzles are so primitive that doesn't require any brain activity. Visually it looks just awful. HD in a name is a joke. Everything is blurry and most of the time it's not a texture but just one color fill of a huge surface. The only good thing about this game is the music.… Expand
  43. evilmidget
    Aug 1, 2021
    1
    Well I can definitely see why this is the least favourite in the series. Horrible control scheme. I can forgive it for the most part, but when the boss fights require precision, it is so frustrating. Not to mention if you use an item during a boss battle and then die, you lose the item for your retry.
  44. Davesreview83
    Jul 24, 2021
    0
    Shamless cash grab that's over priced because Nintendo knows your going to buy the game
  45. deplorable
    Jul 22, 2021
    4
    I'm not sure what nintendo were thinking. Take the worst Zelda 3D game we've ever made and re release it on the switch. I mean the HD graphics... do... nothing. I mean there's only a little difference to what we saw almost a decade ago. I feel sorry for Zelda, HD does not work well on her model.. looks like Ashlee Simpson before the nose job.

    Don't worry they improved the controls...    I'm not sure what nintendo were thinking. Take the worst Zelda 3D game we've ever made and re release it on the switch. I mean the HD graphics... do... nothing. I mean there's only a little difference to what we saw almost a decade ago. I feel sorry for Zelda, HD does not work well on her model.. looks like Ashlee Simpson before the nose job.

    Don't worry they improved the controls... no. no they didn't. I don't know how they managed it but they made the controls worse. I guess if you want to play with the joycons you can go with the terrible game design of waving your hands around like you're a legend in LARP but, that's just bad game design.

    If you want to play it with a controller, first of all the Right stick is not your camera, no because the right stick controls the sword (badly). If you want to use the camera, you gotta hold down another button and use the right stick, but careful in battle because the right stick is also your sword. Do you see the problem.. that's just the beginning.

    This should have stayed in the archives. They've managed to make a mediocre zelda game worse. Give us wind waker... please. maybe i'll forgive.

    Hell i couldn't even bring myself to even buy this game this time, i rented it from boomerang. There's no way i was paying nintendo for a decade old game that i remembered being terrible at the time. And i was half right, i didn't exactly expect them to make it worse. I mean that takes skill and talent.

    Maybe we are spoiled in how good BoW is... and how great it is. But i can play OoT on my DS as a remake, handles and plays fine. I can dust off my gamecube and play wind waker... brilliant zelda game along with twilight princess.

    I put this into my switch, and i just want to play any other game... hell i'd play jon trons bootleg games instead. Nintendo wanted a pay day with this, and they probably got it. But for the future of gaming, it's just another step backwards....

    I'm not sure whose rating this a 10 though, i mean rose tinted glasses are one thing - completely deluded is another. I hope they get the help they desperately need. You rate a game what it is... you don't look at the average and go "bump it up". That's not how it works, a game should stand on its own two feet...    … Expand
  46. PanteraHouse
    Jul 23, 2021
    0
    Full price Wii game in 2021? This is a joke. How can they justify this 10-11 year old game being the same price that BOTW2 will be. Nintendo continues to lower the bar to see how much they can get away with
  47. Ughduty
    Jul 24, 2021
    4
    Boss battles are a pain in the a.. even after you somewhat got over the bad control scheme. There is nothing that really prepares you for them.
  48. Steyraus
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    A master peice of a game and now even better at 60 FPs and more control options..
  49. Fatluou
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    Incredibly fun game the controls are so much better now and is more fluent than the wii version, the game still looks stunning even after 11 years later, I recommend that you should buy it if you haven't
  50. UmAlguem
    Jul 20, 2021
    10
    Skyward sword is the best zelda game with the link to the past formula and the hd remaster just makes it better
  51. cosuo
    Jul 18, 2021
    9
    In my opinion the HD remaster of Skyward Sword runs flawlessly, the game looks really good, has great soundtrack, also the story is really engaging and overall the game gives great vibes, i never had any problems with motion controls and i have to say they really bring a lot of fun into the game once you get used to them u really can feel like Link. The only downsides for me i can think ofIn my opinion the HD remaster of Skyward Sword runs flawlessly, the game looks really good, has great soundtrack, also the story is really engaging and overall the game gives great vibes, i never had any problems with motion controls and i have to say they really bring a lot of fun into the game once you get used to them u really can feel like Link. The only downsides for me i can think of is the lack of voice acting and the whole sprinting ability doesn't feel great you can't jump or dodge attacks. Nevertheless the game is a great experience for all the gamers and Zelda fans. I think its a great purchase for the Nintendo Switch… Expand
  52. TheOnlineGamer
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    It should be a crime that the Skyrim Zelda Mod that is Breath of the Wild gets to have a **** near perfect score, while Skyward Sword (AN ACTUAL ZELDA GAME) gets rated this lowly...
  53. Zebunker
    Jul 28, 2021
    0
    Watered down port that is essentaily $35 more than when it orginially came out, with the pay 2 win Amiibo you need.
  54. BrushedRed
    Jul 20, 2021
    7
    Whoever said that this is better than Breath of the Wild has lost their mind. Lol. But I will say that I am enjoying this HD remake more than the first time I played this on Wii. It's nice to play the game in 60 FPS and in high quality textures. The art style is quite gorgeous and the game has held up well over time.

    Prior to this HD remake, I never finished my original playthrough of    Whoever said that this is better than Breath of the Wild has lost their mind. Lol. But I will say that I am enjoying this HD remake more than the first time I played this on Wii. It's nice to play the game in 60 FPS and in high quality textures. The art style is quite gorgeous and the game has held up well over time.

    Prior to this HD remake, I never finished my original playthrough of the game. I got several hours into the game, but I did not enjoy the controls and I ultimately traded the game in. I had no desire to really get this again, but I had a ton of store credit and just decided to go for it anyway. I was leery of the motion controls, but they seem to work just fine. I am definitely enjoying the non-motion controls. They seemed like they'd be awkard, but they work pretty well once you get the hang of using them.

    Still, a lot of the glaring flaws the game has are present (and there's not much they could've done to fix them). Like, the silent realm, back tracking, repetitive nature. Those things were part of the original game and they're still here. It's not quite as much of a chore this time around, though, because of the controls. I'm looking forward to finishing the game getting all collectables. That's what I've done on all the Zelda games and I intend to continue the tradition.

    But, yeah, it's obvious to see why Nintendo changed the direction of Zelda after this.    … Expand
  55. truevoid
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    A beautiful game, definitely one deserving a remaster. The art style is so fitting and the story telling is unbelievably good
  56. woolywooly
    Aug 10, 2021
    2
    Terrible terrible controls. If you like games that are fun, then you will hate this. If you get frustrated by games with bad controls, then you will hate this. If you are a casual gamer that simply wants some Zelda fun, then you will hate this game.
    This game was made for the Wii, and the adaption is terrible. This is literally the worse Zelda nintendo ever made.
  57. SuperkenGaming
    Jul 23, 2021
    8
    Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD
    Too much game
    Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword is a 20 hour long action adventure game staring link, and in a way this is a bit of an origin story, timeline wise this is the first Legend of Zelda game to play, Basically you want to be a brave knight, Zelda gets captures, you gotta rescue her and save the world at the same time kinda story, so you hop on your    Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD
    Too much game
    Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword is a 20 hour long action adventure game staring link, and in a way this is a bit of an origin story, timeline wise this is the first Legend of Zelda game to play, Basically you want to be a brave knight, Zelda gets captures, you gotta rescue her and save the world at the same time kinda story, so you hop on your giant bird, and fall down to the land below.. .first impressions, this game is awkwards to play, whether its motion controls, or pro controller, it never.. and I mean never.. feels right to play, youll be slashing and rolling, using objects you unlock as you progress the game, none of it ever feels good.. the camera controls are awkward, and don’t even get me started on the rope swinging… you will be frustrated playing this game for its feel alone… but its that Nintendo magic that kept pulling me through, at least in the first area, the green forests, and the water, hunting down these forest creature, I loved if.. so nostalgic and magic feeling.. and then theres the rest of the game, deserts, factories, and dungeons, boring.. dull… I hate, and I mean hate, the dungeons here in skyward sword, theyre all needlessly convoluted, climbing through room after room, throwing this switch then that switch, so oyu can mov onto the next room to do the same, deal with annoing enemies to get to a new switch to pull, and run back to a previous room to open a door andpull its switch till you pull all of the switches and fights the boss…it all feels just so overwhelming and too much, so you get through all 3 main dungeons and then the game wants you to go back to previous area you’ve already been to, redo dungeons with a twist.. nah.. I hated doing it the first time, oi definitely don’t wanna do it a second time…
    That being said, Skyward Sword does offer a magical world that’s hard to put down, youll want to explore, find its secrets and get to this games amazing conclusion and twist.. but the awardsness f the gameplay mechanics and the constant dungeons make skwayrd sword feel like a chore to get through, this game should’ve been half the length, its too much, its overwhelming and frustrating, and never satisfying to get through, youll never think wow I cant believe I did all of that, youll think wow I hated that and I sure hope there isn’t more of that, but there is, its practically the whole game with only a tiny break and relized magic halfway through once oyu can swim underwater, but then its back to boring annoying dungeons…
    Skyward Sword is a great game, it really is, But theres plenty of fat here that needs trimmed…
    I give Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword HD
    an 8/10    … Expand
  58. Kvr
    Jul 25, 2021
    10
    A great Zelda game! Has everything that a fan of the series will love. Great world, great music, funny npcs, rewarding sidequests, collectables! Amazing dungeons. Really nice story. This Zelda has it all!
  59. martinho_99
    Aug 21, 2021
    7
    My opinion about this game is divided. Motion control is even worse than on the old Wii. But controlling the sword with the curser comes with its own problems. Always holding down L to move the camera is really annoying. Pushing the left cursor in to conter with the shield becomes quite painfull after some time in boss fights since you need to keep holding ZL the same time to focus on yourMy opinion about this game is divided. Motion control is even worse than on the old Wii. But controlling the sword with the curser comes with its own problems. Always holding down L to move the camera is really annoying. Pushing the left cursor in to conter with the shield becomes quite painfull after some time in boss fights since you need to keep holding ZL the same time to focus on your enemy. Was a motion controlled or now cursor controlled sword an original idea? - Yes. Is it practical or fun? - No! Should it be repeated? NO!!! They tried something and it didn't work out, no need to hate on the game - end of the debate. The story is okay I guess, not very original or surprising but Nintendo games are never about the story. Although all those things kept annoying me I liked playing the game. There are dungeons and places with so much originality. And I liked the higher difficulty it offered. All the moments with the master sword are as magical as always. It is no masterpiece, they could have done better but it is a good game and it is worth playing.… Expand
  60. Davidq
    Jul 25, 2021
    6
    I am a huge fan of the saga and this is not a good remastered, they have made big improvements over the original, but for a game revived in 2021 at this price it is not enough. They could further improve the graphics, the camera, the controls (which are really awkward and cumbersome) and add some innovations taking inspiration from Btow, but they didn't do it and this makes me sad ... TheI am a huge fan of the saga and this is not a good remastered, they have made big improvements over the original, but for a game revived in 2021 at this price it is not enough. They could further improve the graphics, the camera, the controls (which are really awkward and cumbersome) and add some innovations taking inspiration from Btow, but they didn't do it and this makes me sad ... The game is not to be rejected, but it certainly does not deserve 8-9. I hope that Nintendo returns to being what it once was, returns to being the Nintedo of Iwata and that you remember that in addition to the money there are also the players who have always loved and supported it.… Expand
  61. ReaperOfCrows
    Nov 21, 2021
    0
    It's almost impossible to believe this game came from the same studio as Breath of the Wild, and the older Zelda games. It's the absolute opposite in terms of quality and breadth of content. All this talk about how Skyward Sword HD fixes everything and makes it a truly amazing game is mind-blowing, almost as much as this game getting good critical reviews even on the original version!

    -    It's almost impossible to believe this game came from the same studio as Breath of the Wild, and the older Zelda games. It's the absolute opposite in terms of quality and breadth of content. All this talk about how Skyward Sword HD fixes everything and makes it a truly amazing game is mind-blowing, almost as much as this game getting good critical reviews even on the original version!

    - Yes, the motion controls are terrible. I played maybe half way through the game with them before switching to a pro controller. There's a novelty to them, a small spark of joy from mimicking the action in the game, that quickly wears off after doing the same action 2 or 3 times. The sheer unwieldy inaccuracy of them is such a slight against every minute of gameplay it's crazy to think they thought this is how they should ship the game. The fervor around motion controls must have been so high during this time in the studio.

    - The motion controls are only a small fraction of the problems this game has though. And the alternate controls, while better, are still clunky enough to put them below any of the other games in the series.

    - Backtracking, padding, and repetition. Backtracking, padding, and repetition. Backtracking. Padding. Repetition. AHHHH! There are three small zones to explore in the entire game basically. And you explore not once, not twice, not three times, but four times! At least! They shuffle some rocks around and say, "Hey! Doesn't this feel like a whole new area?" No. No it doesn't. You fight the same main boss at least three times, in the same arena, only getting another annoying gimmick each time. And spinning your stick around to perform an action is cute the first 5 times. But it just makes every movement through the world tedious after 20 hours.

    - The **** underwater stuff, especially the tadpole minigame, is just the valley of bad game design. Everyone has always hated underwater levels, so they decided to make one of the biggest most tedious ones possible for their game. Why?

    This whole experience has made me wonder if reviewers actually played through the game, or just wrote a review based on what they thought fans wanted hear about a Zelda title. I'm just dumbfounded.    … Expand
  62. Drill-Arm
    Jun 24, 2022
    10
    I always heard this game was literal garbage and ended up skipping it on the Wii, I'm glad I played it now though because this game is LITERALLY wind waker 2 and reuses countless characters and concepts meant for when it was still a GameCube game, but with some OoT thrown in so people on america don't reject it so hard this time.

    Amazing game and the controls are flawless. Don't listen to    I always heard this game was literal garbage and ended up skipping it on the Wii, I'm glad I played it now though because this game is LITERALLY wind waker 2 and reuses countless characters and concepts meant for when it was still a GameCube game, but with some OoT thrown in so people on america don't reject it so hard this time.

    Amazing game and the controls are flawless. Don't listen to stupid game grumps, play this!

    The closest thing I have to a complaint is how amazingly optimized and dense the world's are to be able to fit a game of this scope on a DVD at the time, so you'll be discovering new places of individual worlds at time kind of like a metroidvania.

    Also, there's a game mechanic that is literally mole mania. Awesome stuff    … Expand
  63. Rm4n
    Jul 17, 2021
    8
    good game bad remaster too much money make it like 30 pound jjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjjj
  64. dharma
    Jul 21, 2021
    8
    When it was released, I absolutely adores Skyward Sword and has no problem with its motion controls. Back in the days, I always thought that the Wii was a great revelation, and it was the console that brought me back to the hobby after many years of hiatus. So I am absolutely ecstatic when Nintendo decides to re release this game, remastered on the Switch. Now, I can see that SkywardWhen it was released, I absolutely adores Skyward Sword and has no problem with its motion controls. Back in the days, I always thought that the Wii was a great revelation, and it was the console that brought me back to the hobby after many years of hiatus. So I am absolutely ecstatic when Nintendo decides to re release this game, remastered on the Switch. Now, I can see that Skyward Sword is akin to the Wii U...a prototype of a something better (in this case, the Breath of the Wild), hampered by the limitations imposed on the system. Many people complained about the lack of thereof of available areas....well, it was made for the Wii after all. So to cut things short: great set pieces, dungeons and environments. The 'new' button controls are not as good as you thought and still require a high learning curve. Also due to its lack of environments, fetch quests galore in many areas of the game, hence its repetitive nature in some parts. For those still on the fence, not the best Zelda games, but it is a must play as a precursor to BOTW.… Expand
  65. joash
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    This game is for you if you:
    - Love a good story
    - Love beautiful art directions
    - Love epic music
    - Love Zelda games
    - Love video games
    - Love fun
  66. brunnossantos
    Jul 18, 2021
    9
    It's an excellent game, with an excellent story. The motion controls with the joycon are great and although the graphics are not sickening, it really looks nice considering it's a game from 2011. The only reason I didn't rate it 10 it's the full price
  67. Clyle2046
    Jul 21, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. After playing this game and beating it while using solely motion controls, I can say that this is a very notable Iteration of the Zelda series. From the vibrant colors and great story line to the beloved dungeons and climax of the master sword and Hylian shield, I recommend this game to every and any player. This game reminded me of the love I had for the intricate dungeons and the awesome feeling of getting weapons that are key to the progression. The Final Boss fight…Man I wish Nintendo redid the BOTW boss fight because the previous zelda’s before it really nailed that category. Anyway, give the game a fair chance and try the motion controls. At the end of this game, I loved it so much I went ahead and bought the skyward sword joy-cons to pay homage to this awesome game + give Nintendo more money lol.… Expand
  68. enp27
    Aug 4, 2021
    0
    Really tried to like this game put it still has to many flaws. I can go in detail mid game refuses to explain hidden mechanics to make it seem difficult alot of vague puzzles and trust I have played many difficult games but this takes the price. Not for hard puzzles but vague mechanic like pulling out the harp there's no way of knowing
  69. Ryu_san
    Jul 21, 2021
    9
    Controls are still clunky at times, but improved over the Wii version. If you can get over that, then Skyward Sword HD is a great Zelda title with well-designed dungeons, puzzles, music, characters, and a watercolor-inspired art style that makes this much more enjoyable than the original version.
  70. MentalSeiz
    Jul 20, 2021
    10
    It's a great Zelda game which stands tall with the greatest of all time. It has a great story, some awesome dungeons, an amazing soundtrack and fun gameplay. I advise to ignore haters.
  71. IncognitoCheez
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    This is a perfect Legend of Zelda game, and so by extension, also a perfect game. It holds the charm, character, and heartfelt story as when it first released a decade ago. It ties the wonderful story together with it's unique motion controlled gameplay. The HD version has been upgraded so those strange kids who probably put their sensor bar under their couch in the original version canThis is a perfect Legend of Zelda game, and so by extension, also a perfect game. It holds the charm, character, and heartfelt story as when it first released a decade ago. It ties the wonderful story together with it's unique motion controlled gameplay. The HD version has been upgraded so those strange kids who probably put their sensor bar under their couch in the original version can now play with button controls. Literally every complaint has been fixed with this game, aside from rewriting the game itself. The art style holds up stunningly in HD graphics, and this game running at a steady 1080p 60fps makes it just about the best running game on Switch. Having not played, the original game, this is an entirely new Zelda game and story, making it fully worth the 60 dollars. I've only had the game for 3 days and I've already easily sunk 15 hours into it. For fans of BOTW (which come on everyone loves), this is a must-play. This game has everything that makes Zelda games great; the wonderful creative dungeons (no complicated water dungeons!), the great, heartfelt story, the epic and emotional music, and impressive enemies. If you are a fan of Zelda or gaming in general, play this classic adventure that has shaped an entire generation (not many other games can say that can they hmmm?).… Expand
  72. walbusch
    Jul 19, 2021
    10
    This is a great rework of the wii version almost all of the original issues from the wii version have been fixed. If you tried the original version and stopped cause of any of the many annoying issues I recommend coming back to try this new version as almost all the issues have been fixed.

    The story of Skyward Sword is by far the best of any in the Zelda universe and for that reason    This is a great rework of the wii version almost all of the original issues from the wii version have been fixed. If you tried the original version and stopped cause of any of the many annoying issues I recommend coming back to try this new version as almost all the issues have been fixed.

    The story of Skyward Sword is by far the best of any in the Zelda universe and for that reason alone it is worth picking up. The only major issue in my opinion is the having some quality of life functionality locked behind an amiibo however I have not found this to be an issue in my playthrough.

    In summary I think that this version deserves the score that the wii version got.    … Expand
  73. REMOTER
    Jul 20, 2021
    10
    Do not doubt it. Masterpiece.
    It's been 10 years, but it's a game you can enjoy now.
  74. Seront
    Aug 12, 2021
    0
    I have played and loved so many Zelda games, but this one is just awful. I never got to it on the wii and picked it up on the switch. I .. loathe this game so much. I hate it so much and I’m so angry for wasting 60 dollars on this trash. I finally deleted it half way through the lanayru desert. The controls are just awful.

    Almost as a rule I do not review things online. I created a    I have played and loved so many Zelda games, but this one is just awful. I never got to it on the wii and picked it up on the switch. I .. loathe this game so much. I hate it so much and I’m so angry for wasting 60 dollars on this trash. I finally deleted it half way through the lanayru desert. The controls are just awful.

    Almost as a rule I do not review things online. I created a metacritic solely because of this game. It belongs in a dumpster.

    Go play breath of the wild again. Don’t buy this piece of crap.    … Expand
  75. Romadu
    Jul 18, 2021
    1
    Uncontrollable, awful camera management. Not fun. A complete waste of time!
  76. mikeje
    Jul 21, 2021
    3
    если бы игра стоила косарик, другой разговор, а так если очень хочется поиграть, запустите на эмуляторе и пройдите, поверьте ни чего не потеряете
  77. Elm0_0
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    Skyward sword gets a lot of hate for its price and that "the drift makes it unplayable". I got to agree that these are real problems and need to get a fix by nintendo. This ain't a reason to give this amazing game a bad review.

    The combat may for many be something that needs to get used to. But compaired to its old entery on the switch the combat has had a big 1up. The motion controles    Skyward sword gets a lot of hate for its price and that "the drift makes it unplayable". I got to agree that these are real problems and need to get a fix by nintendo. This ain't a reason to give this amazing game a bad review.

    The combat may for many be something that needs to get used to. But compaired to its old entery on the switch the combat has had a big 1up. The motion controles feel way smoother and if they are off just hold the joycon straight press y and boom all good. The button control is not the best. This ofc comes due to the game being build around motion controls. Even though the game has his lacks in some parts of the gamr its still a really solid 3d zelda game to give a try. People say 60 bucks is too much, but even though its 60 bucks you still have that zelda feeling to it. The characters (especially Groose) are great characters with fun/goofy designs. The story is one of if not they best in the zelda series.

    If there is a zelda game that has a big love/hate ratio its this game. That's mostly because of the many problems it had back in the day on the wii. All these problems are fixed besides some story things (these are difficult to remove by not making it a totally diffrent game) the game has his up and downs but the ups are there wayyyy more then the downs.

    All the other quality of life changes needed to be there and are all there. This game is a MUST play if you like zelda games. Because its one of if not they best out there.    … Expand
  78. Dipirocudo
    Jul 17, 2021
    9
    Show, jogo sensacional, faltou legenda em PT/BR, espero que a Nintendo resolva isso nos próximos jogos
  79. ocd_reviewer
    Jul 19, 2021
    0
    The quality of life improvements are definitely appreciated, but nothing that's being brought to the table can remotely justify the current price tag. Recent remakes like Mass Effect: LE, Mafia: DE, and Resident Evil 2/3 are offering so much more for a similar price tag.

    This would be a fine package if it was cheaper, but prices set expectations and Nintendo has failed to deliver.    The quality of life improvements are definitely appreciated, but nothing that's being brought to the table can remotely justify the current price tag. Recent remakes like Mass Effect: LE, Mafia: DE, and Resident Evil 2/3 are offering so much more for a similar price tag.

    This would be a fine package if it was cheaper, but prices set expectations and Nintendo has failed to deliver. Nintendo at the very least could have bundled an art book and soundtrack with this game, that would have gone a long way to justify the value on top of being a true celebration of this title's legacy.

    Pick this up if you're a big LOZ fan, otherwise, I would recommend waiting till it goes on sale for $45 or lower    … Expand
  80. bound4earth
    Jul 23, 2021
    0
    Talk about a cash-grab, they added no controller controls that work well and things like the flying roach aren't even fun to use. They keep saying how can we use the wii-mote, but never asked themselves, does this really add anything or equal more fun, and when you reach the no conclusion, ask why are we doing this? You can argue this game led to BoTW all you want, but it still makes it aTalk about a cash-grab, they added no controller controls that work well and things like the flying roach aren't even fun to use. They keep saying how can we use the wii-mote, but never asked themselves, does this really add anything or equal more fun, and when you reach the no conclusion, ask why are we doing this? You can argue this game led to BoTW all you want, but it still makes it a bad Zelda game. Tell me the first boss fight is fun and dynamic, oh wait... No it demonstrates how Link is no longer agile and the control scheme, even with Wii-mote controls is beyond flawed.

    It says HD but they didn't even try, the door textures like garbage. It would be worth $15, because they upgraded and changed nothing, but considering that, this is the new president telling fans to pay him $60 for nothing. Legit a zero effort cash-grab that fanboys will eat up. truly sad what they put up with and because of that, you will continue to see low effort trash like this and Mario All Stars, which also changed nothing and destroyed that name.    … Expand
  81. zenn22
    Jul 24, 2021
    0
    absolute garbage, spent 3hrs wondering around with no idea where to go, omegalul
  82. Metapyro
    Jul 18, 2021
    10
    I really feel the game is a strong 9 but I’m giving it a 10 to offset the trolls. It looks amazing. The controls just take a little getting used to. Once you get the hang of it it’s fine. Wonderful sound track as well. For me I know a game is good when it’s hard to peel myself away from it and when I am away from it I’m still thinking about it. This game has done that
  83. Noitamies
    Jul 21, 2021
    0
    First Nintendo licensed game I sell straight away. Masochist. I played 5 hours. You cant just do such awful controls. It's not a game when you cant play it.
  84. Hassan123
    Jul 24, 2021
    0
    The game not ready to be play and also with this price is too much for port
  85. Call-o-freak
    Jul 17, 2021
    4
    This doesn't look better than its Wii Counterpart. Do appreciate the control stick for doing sword swings, but because of joy con drift, I can barely make precise movements. Most of the problems from the wii version are included, such as the empty overworld, annoying character interactions, poor controls, and dragging gameplay. Would be ok if they added new content that didn't costThis doesn't look better than its Wii Counterpart. Do appreciate the control stick for doing sword swings, but because of joy con drift, I can barely make precise movements. Most of the problems from the wii version are included, such as the empty overworld, annoying character interactions, poor controls, and dragging gameplay. Would be ok if they added new content that didn't cost anything, but as we all know, nintendo right now are cheapskates.

    Overall, this game isn't very good, even for a remaster. Save your money for games like Nier: Replicant, Sonic Colors Ultimate, or Pokemon Unite.    … Expand
  86. Gfzact1
    Jul 19, 2021
    4
    The texture's are almost the same it hase no new modes like in sc ultimate (rival rush.jade gost wisp.costumation And 4K)
  87. snallegub
    Jul 22, 2021
    4
    DO NOT BUY THIS GAME. The game nearly is unplayable. You need to reset the motion sensor every 10 seconds. The rope walks for example is pure torture. Every time you try to aim you start by hitting the reset button to get the motion controls to work. You can disable those but then YOU CANNOT TURN THE CAMERA! That is because the sword is then controlled by the right thumb stick. This gameDO NOT BUY THIS GAME. The game nearly is unplayable. You need to reset the motion sensor every 10 seconds. The rope walks for example is pure torture. Every time you try to aim you start by hitting the reset button to get the motion controls to work. You can disable those but then YOU CANNOT TURN THE CAMERA! That is because the sword is then controlled by the right thumb stick. This game is pure agony avoid at all costs. Nobody ever wanted these motion controls and this game should never have been ported.… Expand
  88. SuperFabian64
    Jul 18, 2021
    0
    Low effort port sold at full price. A product that has more or less been available on emulators since the original release of the game. This game deserved a proper remaster. If not, then cut the price in half and drop the HD branding. HD in this case just means it meets the bare minimum a game released today has to uphold; an HD resolution. The texture quality is still that of a Wii gameLow effort port sold at full price. A product that has more or less been available on emulators since the original release of the game. This game deserved a proper remaster. If not, then cut the price in half and drop the HD branding. HD in this case just means it meets the bare minimum a game released today has to uphold; an HD resolution. The texture quality is still that of a Wii game though. They barely touched this one, which kind of makes me wonder what it is that I'm paying for, when the original game exists for a third of the price. Mario's 35th anniversary got 3D All-Stars, and Zelda got this. I'm almost scared of what's to come.… Expand
  89. davygravy93
    Jul 18, 2021
    0
    Another minimum effort port by Nintendo that fanboys will gladly light themselves on fire to defend. The character models have been remastered in HD but the textures on the levels themselves did not get the same treatment, so there is this weird juxtaposition any time you're not in a dungeon(eg most of the time). Its nice that the motion controls are optional but this is somethingAnother minimum effort port by Nintendo that fanboys will gladly light themselves on fire to defend. The character models have been remastered in HD but the textures on the levels themselves did not get the same treatment, so there is this weird juxtaposition any time you're not in a dungeon(eg most of the time). Its nice that the motion controls are optional but this is something emulators figured out years ago, it hardly warrants a full 60 dollar price tag considering the only other improvement is making Fi talk less. The QOL improvements are nice but the core problems of SS weren't the controls or visuals but rather a lack of content both in the sky and in the ground below.

    Playing SS again its easy to see why nintendo moved away from this style of zelda, the intro alone takes hours before you even get the sword and up to that point its just dialogue and cutscenes which a stark contrast to Breath of The Wild a game that takes only minutes to get going. The pacing in general is pretty bad compared to most Zelda games and it comes down to the sheer amount of padding throughout the game. The amount of backtracking you have to do is beyond excessive, there's only 3 explorable areas and you'll be going back to each one THREE TIMES, I dare anyone who played this to tell me collecting the songs at the end was fun, I finished the game just for the sake of writing this review otherwise I would have dropped the game.

    Listen if you like SS that's fine, but allowing nintendo to release port after port with low effort and maximum price only tells them that you're okay with the same garbage being served to you over and over again. Idk about you but personally Id rather have new and innovative games like BOTW than lazy ports that dwell in the past.    … Expand
  90. colee909
    Jul 19, 2021
    1
    It looks like a 2021 link running through a gross blurry Wii world. Button controls SUCK and are completely unintuitive. The biggest improvements are to thinks like Fi and skipping cutscenes, which were inexcusable upon release, so acting like these are significant improvements is really disingenuous. Is the game better than the Wii version? I mean sure I guess. But I promise it's not thatIt looks like a 2021 link running through a gross blurry Wii world. Button controls SUCK and are completely unintuitive. The biggest improvements are to thinks like Fi and skipping cutscenes, which were inexcusable upon release, so acting like these are significant improvements is really disingenuous. Is the game better than the Wii version? I mean sure I guess. But I promise it's not that much better, especially compared to the $20 Virtual console release on Wii u… Expand
  91. somepapi
    Jul 19, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Skyward Sword originally on the Wii of course had its flaws, the motion controls weren’t super fluid if you were incompetent and couldn’t figure out how to set it up. And it was really annoying to sit through tiny little interruptions every few steps you took unlike Ocarina of Time where Navi was ignorable. This time around in the HD remaster, you can be incompetent and still use the motion controls, and Fi shuts up. Unfortunately this comes at a cost, the accuracy and fluidity is all gone. The aiming constantly drifts with the Gust Bellows or the Beetle. And this isn’t due to stick drift it’s just general bad gyro drift that happens a lot in even some other titles. The motion controls for the bird and sky diving is bearable and the swimming sections aren’t too bad. But they aren’t what they used to be. The game does look really good being now of course in HD and 60fps…. for the most part. During the fire spider boss in the 2nd dungeon it lagged whenever I got close and looked at too many fire balls being thrown my way. It’s really depressing when I see a Nintendo original title, being incapable of being fully played at a constant and clean rate on its own console. On to other reviews i’ve seen, Nintendo almost literally payed off so many reviewers with giving them copies and other goodies, this game has been unfairly reviewed across Metacritic and other platforms like YouTube. They can’t really say the truth about how bad some controls are because they’re product was given for free. So “Brutally Honest Reviews” end up being more like “Im scared this company won’t send me more free stuff reviews”. It’s disappointing that something like this happens. But either way back to the game, I’ve played the first Half of the game already making it past the first Silent Realm. But I don’t need to beat the whole game to make this review since I already did 10 years ago. There is no need to criticize the games story and gameplay at this point because whatever’s been said before will just be said again. But honestly the only thing TO critique is the “NEW” controls that they used. Maybe if Nintendo released a new sensor bar or something for the Switch that would help it that would be incredible. But I doubt it, it would be pretty dumb. The aiming isn’t fun because for some DUMB reason they position the pointer wherever the system THINKS??? your pointer is and not just in the centre... Just put the pointer in the centre whenever it’s needed, and if they need to reset the gyro then reset it. Other wise it comes at a cost like your pointer being in the corner and causing you to aim incorrectly. I cannot stress how bad the 3rd dungeon was because of the Gust Bellow being so horrible, not in the practical sense because it’s a fun item. But because the aiming is actually bad…The sword motions are usually 85% accurate. It’s not accurate too many times for me to say 90% and higher. The bombs are pretty much the same. it always has a good idea of when your joy-con is upwards or downwards to roll it or Kobe it. The reason I’m really giving this game a 8 is because I just like this game and Zelda in general. I payed alot of money for the game, the Skyward Sword joy-cons and the Zelda Amiibo. I do love the story, the dungeons, the combat and characters, it’s Zelda, of course it’s gonna be amazing with you look at the rest and ignore the control aspect to the game. And if this was the Original Wii version I would’ve gave it a 9, not a 10 due to its controls and Fi of course. But this time around. The controls are truly a bit worse, and the whole controller complaints are NOW justified. We didn’t know how good we had it back then… And that’s it for MY TRUE BRUTALLY HONEST review.… Expand
  92. SporadicDeviant
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    I've already written a review of the original Wii version of the game on this site. and what I said in that review still stands here. Overall this version has some tweaks to the experience. Some are minor like text speed and some are major like framerate, and the ability to use button controls in lieu of motion controls.

    While I think the motion controls in both the original and the    I've already written a review of the original Wii version of the game on this site. and what I said in that review still stands here. Overall this version has some tweaks to the experience. Some are minor like text speed and some are major like framerate, and the ability to use button controls in lieu of motion controls.

    While I think the motion controls in both the original and the remaster not only work exceptionally well but also make the game a true 10 out of 10 experience, it's nice that those who couldn't use the motion controls in the original release (for whatever reason) can now have the chance to experience this wonderful game. Also there's no stick drift with motion controls. Just saying.

    The other changes aren't major unless you're the type who fixates on framerate/graphics. I like the new camera. I was not one of those who thought the item text boxes were a major issue and I knew that Fi's advice and dowsing were mostly optional so a majority of the quality of life changes didn't really "improve" the game for me because I never found those elements to be true objective flaws with the original version. Nevertheless the attempts to make the game more accessible to certain other gamers is admirable.

    If you are one of the people spamming 0's, 1's, or 2's, (because you have terrible taste in games) I advise you not to get your gaming takes from Youtube personalities (that may or may not have multiple This is How You Don't Play compilations dedicated to them).

    Whether on Wii, Wii-U, or Switch, The Legend of Zelda Skyward Sword is an objective masterpiece in terms of story-telling, game design, and especially controls.    … Expand
  93. Link_the_garden
    Jul 19, 2021
    9
    I never got off skyloft the first attempt and playing this so was really keen to give this a go. I'm about 5 hours in, playing with motion controls and I'm slowly getting used to it. I really think the controls are the only thing that lets this game down.
  94. manuel29
    Jul 19, 2021
    10
    A wonderful remaster, the controls are perfect, the improvements of qol have made a good game even more enjoyable. Although years have passed, motion control continues to entertain and has been a beautiful rediscovery. I would have put 9 but there are trolls...
  95. Botwfan2
    Jul 21, 2021
    10
    I love this game. I wasn't too crazy about it when it came out on the Wii, but man is it much better now. It removed the Blurry backgrounds of the original, the text boxes have names so I know who's speaking now, and Fi is mostly optional! I didn't mind the motion controls on the Wii, but they're better now so i like them, and the button controls are perfect for when i want to lay down andI love this game. I wasn't too crazy about it when it came out on the Wii, but man is it much better now. It removed the Blurry backgrounds of the original, the text boxes have names so I know who's speaking now, and Fi is mostly optional! I didn't mind the motion controls on the Wii, but they're better now so i like them, and the button controls are perfect for when i want to lay down and play the game in bed. I still to this day think its story is the best in any Zelda game, and the way its presented is incredible. sure the exploration is sacrificed a bit for that, but i think its worth it. 10/10 would recommend… Expand
  96. johnnykracker
    Aug 2, 2021
    0
    Unplayable. The controls are probably the worst in any game on any platform. If You want to just play with a control sitting on your couch it is actually impossible to move the camera without holding down the shoulder button. Did nobody quality control this before it was released. Pure garbage.
  97. Stubabyuk
    Aug 10, 2021
    4
    Worst Zelda game in the series gets a mediocre remake and dreadful controls. Avoid.
  98. EdgadusAbr
    Aug 6, 2021
    0
    A game full of recycled graphics that is not even noticeable, certain graphic effects were even eliminated, and they presume that it is a great thing, and when playing in traditional mode it is exaggeratedly horrible and is only played in a normal way with joycon, for what a switch lite will be of no use. Even Nintendo boasts of that knowing that there have already been other releases fromA game full of recycled graphics that is not even noticeable, certain graphic effects were even eliminated, and they presume that it is a great thing, and when playing in traditional mode it is exaggeratedly horrible and is only played in a normal way with joycon, for what a switch lite will be of no use. Even Nintendo boasts of that knowing that there have already been other releases from the competition and with much better results. The 60 or 70 that cost better buy a second-hand xbox 360 or about 3 games of the best rated on Playstation 4 or other platforms.… Expand
  99. Dudraug
    Aug 12, 2021
    10
    Wow. Fantastic game. Interesting fight system, various good puzzles, many side quest, much exploring. Good old school Zelda. Don’t believe those who say that control is not good… at least non-motion is ok. I’ll try motion in 2nd playthrough. Strongly recommend.
  100. linkenski
    Aug 12, 2021
    9
    Skyward Sword HD is the best version of a good game. Those who forgive the motion-control experiment will look back on this with fondness. The updated performance and QoL features increases its appeal and accessibility.

    Skyward Sword is a railroaded Zelda title, which means it's less about exploring a vast world and more about non-stop walking through interesting gameplay and    Skyward Sword HD is the best version of a good game. Those who forgive the motion-control experiment will look back on this with fondness. The updated performance and QoL features increases its appeal and accessibility.

    Skyward Sword is a railroaded Zelda title, which means it's less about exploring a vast world and more about non-stop walking through interesting gameplay and level-design concepts laid out by the developers. It used to have a heavy hand-holding approach to this with constant interruptions from your companion character Fi, but this has been respectfully tucked away in this amazing HD remaster of the title. A fully-fledged Zelda game running at 60fps is a treat. People who played the 3DS game A Link Between Worlds will know the delight of the improved feedback that comes with the faster frame-rate, but being the first fully 3D title to do this, it almost puts past re-releases to shame, and gives a high expectation for the next Zelda projects.

    FOR FANS OF VIDEO GAMES: What you need to expect going into this game is a jam-packed adventure that takes you from A to Z, has a tangible storyline that keeps evolving to its inevitable climax. Throughout this adventure it's non-stop back-to-back level-design ideas, variety in enemies to fight, and a constantly expanding arsenal of equipment that changes how you play, starting with a sword, a mechanical beetle that remotely manipulates objects in the game-world, and things like the Whip that lets Link lash across gaps like Tarzan, or the Hookshot that allows you to grapple from wall to wall like you're Spider-Man. It's straight up action, and in the seams between all the action you're traversing diverse biomes ranging from forested areas, a volcano and a vast desert and pirate ships. This variety in location makes the game feel like a true adventure where you as a player change with the places you go through, and look back fondly on where you started by the game's end. Besides the ongoing plot and adventure, you have a hub-location up in the clouds which you traverse by flying on the back of a big bird, and this land of sky houses a central hub where you buy items and upgrade equipment, and do story-driven side-quests with the inhabitants of the City of Skyloft, which lasts well into the 50 hours it takes to clear the game. Outside of the city, the clouds have tons of other small floating islands that contain secret items and additional characters and mini-games to discover. You'll alternate between progressing the story and doing errands in the sky, but it's up to you. The game is flexible so any optional content is entirely up to the player, and you can easily have fun just solving some of it, or spending lots of time in the sky before continuing the linear adventure. The story is about the formation of a hero and the implied romantic connection to the girl Zelda who will later be remembered in franchise history as a legendary princess. That might sound sappy, but the script is filled with quirks and smart writing by Nintendo America's localization team that will make it hard not to crack a smile. And it might make you feel something as you witness these character grow as their impression of the world they live in changes with the discovery of "the land below the clouds" as well as the villain's quest to trap Zelda in a dark ritual which will unleash his demonic master and threaten the world. As Link, or as the player, your task is to prevent this, doing all of the things described above. A true epic adventure awaits you in this game.

    FOR ZELDA FANS THAT MISSED IT
    The game is very similar to previous 3D Zeldas like Ocarina of Time, Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, more closely evolving the direction Twilight Princess took but with a touch of Wind Waker's approach to an overworld. The skies are not full of places to be specifically, and most of its scope is similar to sailing the boat where there's negative-space but while you're heading between two island the game spawns critters, rupees to grab and enemies to avoid, and there are speed-grates between rock-formations to go through for a bit of variety in your traversal skills. On the ground it's a very linear A->B style world design. It first appears to be big landmasses but evidently becomes pure levels like in a 3D Mario game, where you must solve puzzles to progress through them. In a sense the game is a non-stop dungeon, and there's lots of optional things to miss and return to later on, in each location, and the travel between ground and sky is freely accessible to you at any point.

    FOR PEOPLE THAT ALREADY PLAYED Skyward Sword
    You're signing up for exactly the same game but with more option to play it the way you want it to. The textures have been redone by Tantalus Media, and there's now an added free-camera control seperate from the motion controls. With the updates to QoL and framerate you're getting the definitive way to replay a good game.    … Expand
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Awards & Rankings

56
#56 Best Switch Game of 2021
4
#4 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2021

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
81

Generally favorable reviews - based on 106 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 89 out of 106
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 106
  3. Negative: 1 out of 106
  1. Gamersky
    Dec 20, 2021
    77
    The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD on NS brought this once masterpiece back to the player's vision. However, its crappy control and a somewhat old-fashioned design make it seem less attractive nowadays.
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  2. RPGamer
    Nov 22, 2021
    70
    Skyward Sword HD should be commended for its attempt to improve on the original. Having a new control scheme and making a good deal of Fi’s advice optional make it a more palatable experience. However, the game still suffers from pacing issues that made the original feel too bloated as well as a disappointing deemphasis on exploration. This remaster could have realistically improved upon a lot, yet it would still fall short compared to the series’ strongest entries. There is still enough for those looking for a more traditional 3D Zelda experience on the Switch provided they keep their expectations in check.
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  3. JeuxActu
    Oct 16, 2021
    65
    Yes the picture is sharper, yes the game is smoother (60fps), yes there have been some improvements to make the adventure more enjoyable, but damn the gameplay has taken a hell of a beating in the back of the head. It was already painful in 2011, it is even more 10 years later, and it is not the tinkering in classic controls that will sublimate the gameplay of this Zelda : Skyward Sword HD.
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