The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

 Wii
User Score
8.1

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2628 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,980 out of 2628
  2. Mixed: 360 out of 2628
  3. Negative: 288 out of 2628
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  1. dorinoriori29
    May 10, 2016
    10
    One of the best games ever! Story, artstyle, gameplay, dungeons are all amazing! Some of the best boss fights in the series! The motion controls also work flawlessly and add new strategy to the sword-fights. Overall a must-have.
  2. SkullKid
    Apr 18, 2017
    10
    Amazing game! The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is one of the best games in the series, for the wii, and even all time!
    It has some of the best dungeon design in the series, with notable standouts being Ancient Cistern and Sandship, and one of the new developments they took with this game- having the overworld feature puzzles in the vein of metroid, worked really well too. The game    Amazing game! The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is one of the best games in the series, for the wii, and even all time!
    It has some of the best dungeon design in the series, with notable standouts being Ancient Cistern and Sandship, and one of the new developments they took with this game- having the overworld feature puzzles in the vein of metroid, worked really well too. The game features some truly wonderful areas, from the pleasant Faron Woods, which is jam-packed with things to explore, to the vast Sand Sea, which is one of the most creative examples of level design I've seen in any game. The sky is also awesome- I find it funny when people complain about it being empty. ITS THE SKY!!! What did you expect?? It does have the occasional island, but thats all I expected of it. The main overworld where all the intsersting secrets and such is on the surface! The main hub area, Skyloft, is also great and filled with side-quests to do inbetween the main game.
    One of the biggest new features of the game is its full use of 1:1 motion controls. Other than occasionally having to recalibrate, they work fantastic! It was such a joy to have Link's sword swings match up with yours, and this made for some awesome sword fights, even with smaller enemies. The game's combat now has an added layer of depth and strategy- you have to watch your enemies movements and hit them a certain way.The boss fights are also a blast, and make excellent, creative use of the motion controls. Ghirahim, Demise, Levias, and Koloktos are the highlithgts. There are also some really awesome moments in this game, like scaling soaring desert cliffs with the clawshots, speeding through an ancient shipyard on mine carts, flying through the vast sky on your loftwing. The Silent Realms, which are a new addition to the series, are also awesome, and do a really good job of scaring the sh*t out of you!
    The story is very well done- this is one of the most story-driven zelda games, with a more extensive use of cinematic cutscenes and a strong narrative. Without any spoilers, its great, and works as a great set-up for the series. There are some really emotional moments, and its filled with great, unique characters. Groose is awesome! He gets his own story arc which even leads to some surprisingly emotional scenes. Even Link is more expressive this time! This is the best depiction of Link and Zelda in the whole series in my opinion. Yes, this is more linear than most zeldas, but it allows for a very cinematic, story-driven experience while still feeling like an actual video GAME.
    The music in this game, while not quite living up to other 3D zeldas, is outstanding and varied. The soundtrack ranges from epic orchestral pieces, to catchy rural tunes, to oriental-inspired themes, and all in all its fantastic.
    One of the best things about this game is its sheer creativity and vision. They really wanted to create a unique experience, and succeeded in every way! From new, incredibly creative game mechanics like the time-shift stones, to the revolutionary motion controls, the new items, to all the new additions they've added to the zelda formula. Also, some of the ideas and designs are so imaginative its crazy!! For example, there's a large sequence in the game where you hunt down ancient robot pirates on an invisible japanese-style ship across a sea of sand using stones that send you to the past. It doesn't get much more creative than that, and its incredibly awesome to witness! Overall, Skyward Sword is a truly awesome game, and the people who don't like it are, most often, ignorant fools who either A) have wireless internet in the vicinity interfering with the motion controls, B) don't know how to use motion controls (the vast majority), C) are nostalgia-blinded morons who say "ooh, its too linear...", or D) are Sony and Xbox fanboys.    … Expand
  3. RSD4G
    Jun 22, 2016
    8
    This is such a pretty game, the game has the best story yet. It's the beginning of it all. The graphics, lighting, puzzles and gameplay is amazing as always.
    The only things I didn't really like at all were that Link gets tired of running, climbing and fighting. I've also never really liked the Wii's controls and third, I didn't like the "voice-acting" for the game, Link is supposed to be    This is such a pretty game, the game has the best story yet. It's the beginning of it all. The graphics, lighting, puzzles and gameplay is amazing as always.
    The only things I didn't really like at all were that Link gets tired of running, climbing and fighting. I've also never really liked the Wii's controls and third, I didn't like the "voice-acting" for the game, Link is supposed to be some sort of nordic elf guy, but the sounds he makes got me picturing a very very very asian guy (like a Ninja kick or something) and the fact that Link and Zelda don't look sexy anymore and look kinda dumb.
    Besides that, this game is very cool to play, amazing story, design and gameplay. Loved playing the Lanayru Dessert.    … Expand
  4. Techwars2137
    Jun 27, 2016
    10
    This game...is amazing on probaly every level. How could there be negative reviews of this game, if it's the motion controls then that's bullcrap. The graphics are breathtaking, the soundtrack is beautiful, the characters are lovable, the story was great, the puzzles were hard, and the action was awesome. Yeah the controls can be messy at times but why complain about that when there's soThis game...is amazing on probaly every level. How could there be negative reviews of this game, if it's the motion controls then that's bullcrap. The graphics are breathtaking, the soundtrack is beautiful, the characters are lovable, the story was great, the puzzles were hard, and the action was awesome. Yeah the controls can be messy at times but why complain about that when there's so much more positive about this masterpiece. If you haven't played it, do yourself a huge favor and do it.… Expand
  5. TheZeldaGeek
    Jul 15, 2016
    10
    (BTW small spoilers, like very small. Like, nothing you wouldn't know after the first dungeon. Either way, you probably all ready knew them before reading this) A masterpiece. One of My favorite games of all time, my second favorite zelda game, as well as just video game in general, and the margin between it and wind waker isn't even that big. It easily has the best combat in the series,(BTW small spoilers, like very small. Like, nothing you wouldn't know after the first dungeon. Either way, you probably all ready knew them before reading this) A masterpiece. One of My favorite games of all time, my second favorite zelda game, as well as just video game in general, and the margin between it and wind waker isn't even that big. It easily has the best combat in the series, with intuitive motion controls that are fun, challenging, responsive, and immersive. The story is very emotional, with some of the best story telling in the series, Ghirahims an amazing villain, the relationship shown between link and zelda is soooo cute, and heartwarming, zelda fans will gush over all the lore given in this installment, skyloft is full of fun and rewarding side quest (BTW, give the letter to Karane, you'll know what i mean), the dungeons and bosses are some of the best in the series, It looks beautiful, it has the hands down best soundtrack not only in the series, but in video games as a whole (in my opinion) with ballad of the being goddess's my favorite zelda song ever. My only real problem was with the skydiving, but it only had to be precise enough for it to be annoying once or twice within the story,so it wasn't a problem. In the end, this is the kind of game the wii was made for. One that takes everything that we love from the series, mixes it up just enough to be different, but little enough to keep what makes it so great, and adds the most fun motion controls you could think of. If you have a wii or wii u, and a wii-motion plus controller+ nunchuck, get this game in all it's glory, you will not regret it.… Expand
  6. Nightmare13D
    Aug 18, 2016
    10
    By far, the best Zelda game ever. The controls are amazing. People hate the controls because the tend to swing it at a **** 250km/hr. The music is stunning, and the visuals make you orgasm. 10/10
  7. veedub
    Sep 6, 2016
    10
    This is a truly wonderful game. One of the best I've ever played. It is loaded with epic moments against incredibly-designed enemies, wonderful sword fights that actually feel like swashbuckling -- actually dealing with thrust/parry/swipe quick decisions instead of the "sit there with your shield up until they open up to an attack" characteristic of all other games in this genre --This is a truly wonderful game. One of the best I've ever played. It is loaded with epic moments against incredibly-designed enemies, wonderful sword fights that actually feel like swashbuckling -- actually dealing with thrust/parry/swipe quick decisions instead of the "sit there with your shield up until they open up to an attack" characteristic of all other games in this genre -- head-scratching puzzles, clever relics and wonderful new world mechanics at every phase of the game.

    You'll feel the full range of emotions you can get from video games -- the rush of feeling so incredibly powerful; The terror of impossible odds and the relief from overcoming them; the joy of getting to play with a new toy every hour or so; a sense of wonder from exploring the beautiful world designed for this game; both happiness and sadness from the wonderful story; the sheer frustration from some of the most difficult enemies near the end of the game, versus the overwhelming sense of accomplishment when you defeat them.

    In the game's predecessor, Twilight Princess, the motion controls felt slapped on. In Skyward Sword, the game is designed around the motion controls, and many of the controls don't feel like they could really be replicated without them. They're very intuitive; my only complaint is at times they can be finicky -- i.e. they don't always respond to what you're *thinking* -- for example, you are thinking "swipe this way" but occasionally instead it swipes a different way. But the game is fun enough that even this seems to be a minor frustration compared to how much the game ROCKS.

    Not quite perfect, but just about as close as it gets.    … Expand
  8. Linkfan
    Mar 6, 2017
    10
    Skyward Sword is one of the best video games I have ever played, the story is amazing, the graphics are the best on wii, the story is the best of the franchise and one of the best stories ever put in a video game, the gear is original, and, the controls and gameplay are also the best of the series. Skyward Sword also has some of the best bosses ever seen in a video game (yes I'm looking atSkyward Sword is one of the best video games I have ever played, the story is amazing, the graphics are the best on wii, the story is the best of the franchise and one of the best stories ever put in a video game, the gear is original, and, the controls and gameplay are also the best of the series. Skyward Sword also has some of the best bosses ever seen in a video game (yes I'm looking at you Koloktos and Ghirahim). What more can I say? This is the best Zelda game ever made and is the ultimate motion-controlled game.… Expand
  9. greninjaX
    Nov 16, 2019
    10
    i don't think people give skyward sword enough credit. a lot of things breath of the wild did, like stamina, crafting, a glider, skyward sword did first. it also has the 2 best Zelda characters, being groose and ghirahim. and the motion controls always worked for me, so git gud deku scrub
  10. Gilberto
    Dec 21, 2011
    10
    The Legend of Zelda Skywar Sword is incredible! This is the type of videogames that I like and find specially magical. From my perspective, this new generation of consoles (the ps3 and xbox) have gone far into destroying what I remember most proudly of what videogames were about, and what I remember about them, comes back from the days of the N64. It was all about, creativeness, crazy andThe Legend of Zelda Skywar Sword is incredible! This is the type of videogames that I like and find specially magical. From my perspective, this new generation of consoles (the ps3 and xbox) have gone far into destroying what I remember most proudly of what videogames were about, and what I remember about them, comes back from the days of the N64. It was all about, creativeness, crazy and memorable characters, also crazy and memorable places, and just simply pure unadult fun! Admittably this generation has its share of good and popular games, but they lack the escence of it all, atleast that is what I feel. Nintendo is the only company keeping up with this magic and Skyward Sword shows this every second while at the same time being intutive, new and fresh. In terms of gameplay, theirs simply no game like it, the Wiis motion plus adds so much to the game in terms of combat and gameplay mechanics. They are not perfect per say, but work pretty well and definately makes it more fun than its predessesors. Its level design is pure Nintendo brilliance. Its story is surprisingly emotional and memorable, at the end, it really maked me feel much more than many other games and this one doesnt even have voice acting, its just pure text. Its grahics are beautiful and artistic. In a generation were developers focus on being more realistic with each game, Skyward Sword is a gift from heaven and definately a game I am sure I am going to remember more in terms of its looks than those others gray and black games. Its music is also spectacular with some tunes being orchestrated; Zelda has always had great music and this one is no different. So in terms of basics, this game is outstanding, no matter from what angle, but the different details it offers makes it a true masterpiece. Its easily 30-35 hour adventure and considerably more with its hidden content, making it once again stand out from the rest of the pack in a time were games last 5-10 hours(call of duty), admittably a portion of the game felt like padding ( the third trip to the forest and volcano surfaces) but as an experience it holded incredibly strong during the entire game. This game its full of great moments, and it accomplishes so much more than most other games. I really liked this game alot! Is this the best Zelda? That is debatetable, as it also changes alot of of things that we are accostumed in the series and that may be welcomed differently by each person, but wether it is the best or not (i have not concluded, as each one is so outstanding in its own way) I from the bottom of my heart can conclude that this is a masterpiece of a game, and is so much more than alot of games that come everyday. My game of the year!… Expand
  11. BrianC
    Dec 20, 2011
    8
    A great Zelda game, worthy of the time it takes to complete. Not as good as Ocarina of Time, but up there. That being said, there are a number of shortcomings. (1) It's too childish throughout. The cartoonish pastel color art direction, the dialogue, the Fun Fun clown/mime abomination, and worst of all: the Tentalus boss that looks like a Whoopi Goldberg Cabbage Patch Doll. (2) It's tooA great Zelda game, worthy of the time it takes to complete. Not as good as Ocarina of Time, but up there. That being said, there are a number of shortcomings. (1) It's too childish throughout. The cartoonish pastel color art direction, the dialogue, the Fun Fun clown/mime abomination, and worst of all: the Tentalus boss that looks like a Whoopi Goldberg Cabbage Patch Doll. (2) It's too linear. There is a much more limited array of exploration here than in past games. It is simply not difficult or challenging to find most items. (3) The fetch quests are painful and pointless at times. (4) Gratitude crystals. Worst Zelda idea ever. (5) Hero mode offers little replay value. Hardly anything is different.… Expand
  12. Tav2244
    Dec 25, 2011
    10
    Skyward Sword is simply one of the greatest games I have ever played, perfect from start to finish. The controls are perfect and the music is spell-binding! Although there may be a few niggles, they aren't major. Well worth a purchase. 10/10
  13. DrNo0
    Nov 30, 2011
    9
    Good game not better than ocarina of time. People who say the controls dont work are dumb **** The only time when the controls get bad is when you switch items. the graphics in the game are alright gameplay feels a little different from past games. The only complaint I have with the game is that its too easy.
  14. Mastik
    Dec 27, 2011
    10
    Skyward Sword's main strength is that the game has magic. charming, creative, fantastic. it a magical feel that so many modern games lack. the game advance the franchise it a lot of ways. it's story line is simply the best in Zelda's history. like the rest of the game, it's extremely charming and well executed. the cutsence are so well directed and orchestrated, and they help drew you inSkyward Sword's main strength is that the game has magic. charming, creative, fantastic. it a magical feel that so many modern games lack. the game advance the franchise it a lot of ways. it's story line is simply the best in Zelda's history. like the rest of the game, it's extremely charming and well executed. the cutsence are so well directed and orchestrated, and they help drew you in the experience. Sword combat and item use is so intuitive and fits the game perfectly . The art style is amazingly clever, but it's still the WII. the game itself is not perfect, but taken as an experience Skyward Sword is magical, the sort of Magical that will don't see anymore in gaming today. simply everyone must try this out. it has became my favorite Zelda alongside Wind Waker. And now, let's see what Zelda can Nintendo create with some real horse power on the WII U.… Expand
  15. Umaro67
    Dec 27, 2011
    9
    Skyward Sword is the first and only Zelda game built ground up for the Wii and makes extensive use of Wii Motion Plus in nearly every aspect of its designs. Overall I believe this to be among the better Zelda games and a significantly better game than the Wii version of Twilight Princess in terms of its controls and level design. I don't need to describe much else because if it's a ZeldaSkyward Sword is the first and only Zelda game built ground up for the Wii and makes extensive use of Wii Motion Plus in nearly every aspect of its designs. Overall I believe this to be among the better Zelda games and a significantly better game than the Wii version of Twilight Princess in terms of its controls and level design. I don't need to describe much else because if it's a Zelda game, they all follow the same design principles. What this one did right: The sword combat is the most engaging it's ever been. Every single enemy requires special attention in order to to be defeated. This includes proper sword swings and blocking/countering. Countering is especially neat, allowing you to stun enemies with a well-timed shield bash that deflects an attack, but a poorly timed one will still block an attack at the cost of shield integrity. The sword controls can be a bit much to get used to, but when I was more careful, swung with my whole arm and made more deliberate arm movements I found that accuracy of the sword fighting to be 100%. At worst when I was flicking my wrist around and flinching it was as low as 30%. It takes some practice and technique, but once mastered is a profoundly rewarding system. Going to back to earlier Zelda games, the combat suddenly feels empty and bland. Skyward Sword answers a question I didn't know I had, and this is one reason why Skyward Sword is perhaps the best 3D Zelda game yet. Another is the level design. There are only a few major areas, and each has a predictable theme you've already seen before. That doesn't really matter much in the long run. The environments are meticulously designed and incredibly well-used. As the game progressed, the environments changed in ways that surprised and impressed even me, a 20 year veteran on the series. The maps are also the most detailed, colorful and easy to use of any 3D Zelda. The dungeons are often brilliant. In many ways they are a return to basics, yet explore new avenues in their own ways. One aspect I was floored by is that enemies do not reappear after you've killed them unless you quit the game or leave the dungeon entirely. This lent a even more powerful sensation to combat, that each encounter was final and satisfying. The puzzles are really slick, in particular towards the end there is some of the best dungeon puzzles I've ever seen, and certainly the best incorporation of different items and skills together in the same breaths. The menus and interfaces for navigating your items are also the most accessible and don't hurt the flow of game, everything is seamless. The items feel great on the Wii motion plus, the bow packs a punch, the beetle is just sweet and other returning members such as the bombs have new functionality. The items all worked flawlessly for me, no control issues except for the occasional centering. Which brings to what the game did wrong: the really could have used the senor bar to auto-center the controller like Wii Sports Resort did. The camera was also an issue, at this point there really should be a comprehensive solution the a 3D camera and there isn't. No right stick, no D-pad control like many other superb Wii games have utilized. Nothing but Z-targeting and looking around in first person with C button. So in order to look at something, I have to either switch my method of viewing the world entirely and slowly turn towards it, or snap the camera around with the Z button, guessing which way exactly I need to face to get the best view. It's just clunky, they had five years to figure something out. I would have taken some simple rotation control on the D-Pad, and those buttons on the D-pad are not even used for anything. Very unfortunate. There's to much talking, the new side kick is a very, very talkative character and her text moves very, very slowly. Even mashing the A button barely speeds things up. At this point, we really outta be past the constant instruction. She even repeats the same blasted instructions you've heard before, just because well in case you forgot, ugh. Overall, I very much recommend Skyward Sword to any fan of action adventure and Zelda games. Ultimately, a willingness to learn new control schemes and adapt to them will be the best indicator, this game isn't for everyone. It's the toughest 3D Zelda yet, has the most moving soundtrack, has a fantastic new inventory and upgrading system and all kinds of other anachronistic features and elements that will polarize your emotions against themselves. It certainly did to me, and initially I didn't like Skyward Sword. In time it revealed itself to me, but not without some extra effort and tolerance on my end. Despite Nintendo's ultra-inclusive philosophies on design, the only Zelda game made for the Wii is also the most challenging. Skyward Sword is great both because and despite this. It will be loved and hated. For what it's worth, I found it a road well worth traveling.… Expand
  16. TheReviewPerson
    Nov 30, 2011
    9
    A 7.8 userscore are you guys nuts? This game is freakin' awesome! The story is the best in any Zelda game. I'd love to say more but I don't wanna spoil it. The controls are nearly flawless, and when they do get out of alignment, just press down to automatically center it. Or if they screw up (which only happened to me like twice) press 1 on your WiiMote and recalibrate the controls, it'sA 7.8 userscore are you guys nuts? This game is freakin' awesome! The story is the best in any Zelda game. I'd love to say more but I don't wanna spoil it. The controls are nearly flawless, and when they do get out of alignment, just press down to automatically center it. Or if they screw up (which only happened to me like twice) press 1 on your WiiMote and recalibrate the controls, it's very helpful. Be warned, though. The game starts VERY slowly in the beginning. You do some crap for like an hour before you actually get into the action. This game, like all the other Zelda games, have no voice acting,which I actually prefer. It gives the player the ability to portray the characters to whoever you want them to be like. As a result, they're more likeable and the player can bond with them more easily, which is pretty hard for video games to do nowadays. As for visuals....Well...It's the Wii. It isn't the most powerful console out their. But what they didn't have in power, they made up with this cool impressionist artstyle, the same they used in Wind Waker. This makes everything in the game pop out with it's lush bright colors and it's very refreshing to look at. Not only that, but it also puts more emphasis on enemy expressions so you can view their weakspots a lot easier. The AI has been greatly improved from the past games. You can't just randomly waggle your WiiMote like you could in Twilight Princess anymore. If you did that, you'd die in seconds. You have to observe your enemies' movements, and atttack when the time is right. The dungeons are incredible. They all have very clever puzzles and awesome bosses. You really have to use your brain if you ever want to beat this game. Kickass game, go buy it now :)â… Expand
  17. MasterColonico
    Nov 29, 2011
    8
    Nintendo did a really great job of bringing a new feel to the Legend of Zelda series, while still making it feel like a 'Zelda game'. Firstly, the graphics are remarkable. Some people have said that the textures look 'grainy' or 'blurry'. This is a correct statement. Some of the textures are grainy and blurry, but this isn't a negative thing. It is meant to look like a "paintingNintendo did a really great job of bringing a new feel to the Legend of Zelda series, while still making it feel like a 'Zelda game'. Firstly, the graphics are remarkable. Some people have said that the textures look 'grainy' or 'blurry'. This is a correct statement. Some of the textures are grainy and blurry, but this isn't a negative thing. It is meant to look like a "painting coming to life", so a lot of the textures are just a mesh of colours and brush strokes. It really looks nice though. Secondly, the story is an exciting adventure with a little romance between Link and Zelda - a first for the series. Lastly, Nintendo has veered away from some of the same old and boring traditions found in most games of the series. For example, there is not one torch puzzle found in the game. Also, the dungeons that Link encounters are not the same old Forest Temple, Water Temple, Fire Temple, etc. However, many elements of these traditional temples are present in the new dungeons, and even sometimes in combinations. Link is also able to dash, climb ledges, fly, upgrade items, and more. Based on this criteria alone, I could rate this game 10 out of 10. However, there are a few flaws. The biggest one I found was the unresponsiveness to the motions of the player. I may be trying to slash sideways, but the game would detect it as a slight diagonal. This gets frustrating when trying to defeat enemies that require you to swing your sword in a particular direction. Also, the controller would often have to be calibrated quite frequently, which caused disruption in the flow of the game. I haven't completed the entire game yet, but the adventure has been, so far, an epic one. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is no doubt one of the best games Nintendo has produced in years, and may be at equal quality with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Many will find this hard to believe, but once those people try it, they will certainly be hooked. Do yourself a favour and purchase a copy of this game if you already haven't. It's definitely worth it.… Expand
  18. swash
    Dec 1, 2011
    8
    Just finished game! So i feel ready to critique now. I have mixed opinions. Its a bit overrated wich is why i borrowed a wii and bought this game. Its a good game but not quite great. OCARINA HAS NOT MET ITS MATCH. However it has advancements in many ways. Gameplay is the best feature. The motion controls are way fun! but not perfect, but cool. They make the combat twice as good. TheJust finished game! So i feel ready to critique now. I have mixed opinions. Its a bit overrated wich is why i borrowed a wii and bought this game. Its a good game but not quite great. OCARINA HAS NOT MET ITS MATCH. However it has advancements in many ways. Gameplay is the best feature. The motion controls are way fun! but not perfect, but cool. They make the combat twice as good. The stamina meter is a huge plus! The visuals are strong as well ,in different, more artistic ways than ps3 or xbox. Perfect balance of ww and tp. And there is some great challenging puzzles in the game. Even for someone who has played a lot of zelda. So GREAT in all those areas! BUT there is several annoyances and shortcomings. The overall story was weak and disorganised. Sometimes hard to tell when a temple starts, seems ur doing poinless busy work before temples sometimes. Bosses and are Mostly good. Music is weak 4 zelda. Everything seems scattered and not so special. To many bugs not enough keys Overall 88 good not great… Expand
  19. Spartacus33765
    Dec 1, 2011
    9
    Skyward Sword definitely elevates at where it promises to fulfill. Want an engaging 1:1 sword fight? Well, this game has that in spades. At first, controls can be very difficult to get accustomed to, but once you do, you won't want to go back. Fantastic story, great music and visuals that fit the Wii's style.

    Unfortunately, I cannot warrant a 10/10 for some slight annoyances here and    Skyward Sword definitely elevates at where it promises to fulfill. Want an engaging 1:1 sword fight? Well, this game has that in spades. At first, controls can be very difficult to get accustomed to, but once you do, you won't want to go back. Fantastic story, great music and visuals that fit the Wii's style.

    Unfortunately, I cannot warrant a 10/10 for some slight annoyances here and there. Treasure finding with the recurring pop-up description should not exist. Also, swimming using the gyro = no fun. This should have been avoided (joystick would have worked just fine). Furthermore, as huge the world seems...it can also feel a bit too limited if you will. For example, instead of having to head to the sky just to head to another area (woods to mountain), why couldn't they have implemented a path from one region to the next without flying to it? Finally, after having completed the game, I also wish that there was more to do in terms of item collecting instead of just finding hearts. And what am I going to do with a ridiculous amount of rupees once I acquire them?

    All in all though, this is a quality game and I will be coming back to it like I do all the other Zelda's in the series.    … Expand
  20. dpv_costa
    Dec 1, 2011
    9
    As a Zelda since Ocarina of Time i believe this game is amazing. It's one of a kind The Legend of Zelda franchise. Great story, very smart and beautiful graphics considering Wii's capacity, good music, nice exploring of Link and Zelda's relationship, Skyloft is gorgeous, sword fight is something you wont be able to go back from, the dungeons are clever and gorgeous puzzles, hero mode makesAs a Zelda since Ocarina of Time i believe this game is amazing. It's one of a kind The Legend of Zelda franchise. Great story, very smart and beautiful graphics considering Wii's capacity, good music, nice exploring of Link and Zelda's relationship, Skyloft is gorgeous, sword fight is something you wont be able to go back from, the dungeons are clever and gorgeous puzzles, hero mode makes it all more challenging. Everything is great but i dont give this game a 10 simply because of the controls. I know i know, i praized the sword fighting and i stand by what i said but the Wii Motion Plus isnt ALWAYS accurate which is a same. This is my experience and i dont find it hard to believe something could be wrong with my wii remote since my wii is very old. But eventhough controllers do sometimes get out of syncrony, this never affect my gameplay severly, quite the opposite. Most of the times i wouldnt even realize it while sword fighting unless i used the beetle or something i needed to aim. And when they work...it's a whole new gaming experience...fantastic.
    Therefore i say this is a great Zelda game. I wont say it's the best but it might measure up to Ocarina of Time. PS: for those giving this game a 0 score...please, i know some of you might be dissapointed but at least give it a serious and considerable review and score. A zero score is what you would score a computer when it's not on.    … Expand
  21. AgentNick007
    Dec 3, 2011
    9
    What can I say? It's Zelda! You can't go wrong, but there is a few problems in the game. Like the motion controls. I like it but sometimes it can be a pain. You do a horizontal attack, it does a vertical. The shield can get in the way sometimes, people won't shut the hell up, but other then that the game is really enjoyable. The story is okay could have been better. Fi your sidekick youWhat can I say? It's Zelda! You can't go wrong, but there is a few problems in the game. Like the motion controls. I like it but sometimes it can be a pain. You do a horizontal attack, it does a vertical. The shield can get in the way sometimes, people won't shut the hell up, but other then that the game is really enjoyable. The story is okay could have been better. Fi your sidekick you can say, is very boring she has no personally and she talks like a robot. But the good thing is she not as annoying as the others in the Zelda games. Therefore it does big improvement but does have it's falls. It's still a great Zelda game and needs to be pick up.… Expand
  22. renaldowhat2
    Dec 16, 2011
    10
    This game rocks. Zelda never disappoints me. I had a great time figuring out puzzles and leveling up my items to help me. Never a dull moment here. Blah Blah Blah Blah. Awesome. Ble bleed blee.
  23. Aloei
    Dec 18, 2011
    10
    The long 5 year wait has finally come to an end and we finally have our hands on The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. I begin this review by stating that even if it took twenty years longer it would still be worth the wait. Sometimes it feels the wii was built so we could play this game, this game alone proves that motion controls are the way of the future, that nintendo was right. The 1 toThe long 5 year wait has finally come to an end and we finally have our hands on The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. I begin this review by stating that even if it took twenty years longer it would still be worth the wait. Sometimes it feels the wii was built so we could play this game, this game alone proves that motion controls are the way of the future, that nintendo was right. The 1 to 1 combat is just flawless, the enemies are challenging and require some thinking to defeat. And speaking of thinking the dungeons have the best puzzles the whole series has to offer, heck the entire game is the best the whole series has to offer. The story is fantastic, with unimaginable twists. By far the best wii game, the best zelda game, the best game ever to date.… Expand
  24. MetalMario2000
    Dec 19, 2011
    10
    This game is truly a masterpiece, it goes even farther, by saying that this is the definition of epic. The motion controls are truly excellent. The visuals are beautiful and truly exploit the Wii limited hardware. The orchestrated music is a very good one. The story is fantastic. With being said i can say this game is truly must-have for everyone
  25. vermithrax
    Dec 21, 2011
    10
    This game is amazing. Probably the best Zelda game in the series so far, and that's saying a lot. The new crafting system is simple yet fun. The controls add to the experience but the game would be amazing without them as well. The game truly has an epic feeling and it seems every location you go there are secret spots worth checking out. One minor gripe is that it takes a little long toThis game is amazing. Probably the best Zelda game in the series so far, and that's saying a lot. The new crafting system is simple yet fun. The controls add to the experience but the game would be amazing without them as well. The game truly has an epic feeling and it seems every location you go there are secret spots worth checking out. One minor gripe is that it takes a little long to get going out of the gate, but once it does it is completely addicting.… Expand
  26. jayman444
    Dec 22, 2011
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played, outstanding story, gameplay, presentation, controls, puzzles, music, everything!!!!!!!!!!!
    The game is also very long, my playthrough took about 45 hours while completing about half the side quests.
    If you don't have a Wii, go out and get one just for this game. And if you do have one, why aren't you playing this game now?!?!
  27. Seich
    Dec 22, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is awesome. The story is well narrated actually closing in gaps left by other Zelda games before. This is the beginning of everything and as such it is a brilliantly narrated and very well polished. After I finished the game I felt as if I had grown stronger as Link did and got really into the whole story. I loved the game and would definitely classify it as one of the best Zelda games made so far. It's truly a master piece and Nintendo truly outdid themselves.… Expand
  28. Xavier09
    Dec 23, 2011
    9
    An incredible addition to the Zelda series!

    This game really shakes up the old-school layout of the series; for some, this is a bad thing, but I loved it. Essentially, the 'overworld' areas have been done away with; this means that any new area you're going to explore is one riddled with puzzles and monsters. After you've gotten familiar with the layout of the area and you've scoured its    An incredible addition to the Zelda series!

    This game really shakes up the old-school layout of the series; for some, this is a bad thing, but I loved it. Essentially, the 'overworld' areas have been done away with; this means that any new area you're going to explore is one riddled with puzzles and monsters. After you've gotten familiar with the layout of the area and you've scoured its nooks and crannies for keys, it seems to open up, allowing you to traverse easily through without having to run through the same puzzles again and again. This change to Zelda not only stretches out the adventure (I beat it in 35 hours at a quick pace), but it makes it more enjoyable as well.

    Another improvement is the number of sidequests. Certainly there are more than Twilight Princess, but there aren't nearly enough as I would have liked; in total, there are about 15 or so. These sidequests are often fetch quests, but they're hardly annoying; and after all, everyone knows they're just filler, to establish something to do between dungeons. I enjoyed it, but there could have been more.

    One sidequest done very well was the scrap shop in the Bazaar; it wasn't quite a sidequest, but it was definitely optional. Essentially, you collect monster spoils from your adventures, give it to the mechanic, and he'll upgrade your equipment with the raw materials for some cash. You can upgrade nearly all your tools and weapons, increasing durability, power, range, capacity, etc. Overall, a really fantastic aspect to this game.

    There's also a wide variety of bugs (for catching) in addition to spoils, and they can be used to enhance potions and increase their potency; it's a nice addition, but it's not quite as impressively relevant as upgrading weapons. Bugs can also be sold to some creep in the Knight Academy, but again, they're not as great as spoils.

    Next, graphics; some may call them childish, but I adored them. The detail is amazing, particularly when soil sifts in with grass, like on the edge of a dirt path. Also, the interior of houses is beautiful, with plenty of geometry spread over the desks. I did not, however, like the faces particularly; in some scenes, the shadings all weird, and Link just looks strange. Sometimes text is blurry, especially when its bolded in red. Overall, Nintendo did the best they could do with the Wii's graphical power, and it really is beautiful.

    The plot in this game is good, too, but it's nothing special; Fi is on par with Navi and previous helpers, but neither compare to Midna from Twilight Princess. There are some very touching moments between Link and Zelda, but even so, the plot passes but doesn't seem to stand out anywhere.

    Finally, controls; these take a bit of getting used to, but after the first area you'll have broken them in and you'll really be getting into the Wii Motion Plus. It works very well, contrary to what others might say, and I love the way its implemented into the gameplay. For those who didn't know, the basic combat mechanics in 3D Zeldas (Z-targeting) are still intact, and they work great. I don't miss button-based swordplay. Nintendo said in a recent interview that they would be using motion controls in the next Zelda, so longtime Zelda fans might want to get used to them, because they might not be going away.

    Overall, Zelda: Skyward Sword is an epic, beautiful game with fantastic (10 / 10) gameplay. It doesn't quite excel plot-wise (8 / 10), but it definitely gets by. Graphics are beautiful (9 / 10), but nothing HD couldn't help. Controls, tied in very much so with gameplay, are the best yet (10 / 10). Sidequests are very nice, particularly upgrading equipment, but could be better (8 / 10). In conclusion, I'm going to have to say this is an epic game and deserves plenty of attention; 9 / 10.    … Expand
  29. tarodnet
    Dec 30, 2011
    8
    I'm sorry, but as a true fan of Zelda, I must say this with sorrow in my heart: Skyward Sword is not the perfect game the reviews are telling us.

    It's a good game, true, but it has many annoying elements that could be better: control more precise, more dungeons, less repetitive worlds, do not leave all the good stuff for the final moments, include day/night or include chickens! Anyway,    I'm sorry, but as a true fan of Zelda, I must say this with sorrow in my heart: Skyward Sword is not the perfect game the reviews are telling us.

    It's a good game, true, but it has many annoying elements that could be better: control more precise, more dungeons, less repetitive worlds, do not leave all the good stuff for the final moments, include day/night or include chickens!

    Anyway, the game is adictive and the story is amazing ;)    … Expand
  30. zeldaperson101
    Nov 11, 2012
    10
    THIS IS THE BEST GAME EVER!!!!!! Ya wanna know why cuz this game has a really good soundtrack, comedy, drama, action to make a videogame cake! I personally love this game it changed my life it got me all fluffy inside when i play it, it made me feel like i can do anything that is why my friends this game is a perfect 10.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Wii Game of 2011
1
#1 Most Discussed Wii Game of 2011
1
#1 Most Shared Wii Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 81 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 78 out of 81
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 81
  3. Negative: 0 out of 81
  1. Armchair Empire
    Feb 6, 2012
    100
    Overall, this is the best experience I've had playing a Zelda game since Ocarina of Time and I'd have to say they are pretty equal in my opinion. Either way, you won't be disappointed getting this game, it's a masterpiece.
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  2. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jan 19, 2012
    90
    New Zelda is the best game of whole series since the groundbreaking Ocarina of Time. It is a true masterpiece with uncompromising playability. [Christmas 2011]
  3. PALGN
    Jan 19, 2012
    95
    A magnificent homage for the 25th anniversary of one the biggest franchises in gaming, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword provides a compelling gaming and artistic showcase for the indefatigable potential of the medium as a whole, and a reason to have gaming as a hobby.
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