Next Legend of Zelda to use new In-Game "Realism Engine"
An announcement from Nintendo of America has revealed that the next Zelda will be more realistic than ever before. Already boasting advanced graphics and control schemes, programmers are now working on making the gameplay more "real".
"We've seen the fans reaction to the Wind Waker, and most of the time they're complaints about the cel-shading. So we've taken the step to ensure that this game has the best graphics of the series. But what we've also done is change the game engine, so that the whole environment is as realistic as can be."
The new realistic engine calculates and executes functions that Link would normally do, if he was living in the real world. Should Link run for a long time, fatigue will set in and Link will collapse. If Link runs full speed into a wall, he'll rebound and be out cold. If Link stretches with his sword or jumps too far, he'll sprain a muscle.
The biggest and likely most noticeable realistic feature is the "life" engine. Anytime Link takes damage, he'll heal at the same rate in real life. If he takes to much damage, he'll fall down and refuse to move. If he gets sick (which can come from too much swimming or standing outside in the rain for hours) he will be sluggish and much less aware of his surroundings.
"We've seen how Link getting stabbed in the stomach and losing only one heart isn't really realistic. (no pun intended) So now we've made it so when Link dies, you're done. The game is over and you can't continue on. This is to reinforce the fact that Link not is some kind of indestructible, machine. You lose all your hearts. Game Over. You fall in a pit. Game Over. You accidentally kiss Ruto, BOOM. Game Over."
And so far they are sticking to that plan. Programmers are testing a new controller that takes a sample of your DNA. Once you lose, your DNA is matched up to a list, and the Gamecube locks up.
Fans are seeing how this could be a problem, as losing their character means a Game Over. Permanently. "I hope they get rid of that feature," stated one anonymous fan. "The real world is already real enough. I don't want to start playing the game, and have to worry about tripping on a rock, or falling in a pit. The game should just stick with the graphics."
The release date for the Legend of Zelda is still scheduled for Q2 2005. No information on wiether the game will include scheduled meal times and a bathroom meter, but programmers are "leaving that door open"
Written by Darth Citrus
