Nintendo Is Asking Zelda Fans Some Intriguing Questions
The Legend of Zelda franchise is a long and winding series that has transformed as technology evolved, influencing Nintendo and the game industry in general. After all, the series' eternally reincarnating protagonist Link is the third-most popular Nintendo character in Japan, and the company popularized the use of battery-powered cartridges to create game save files with the original Legend of Zelda. Without the Zelda franchise, the game industry might not be where it is today, and Nintendo has created a series of polls to find out what you love about the series.
Recently, the Nintendo of America Twitter account released three different polls that ask Zelda fans three important questions. The first was whether you prefer 2D or 3D Zelda games. Next, Nintendo asked what ocarina tune you like relaxing to. The third question was whether fans prefer to save Hyrule with a bow and arrow or a sword. Interestingly, the poll clarifies that 2D games aren't necessarily the older titles, just those with a top-down perspective. In other words, Nintendo is clumping 2.5D Zelda titles in with true 2D games.
Furthermore, in an unfortunate turn, the ocarina song question only includes four options: "Zelda's Lullaby," "Epona's Song," "Song of Time," and "Sun's Song." Many commenters have been quick to voice their frustration and remind Nintendo that "Saria's Song" is the one true supreme ocarina tune.
As the vote tally currently stands, most gamers prefer 3D Zelda games, would rather sit back and listen to "Zelda's Lullaby," and enjoy defeating Moblins and Lizalfos with a sword. The polls will remain open for two more days as of writing this article, so these leads might change.
The first poll post (the one that asks if gamers favor 2D or 3D Zelda games) promises the results will be discussed in the next Nintendo Power Podcast, but some participants question why Nintendo posted the questions in the first place. One popular theory is they are for market research. Depending on poll numbers, Nintendo could use the results to justify more titles like Link's Awakening for the Nintendo Switch. The same could also potentially apply to the other polls. An interest in archery could result in future Zelda games featuring more bow-play, and the ocarina song survey might radically alter upcoming game soundtracks.
Whether the Twitter ballots actually have any impact on the Legend of Zelda franchise remains to be seen. You only have a few more days to make your voice heard, and who knows what could happen? Maybe you can give 2D Zelda titles a bit more of a popularity boost.