The Legend of Zeldaseries has spawned many titles through multiple generations, each beloved for different reasons. Fans likely expect the series to introduce something to the catalog of games released inthe launch year of the Switch 2, and given the successZeldahas brought Nintendo, that possibility is high. However, considering howThe Legend of Zeldaseries isn’t afraid of trying something new, the next entry may have a gameplay formula that’s different enough that it could pique the interest of those outside long-time supporters. Were that to be the case, perhaps Nintendo should consider something akin to the style ofSuper Mario RPG.
Despite the many different games inThe Legend of Zeldaseries, it has yet to tackle the turn-based RPG genre. This is genuinely surprising, especially when considering the series has all the resources necessary to do so.Super Mario RPGresonating so well with long-time Nintendo fans - mainly because of how well it used characters from an established franchise in a new gameplay format - is all the proof needed that the same approach can and should be taken withThe Legend of Zelda.
Why Super Mario RPG Would Be the Sensible Choice for Inspiring a Turn-Based Zelda RPG
A futureZeldagame could go completely off the railsand find new avenues of success if it decides to go the turn-based RPG route, and it’s likely to do especially well if it borrows what madeSuper Mario RPGso popular. While there are many reasons why that particular title would make the perfect point of inspiration, a notable aspect to consider borrowing is its art style.Super Mario RPG’s chibi-like design helped the Nintendo characters feel natural within a turn-based setting, and given thatZeldagames such asEchoes of Wisdomand the remake ofLink’s Awakeningclosely resemble that chibi style, a hypothetical turn-based entry keeping this visual approach would feel natural. So long as Nintendo takes note of howSuper Mario RPGmanaged to mesh its unique art with its other elements, the title would be off to a good start.
What Allows the Legend of Zelda to Tackle the Turn-Based RPG Genre
Continued innovation is one of thethings fans will want to see when it comes to futureZeldagames, and the turn-based RPG route fits the bill. While it can’t copy literally everything fromSuper Mario RPG, that won’t be an issue, as the franchise has what it needs to tackle the genre, such as:
AZeldagame similar tohow theMariofranchise has tackled the RPG genreis long overdue, and many fans would likely be interested in it if it were to be developed. Nintendo should strongly consider the opportunity, as it’s a way for the franchise to grow and take on a new direction that will help it remain a staple of the video gaming industry.
