Shacknews Best Strand Game of 2024 – The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

As a seasoned gamer with over three decades under my belt, I can confidently say that Echoes of Wisdom has left an indelible mark on the gaming landscape, particularly within the Zelda franchise and the strand genre as a whole.

It could be pointed out that many Zelda games share similarities with thread games. The land of Hyrule often finds itself fragmented and corrupted by Ganon’s malevolent influence, and Link is usually the one tasked with restoring it. However, Echoes of Wisdom elevates this concept significantly, establishing it not just as one of the standout thread-style games of 2024, but also as a remarkable addition to the Zelda series.

In the realm of Hyrule governed by Echoes of Wisdom, I find myself grappling with the unsettling truth that it’s plagued by chasms that siphon people, even Link himself, replacing them with malevolent doppelgängers. Meanwhile, the original versions are banished to an enigmatic rift dimension to wither away. With such a dire situation at hand, it’s no surprise that Zelda must step up to restore order. Fortunately, a tiny ally named Tri and its Echoes-harnessing power are there to lend Zelda a helping hand as she mends the fractured pieces of Hyrule.

Strand games aren’t just about repairing a damaged universe; they’re also about forging bonds among people and promoting unity during your journeys. Zelda doesn’t merely conquer dungeons and battle Ganon’s troops. She also safeguards the very city that Link hails from in his absence, seals fissures threatening to engulf the world, and even resolves disagreements among diverse cultures. In fact, in one of the earliest games featuring both the ancient (river) and modern (sea) Zora tribes, she actively participates in their dispute and brings an end to a devastating feud.

Some might consider “Strand Games” to be frivolous. However, we believe they serve as outstanding demonstrations of gaming narratives, allowing players to improve the game world, fostering unity among characters and offering unforeseen adventures. This year, Echoes of Wisdom stands out as a game that embodies these qualities more effectively than any other, which is why it’s our Shacknews Pick for the Best Strand Game of 2024.

Be sure to read over the rest of the Shacknews Awards in our Year of the Games: 2024 feature.

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2024-12-26 20:27