Synopsis

Link returns to Nintendo’s handheld in Spirit Tracks, leaving his favoured boat transportation behind in favour of voyaging by train.

The Legend of Zelda - Phantom Hourglass was Link’s first foray onto Nintendo’s DS, transferring the landmark series’ strengths onto the portable console by using the hand drawn art style of The Wind Waker. Following closely in its footsteps, Spirit Tracks utilizes many of the same tricks, once more allowing players to control all the action on screen with the Nintendo DS touch screen and stylus. Phantom Hourglass’s boat-based transport has now been replaced by a tweaked train service, allowing players to engage in battles and puzzle-solving as they travel the vast lands of Hyrule.

Joining Link during his numerous dungeon quests is a new Phantom ally, a huge suit of armour that will respond to the player’s commands, helping to solve puzzles and cross otherwise treacherous obstacles. As with Phantom Hourglass, players can use the touch screen to their advantage by making notes or tracing weapon paths during combat.

Much like Link’s previous handheld title, The Legend of Zelda - Spirit Tracks manages to capture the art style and atmosphere of classic Zelda titles, its innovative DS functions adding a new edge to gameplay.