The wisest princess in Hyrule has come to save the day in The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom. Yes, Link will have to wait, because it's all about Zelda in The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.

Echoes of Wisdom wastes no time in getting its story going. As soon as you start the game, you’re thrown into the realm of Hyrule as, surprisingly, Link! Just like in the original games, you’ll hack and slash your way to Ganon and defeat him in a brutal one-on-one fight. While this would normally be a triumphant victory, today is just the beginning. Link is captured by the rifts and Zelda must pick up the pieces and save Hyrule from destruction.

Starting the game as Link is a wonderful contrast to actually playing as Zelda. It’s one of my favorite narrative components of the game, as it emphasizes that Link is given the Triforce of Courage, while Zelda has the Triforce of Wisdom. She does have the ability to perform some of the hack-and-bash techniques we know and love from playing as Link, but ultimately Zelda will always have to rely on her wits rather than her physical prowess (indicated by her energy bar). This is a recurring theme throughout the story. If she wants something or needs to gain access to a place, she must find a way to get the people in control of that item or area to agree. This includes finding secret entrances to caves, helping people deal with their feelings in healthy ways, and using the Echoes she’s collected to provide a pleasant resolution to each quest.

In a way, the way the story plays out is representative of her identity as the princess of Hyrule. As a member of the royal family, she must use the kingdom’s resources and people wisely to keep them safe and happy. She doesn’t just show up and solve a situation; she listens, analyzes the situation, and finds the best possible solution with what she has. At the same time, the way she solves problems always teaches something important to those she helps. This element makes the story more engaging and makes it feel like a true Zelda game instead of her just being a female version of Link.