Wind Waker HD: Mixed thoughts

[2Quick]

Wind Waker was my first Zelda Game, and I've spent more hours than i'd like to admit playing it. I've always liked it, but I didn't greatly appreciate it until more recently. For me, it seems that the shift in game play from a structured, more linear-style adventure, to a more open world/non-linear style really went well with the message of the story. as you matured on you quest through out the ocean, you gradually gained more power and freedom through your control of the wind and of the cyclones. you weren't simply out to save your sister like in the beginning of the game, but you have matured into an altruistic hero intent on saving the world. with that came less guidance, and the game literally forced you to explore the world for hints. as soon as you started exploring, you could hear rumors of the "triumph forks" and the fish men would give you hints. part of the appeal of the game is that around 75%-80% mark the structure disappears and you are left on your own to finish solving the quest. thats powerful, challenging, and something we as gamers don't see enough these days.