Nintendo believes it can draw new gamers to the     Zelda series for the first time with upcoming DS release Spirit Tracks.

The game, which hit shelves on December 11th, is being backed by Nintendo with a wide-scale TV campaign – as the firm aims to capture ‘occasional gamers’ who have previously picked up Brain Training and Professor Layton.

“This is certainly a Zelda title that can be expanded out to a broader audience,” product manager Roger Langford (pictured) told MCV.

“Initially at launch we will be concentrating on our passionate Zelda fanbase, ensuring that they all know that the latest title is out there. Moving forward we can leverage the DS installed base and broaden the demographic out so that hopefully those that enjoy our titles such as Brain Training and Professor Layton will be exposed to the adventure and puzzle elements of Spirit Tracks.”

The entire Zelda series has sold more than 59 million units to date, according to Nintendo. The first Zelda was released on the NES in Europe in 1987.

I think what this means is will start to see a lot more advertisements then before.

That's pretty cool. I think Spirit Tracks looks to be better than Phantom Hourglass too, so I hope it does well.

Sounds good.

Maybe other games will get the same treatment.

I remember similar things being said around the launch of Phantom Hourglass. I hope this sells 5 million plus and beyond the dedicated Zelda fanbase.

I wonder how it will manage it. Phantom Hourglass seemed very accessible, will ST be more accessible somehow?

Well, if they're trying to reach the brain age/Prof. Layton crow, then I'm guessing there will be puzzles galore in this game.

Yeah!!

Could be. Anyway, for me, the Legend of Zelda:PH was too easy next the other tittles, specially 2D games. Maybe Zelda:ST are going to have the same difficult.

The people who are going to play Zelda ST or has played PH for the very first time, will found difficult any other Zelda tittle.

Oh my gawd casual zelda!

I was disappointed when I read through each comment and no one was negative. I miss my 2007 and I want it back. =(

Can't wait for this game. Just a few more days!