Multiplayer Zelda. It was a very exciting time back in 2004.
Of course, fans who picked up the Game Boy Advance port of A Link to the Past in 2002 had already been treated to the original Four Swords. I know I had, but it was more of an
That’s when Four Swords Adventures started showing up in the gaming magazines. Nintendo answered our prayers.
We’d never played anything like it — because at the time, there was nothing like it. The adventure was no longer restricted to the TV screen, as it was now spilling into our hands when the action moved to the Game Boy Advance. It was a hectic cocktail of co-operation and competition, with gorgeous 2D graphics, plenty of familiar faces, and puzzles that were only possible with a friend (or three) by your side.
The cost of entry is admittedly high if you want to engage in multiplayer: You need a GameCube, a copy of the game, and at least two of the following: GameCube controllers, Game Boy Advance systems and GameCube/Game Boy Advance link cables. This barrier is an understandable source of criticism for many, but the single-player is fun too!
Four Swords Adventures launched in Japan 15 years ago today. I feel that we don’t talk about this underrated gem nearly enough on Zelda Universe, so I’m delighted to announce that we’re going to be dedicating all of our columns to the game this week to celebrate.
If nothing else, reflecting on this game will help ease the pain of how old I now feel.
