Starting from the opening cutscene in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, Link’s primary objective is nearly always in view. As Link journeys to recover his strength by rescuing the spirits of the champions, the malice of Calamity Ganon can be seen from nearly every corner of the map as it encompasses Hyrule Castle. After conquering the four Divine Beasts, Link crosses the threshold of Ganon’s stronghold and is welcomed by a chorus that is equally nostalgic and foreboding.
Upon entering the decrepit remains of the kingdom’s capital, Link is greeted with the apprehensive and oddly familiar tones of a pipe organ. Each step of the journey is a premonition that is reminiscent of ascending the Hyrule Castle staircase to face Ganondorf in Ocarina of Time. As Link progresses to the heart of the ruined fortress, the power of the wind instruments gradually intensifies. However, a new instrument and corresponding euphony are also added: the alto flute playing an alternate version of “Zelda’s Lullaby.”
As the Hero of the Wild enters the throne room and vanquishes the Scourge of Hyrule, I could not help but reflect on the musical crescendo. Although evocative of earlier games in the franchise, “Hyrule Castle” is still unique. The pipe organ strain portrays the malice of Ganon’s incomplete form, but the softer, gentle notes of the alto flute represent Zelda’s ambitious struggle to contain the beast. These dueling melodies depict the timeless struggle between good and evil throughout the series.
Enter the talented musician by the name of Tim de Man. Proficient with the widest variety of instruments, Tim specializes in crafting unique renditions of modern and classic video game covers. In his version of “Hyrule Castle,” Tim pays homage to the original while simultaneously infusing elements of Celtic culture.
The original version of the song begins with a strong introduction of pipe organ notes; Tim, however, adopts a more subtle approach. After a light prelude of percussions and strings, the avid instrumentalist elects to focus initially on Zelda’s allegory rather than the antagonist’s. Characterized by higher-pitched notes from a recorder, the representation of Zelda’s struggle is more pronounced than the standard version.
As the recorder’s melody reaches the first chorus, Tim introduces dichotomy by adding bagpipes that represent Ganon’s leitmotif. While this creative choice is much more subdued than the original, the woodwind instrument offers a slightly darker offset to the recorder’s whimsical tone.
As the chorus transitions to the bridge, Tim creates a harmonious acme of musical prowess with the insertion of Celtic vocals. This canto of human voice embeds a noble hue that carries the theme to its natural conclusion: an abbreviated recorder outro that is reminiscent of Zelda and Link’s triumph over Dark Beast Ganon.
Although the music in Breath of the Wild is more subtle than prior entries in the series, Tim’s rendition of “Hyrule Castle” is among my favorites. Be sure to check out his YouTube channel for interpretations of more Legend of Zelda themes. Enjoy!
