Common Sense Media Review
By Common Sense Media
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
An excellent game with a great story and quest.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Play
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 7 parent reviews
Based on 35 kid reviews
Kids say that this game is a fantastic experience, blending humor, adventure, and engaging gameplay, making it suitable for all ages, particularly children aged 6 and up, though some puzzles may be challenging for younger players. The charming graphics, immersive storyline, and cartoonish violence are well-received, although a few moments may be too intense for very young kids, but overall, it's highly recommended for both new and seasoned gamers.
- engaging gameplay
- suitable for all ages
- charming graphics
- fun adventure
- mild violence
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's It About?
In LEGEND OF ZELDA: THE WIND WAKER, players assume the character of Link, a young boy who is celebrating his \"coming of age\" birthday. The day takes a disastrous turn when a giant bird swoops down and kidnaps Link's sister. At this point the adventure begins as players explore a massive oceanic world, charting new islands and meeting new characters while accomplishing smaller quests. Players eventually discover that the main source of evil is none other than the longtime enemy of Link -- Ganon, an evil sorcerer bent on destruction.
Is It Any Good?
The game consumes vast amounts of time and attention; it is worth the investment, since the game is so well designed and fun to play. There is much to explore, and many challenges to meet. Puzzles are varied -- for example, in one case the player may move blocks of stone in the correct order to clear the path, while in another the player may have to take "pictures" to solve a puzzle. The game is very creative and uses a variety of elements to support the theme of wind throughout the game.
Although exciting and fast-paced, the fighting is neither bloody nor realistic -- defeated enemy monsters disappear in a puff of purple smoke. Enemy characters could frighten younger players. Overall, Zelda: The Windwaker is an excellent game. An interesting story, vibrant imagery, and challenging quests that don't always focus on violence provide hours of entertainment.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the challenges in the game. Which kind of puzzles do you enjoy most? Why? What does this game have in common with other Zelda adventures? How is it different?
Game Details
- Platform : Nintendo GameCube
- Pricing structure :
- Available online? : Not available online
- Publisher : Nintendo
- Release date : August 8, 2003
- Genre : Role-Playing
- ESRB rating :
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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