What was Skyward Sword inspired by?

What was Skyward Sword Inspired By?

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is the sixteenth main installment of the beloved Zelda series, developed by Nintendo. Released in 2011 for the Wii console, the game introduced a new motion-control system and a unique art style that set it apart from its predecessors. But what inspired the development of Skyward Sword? Let’s take a closer look at the game’s creative process and the elements that influenced its creation.

Multiple Earlier Zelda Games

One of the primary inspirations for Skyward Sword was the earlier games in the Zelda series. The game’s director, Eiji Aonuma, has stated that the development team drew inspiration from the series’ history, including The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask. These games’ 3D gameplay, puzzles, and storytelling elements were incorporated into Skyward Sword, making it a spiritual successor to the classic titles.

Impressionist Art Style

Skyward Sword’s art style, characterized by its vibrant colors and impressionist-inspired visuals, was also influenced by the game’s developers. The team aimed to create a unique visual identity for the game, drawing inspiration from the works of artists such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. The game’s visuals were designed to evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity, making the player feel like they are exploring a fantastical world.

Shigeru Miyamoto’s Love of Impressionism

Shigeru Miyamoto, the legendary creator of the Zelda series, has a deep appreciation for impressionist art. His love of impressionism influenced the game’s art style, with the team aiming to capture the soft, dreamy quality of the impressionist movement. Miyamoto’s involvement in the game’s development ensured that the art style was authentic and true to his vision.

Polytheistic World

The world of Skyward Sword is characterized by a polytheistic society, with multiple gods and goddesses worshipped by different cultures. This concept was inspired by the real-world mythologies of ancient civilizations, such as Greek and Norse mythology. The game’s world is rich in lore and mythology, with each culture having its own unique gods and goddesses.

Buddhist and Christian Influences

The game’s story and characters were also influenced by Buddhist and Christian themes. The character of Zelda, for example, is inspired by the legend of the Virgin Mary, while the game’s themes of sacrifice and redemption are reminiscent of Christian mythology. The game’s Buddhist influences are evident in its depiction of the afterlife and the concept of reincarnation.

Table: Inspiration Sources

Conclusion

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword was inspired by a wide range of sources, from the earlier games in the series to the world of art and mythology. The game’s unique art style, inspired by impressionism, and its polytheistic world-building set it apart from other games in the series. The game’s themes of sacrifice and redemption, inspired by Buddhist and Christian mythology, added depth and complexity to the story. Overall, Skyward Sword is a testament to the creative vision of its developers and the rich history of the Zelda series.