In this stage of Shigeru Miyamoto’s career, the legendary developer has morphed into a sort of kindly uncle figure for the video game world. And when he gets together with Eiji Aonuma, the Director of the Zelda franchise, the two of them get into a calming groove like a pair of old friends.
This genial relationship is at the center of the first gameplay video for The Legend of Zelda Wii U, which was unveiled during last night’s Game Awards. The two developers chatted while showing gamers just a taste of the game’s massive open world. Thankfully, Link is equipped with the Sailcloth (from Skyward Sword) and is able to call on Epona for assistance. Epona is now smart enough to find her own path through the world, deftly avoiding trees and allowing Link to aim and fire his bow from the saddle. And when its time to explore, Link has added a cool slow-motion dismount to his repertoire.
The Legend of Zelda Wii U will be released next year, likely towards the end of 2015.
