Krish Parikh Week 13 - The Legend of You
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is undoubtedly one of the greatest video games of all time. Blending a rich open world experience with literary storytelling and innovative game mechanics, it captivated seventh grade Krish and continues to enthrall me to this day. I have logged over 100 hours into the game, and I cherish every moment that I have spent with it over the years.
The premise of the story lies in Link's two quests: the first to save the kingdom of Hyrule from evil forces and the second to recover his lost memories after awakening from a 100 year slumber. As you follow the game's storyline and explore the world of Hyrule, bit by bit, you begin to piece together Link's complex and moving history through cutscenes triggered as Link wanders into specific areas. With each new memory acquired in the game comes a greater understanding of not just Link's prior life, but the purpose behind his actions and the very quest he's on. Link's memories make him who he is.
The game, through the metaphor of an amnesiac protagonist, teaches the lesson that a life of meaning is enabled by the experiences which come before it. Like Link at the beginning of the game, an individual without memories lacks any real sense of belonging or direction.
Whenever I feel down or demotivated, I put on nostalgic music from my elementary school years, and I remember all that I have lived through and the people who have made me who I am. I come out of these reflective sessions with a surge of inspiration, and they further strengthen my resolve to overcome my obstacles in pursuit of my goals.
If you ever feel lost, I recommend wandering through your memories to find your way
Hey Krish!
ReplyDeleteThis was a really profound to way to view a video game. I would have never approached it like that and I find it really cool that you did. I'm not huge on Zelda or really any video games, but I instantly feel drawn to Link's character. Showing personal memories to take you through a game is super impactful and is sure to create a connection between a player and the game. I agree that memories play a huge role in motivation. You past memories and experiences shape your goals, which really does play a huge role in who you are. Now that I am thinking about it, your memories define you as a person and tell your story. This was a really cool analysis, thanks for sharing:)
Hi Krish,
ReplyDeleteAlthough I didn’t have a Nintendo Switch at the time, I remember when Breath of the Wild was released. My friends were all super hyped over it, and I could not fathom why. Seeing YouTube videos of gameplay made me realize how immersive the experience was, especially when considering the level of detail that the developers put into a Switch game (Switch games were a laughingstock back then). I’ve been feeling really unmotivated lately, and I’ve constantly been trying to remember a time where I actually felt the incentive to accomplish something worthwhile. Maybe it’s just a mental block, but I cannot bring myself to physically do anything anymore. It’s like I’ve lost a bit of my mojo. I’ll take your advice into account, thanks.
Sincerely,
Sean Wang
I remember one Morrison interview that I was listening to—in it, she discusses this idea of how misery opens a window of time as if you suddenly realize that there is just so much empty space. And so, I began thinking about my parents. What is so wrong about living a life for the minute joys that it brings? I feel like mom has stored something inside of me and my younger brother—a sort of aspiration and anticipation that's unmovable. There was a point in her life that was stagnant and it was when she was alone in the U.S. taking care of me and my brother. At that time we were young, unable to help and unappreciative of her efforts. And I just wonder, what is the meaning she derived from that time? And how did it change her? To me, mom has always been a sort of pillar at home—someone who has found her place and her way. She has not changed much besides the natural course of aging. I guess I think having memories gives us a chance to redeem the wasted time.
ReplyDeleteHi Krish,
ReplyDeleteAlthough I know nothing about the game you discussed, besides the fact that Zelda is one of the most captivating female video game characters I've seen, it was interesting to read your post. Your post also got me thinking about trips down memory lanes, throwback music comes to my head. Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Miley Cyrus, and moments when I would watch their music videos like I watch Netflix today remind me of my childhood. I occasionally listen to my throwback playlist on Spotify to reminisce.
Hey Krish, I have not played Zelda yet, but it has intrigued me for some time. I think it was really clever of the creators to give Link more character as his memories come back. That is truly how memory works. I do agree that memories can help a person find their way, but at the same time it can be quite dangerous, as spiraling into the void of nostalgia can detach them from reality (I've been in a similar situation and it's not fun trying to get out). I now feel inspired to check out the world of Hyrule! Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteHi Krish,
ReplyDeleteFor anyone who has played the game, they know that Breath of the Wild is the best game that has ever been created. It is very interesting how we learn about Link as the game progresses (if you collect the memories, that is). I went straight to ending the game, and after that I decided to collect the memories as well. These memories are truly interesting.
On another note, I am trying to beat the game in master mode, but the dlc is way too hard for me! You should get the dlc and try it out.
Sincerely,
Vivan Waghela
Hi Krish,
ReplyDeleteIt's really interesting how you related a video game to memory. Mentioning Breath of the Wild triggers a childhood memory of mine, when I first heard of the Legend of Zelda. I originally thought that the main character was called Zelda since that was the name of the series. It seems that your blog about visiting childhood memories triggered me to visit my childhood memories. What a coincidence! The lack of memories does indeed change a person, but it doesn't completely change their personality. At least part of the personality is biological.
Sincerely,
Raymond Yu
Hi Krish,
ReplyDeleteAlthough I myself have never played Breath of the Wild, the gameplay and music totally strike a heartstring within me similar to that of genuine nostalgia. The game itself is so beautiful, I've always been a sucker for open world games that are environmentally tranquil and pretty. I think the fact that Link himself has no memories adds to the beauty of the game. It feels almost as if you, the player, are exploring his surroundings along with Link. The music also adds phenomenal value to the game; the nostalgia I feel from the gentle piano is irrational considering I myself have never even played the game.
Yi-Kuan C.
Hi Krish,
ReplyDeleteI did happen to play Breath of the Wild, but I wasn't able to finish it. I am prone to motion sickness, so it only takes an hour or two for me to get sick after playing a third person or first person video game. Although I was not able to finish it, I was able to experience a part of the story. I saw the memories that Link had remembered and I felt like it was a really cool way to tell a story. It felt more like a "show don't tell" type of story, which is something that some writers tend to forget. I agree that nostalgia always motivates me. When I remember where I came from and compare it to where I am, I feel as if I could do anything I put my mind to.