Cadence of Hyrule is a refreshing fantasy adventure title in the Zelda mythos. The game features classic mechanics from Zelda titles and of course, a breathtaking soundtrack just like any other game in the franchise.
Getting into the rhythm
Apparently, the name Cadence of Hyrule suggests that this isn’t a pure Zelda game. In fact, it’s like a sequel to Crypt of the NecroDancer, a title back in 2015 that featured amazing action-roguelike from Brace Yourself Games.
That being said, Cadence of Hyrule still brings upon the essence of Zelda – a perfect version that pays tribute to the original source while still follows its new directions.
Combat mode: ON
In Cadence of Hyrule, you should pay attention to the background tunes. On your Switch’s D-pad, tap any of four cardinal directions in alignment with the ongoing beat. Your hero (who could be Zelda, Link, or Cadence from NecroDancer) will shuffle towards that direction, attacking any enemies blocking the path.
Generally speaking, Cadence of Hyrule centers around combat and combat only. It's extremely crucial to study your enemies, acknowledging their movement pattern and attempt to counter-attack. Some foes will strike diagonally while others are only vulnerable through the sides. In addition, some enemies possess area-of-effect attacks that are a bit trickier to dodge. Meanwhile, some others will utilize their projectiles to attack from a safe distance.
Deadly collectibles
Along your adventure, you’ll obtain new items and weapons to help with the exploration. As a matter of fact, Cadence of Hyrule offers a massive amount of collectibles, much more than in any past Zelda titles. The range of weapons and armors to collect is insane, yet learning how to utilize them is a completely different thing.
Equip yourself with some broadswords, shortswords, and flails to take on adventures. You’ll lose everything if you die, so make sure your deaths count stays low.
A challenge to overcome
One more thing, don't let the game’s cute art style fool you: Cadence of Hyrule is not easy! It might be a bit frustrating to play the game at the beginning. Why? Because you’ll constantly be facing different kinds of enemies with different attack patterns. You’ll need to study them as you encounter them in battles.
It might be rather frustrating at first, especially if you're used to the way Nintendo usually holds your hands in the early part of the Zelda games. But that's the point: Despite the Zelda inspiration, Cadence of Hyrule is a roguelike game at heart. You'll die an awful lot, but with every death, you'll learn something, and with every run, your power goes up, eventually allowing you to overcome the challenge.
Also, it's worth mentioning that for all the roguelike underpinnings, you'll still be able to explore this vibrant world, solve ingenious puzzles, overcome themed dungeons and fearsome bosses, all the while following a silly fantasy story. You know, just like any true Zelda game.
And that's the true genius of Cadence of Hyrule. It manages to be both a worthy Zelda game and something else entirely different at the same time. Once you catch its rhythm, you'lI surely appreciate its brilliance.
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