Nintendo’s conference during E3 may have been a big letdown, but that didn’t mean they couldn’t still find ways to entertain. With the Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses concert that was in town during its tour, it helped fill in that hole that Mario was attempting to keep for himself, and delivered with gusto.
While all of the main titles were represented in the music selection, from the very first Zelda game, to A Link to the Past, to Skyward Sword, the orchestral concert overall was dedicated to the more classic titles in the Zelda franchise, with a full choir joining in on select portions. A video display provided footage of the title whose music was being played at that time, matching the movements of the orchestra near perfectly, and providing some memorable moments of interest, such as the chicken rampages that can occur across numerous titles. More dramatic moments, such as the Link vs. Ganondorf fight from Ocarina of Time, are played with such tension and bravado, it stirs up memories of facing the Gerudo warrior all those years ago, as onlookers watched the hero struggle against his nemesis on the monitors. The lovely Zelda Williams playing host to the evening’s festivities solidified the event as a truly memorable occasion.
Despite the emphasis on the older entries, some of the more modern titles were also represented. Twilight Princess had it’s own segment, and Windwaker was also well portrayed. Skyward Sword, however, had a minimal presence. Which makes sense, since it was a more recent title to have come out, and while it is still a great game, the other additions to the Zelda history deserve some time in the spotlight as well.
Which is why it was a big surprise to the crowd when the final score was revealed (after several other “final” scores, designed to mess with the audience). Earlier in the show, Majora’s Mask was teased on the monitors after the Ocarina of Time segment, spurring curiosity in the audience. When the final act was revealed to be representing the teased game, the eruption of applause was deafening in the Greek Theater. Majora’s Mask is a title that doesn’t get as much praise as it deserves for its darker story, unique gameplay, and quirky characters, often being overshadowed by Ocarina of Time in regards to N64 era games. Seeing it being represented as the finale of an already spectacular concert was the icing on the proverbial cake.
Tickets are still available for the concert in other locations across the country, with some of the later dates going on sale today. If you’re a Legend of Zelda fan, then this is one event you don’t want to miss. The nostalgic factor, along with a great musical presentation from a talented group of musicians, are more than worth the price of admission.
