The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks -- Initial Impression.

Next up for me is the latest Zelda game for the Nintendo DSi, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. The game is the sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass. Hopefully the game won't carry over the faults of Phantom Hourglass. Mainly I'm hoping they don't repeat the disaster of the central dungeon you had to repeat over and over. The game has replaced the sailboat with a train, so there won't be a proper overworld yet again. I'm at least hoping this time around there will be something a little more eventful and interesting going on in the overworld. I'm also hoping that the mandatory stylus controls will be a little more on target this time around with fewer instances of failure. I'm also hoping that the dungeons and puzzles are a step up from those of Phantom Hourglass. Some challenge would be nice. I have played the game up through the first full dungeon and boss. From the time I've spent with it so far I can say that the graphics seem improved. While they're still slightly barren Nintendo DS 3D they come off as cleaner than those of Phantom Hourglass. The music seems of better quality as well. Again it appears to be offering a clearer sound, although that might be a product of the DSi's improved speakers. I'm also liking the pairing of Link and Zelda through the adventure. It's providing an interesting dynamic and at least initially offering up a very interesting and feisty Zelda. As always we'll see how it turns out in the end.