We asked ChatGPT to make a Zelda game

Okay, this is pretty epic...

Okay, I admit I’m having way too much fun with ChatGPT right now. Possibilities and overall concepts are endless. Tweaks and turns that inspiring, and if anything may generate some of the greatest, most bold ideas that will undoubtedly be used for gaming in the near future. I wouldn’t be surprised if a development studio hasn’t already come up with the idea to generate an entire game on ChatGPT, then actually begin creating it. So it’s no secret that I’m very, very excited for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. I’m literally counting down the days – 80 days as of writing this – to its release. But what if we were to ask ChatGPT to create a Zelda game? An original theme, and ask it for Ganon to be the most formidable version of any iteration seen before? “The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Ganon” is the title, and that already had my juices flowing.

Concept Art (also generated by AI)

So once again, here’s my initial query and ChatGPT’s response;

Can you create a concept for The Legend of Zelda where Ganon's many forms are separate entities?

Dash Writes

Certainly! Here's a concept for a new version of The Legend of Zelda where Ganon's many forms are separate entities:

In this version of the game, Ganon has been resurrected yet again, but this time his power is so great that he has been able to split himself into multiple entities. Each of these entities has taken on one of Ganon's many forms from past Zelda games, such as his human form, his pig form, and his beast form.

The player takes on the role of Link, who must travel throughout the land of Hyrule to defeat each of these Ganon forms and weaken the overall power of the evil lord. Each Ganon form will have its own unique strengths and weaknesses, as well as its own specific location within the game world. As the player defeats each of the Ganon forms, they will gain access to new abilities and items that will help them in their quest to ultimately defeat Ganon once and for all. Some of these abilities might include new sword techniques, magical spells, or even the ability to transform into various creatures to navigate the game world.

Throughout the game, the player will also encounter various NPCs who will provide clues and information about the various Ganon forms, as well as offer side quests that will allow the player to further explore the game world and uncover new secrets.

Ultimately, the player will need to defeat all of the Ganon forms and collect powerful artifacts that will enable them to confront Ganon himself. The final battle will take place in a massive fortress, where the player will face off against Ganon in his true form, using all of the skills and abilities they have gained throughout the game to emerge victorious.

Overall, this version of The Legend of Zelda would offer a new twist on the classic formula by splitting Ganon into multiple forms, each of which would offer unique challenges and opportunities for the player to explore and grow their skills.

ChatGPT

What would be the title?

Dash Writes

How about "The Legend of Zelda: Ganon's Reckoning"? This title reflects the idea of Ganon being split into multiple forms and the player needing to face a reckoning with each one in order to ultimately defeat the evil lord. Additionally, the use of "reckoning" in the title adds a sense of urgency and high stakes to the game, emphasizing the importance of the player's quest to save the land of Hyrule.

ChatGPT

No. I don’t like this.

Not feeling that one. Have another in mind?

Dash Writes

I see, no problem. How about "The Legend of Zelda: Shadow of Ganon"? This title suggests that Ganon's many forms are lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike at any moment, and adds a sense of suspense to the game. The word "shadow" could also imply that each form is only a fraction of Ganon's true power, making the player's journey even more daunting as they face multiple powerful foes in order to reach the ultimate showdown with the dark lord himself.

ChatGPT

Wow, that’s terrible. Try again.

Too on the nose, anything else?

Dash Writes

Of course, how about "The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Ganon"? This title plays off the idea that each of Ganon's many forms is an "echo" of his true self, suggesting that they are only shadows of his true power. Additionally, the word "echoes" evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, hinting at the secrets that the player will uncover as they journey through the game world to face each of Ganon's forms. Overall, this title captures the essence of the game's concept while maintaining a sense of mystery and intrigue.

ChatGPT

Yes. Yes. Only hell yes. This is perfect. Love the idea of going up against multiple forms of the devious Gerudo King, and have his many forms referred to as Echoes. The proposition being that Ganon has been dead for eons, but this is his bold return to take back what he believes is his.

That's the one! Could you give me details on the aesthetics of Hyrule in this game?

Dash Writes

For this game, the aesthetic of Hyrule would be dark and foreboding, with a sense of danger lurking around every corner. The world would be shrouded in darkness, with overcast skies and dim lighting adding to the ominous atmosphere.

The landscape of Hyrule would be dominated by rocky crags, deep forests, and murky swamps, all of which would be filled with creatures and obstacles that would challenge the player. Ruins and ancient structures would also be scattered throughout the land, adding a sense of history and mystique to the world.

The towns and settlements in Hyrule would be few and far between, with most of the inhabitants living in small, fortified villages to protect themselves from the dangers of the wilds. These villages would be made up of simple, rustic buildings, with little in the way of luxury or decoration.

The dungeons in the game would be especially dark and foreboding, with dim lighting, eerie music, and a sense of danger lurking around every corner. The puzzles and obstacles within the dungeons would be more complex and challenging than those in the overworld, requiring the player to use all of their skills and abilities to progress.

Overall, the aesthetic of the game would be designed to convey a sense of danger and unease, emphasizing the high stakes of the player's quest to defeat Ganon and save Hyrule from darkness and destruction.

ChatGPT
Concept art. Link (left) & Zelda.

Can I get a description of Zelda's appearance?

Dash Writes

Certainly! In this version of The Legend of Zelda, Zelda would likely be portrayed as a regal and elegant princess, with a strong and independent demeanor that reflects her role as a leader in the fight against Ganon.

Zelda's appearance would likely be characterized by long, flowing hair in a shade of blonde or light brown, with a crown or tiara adorning her head to symbolize her royal status. Her outfit would be a flowing gown or robes, possibly with a cape or shawl to add to her regal appearance.

In terms of her physical features, Zelda would likely have a slender and graceful build, with delicate facial features and bright, expressive eyes that convey her intelligence and determination. She would be a symbol of hope and strength in the game, offering guidance and support to Link as he battles the forces of darkness.

Overall, Zelda's appearance would be designed to convey a sense of regal authority, grace, and strength, emphasizing her importance as a key figure in the game's story and the fight against Ganon.

ChatGPT

No, no. None of that. I’m of the belief we’re past the damsel in distress era of Zelda. She’s a badass in her own right. So let’s make her one.

Could we make Zelda look like a badass warrior?

Dash Writes

Absolutely! In this version of The Legend of Zelda, we can reimagine Zelda's appearance as a skilled and powerful warrior, rather than a traditional princess in distress.

Zelda's outfit would likely be more practical and battle-ready, with armor and weapons to reflect her status as a warrior. Her hair might be pulled back into a ponytail or braid to keep it out of her way during combat, and her crown or tiara could be replaced with a helmet or headband.

In terms of her physical features, Zelda would likely be portrayed as strong and athletic, with a muscular build and a no-nonsense attitude. Her facial features would be more angular and defined, with piercing eyes that convey her determination and strength of character.

Zelda's transformation into a badass warrior would add a new dynamic to the game, with the player relying on her not just for her guidance and support, but also for her fighting prowess and strategic mind in the battle against Ganon.

ChatGPT

What is Link's appearance in this game?

Dash Writes

In this version of The Legend of Zelda, Link's appearance would be designed to reflect his role as a powerful and skilled hero. He would likely be depicted as a youthful and energetic character, with a strong and athletic build.

Link's iconic green tunic would still be a part of his outfit, but it might be designed to look more functional and practical, with added armor pieces for protection in combat. He would also have a belt or satchel for carrying items and weapons, and sturdy boots for traversing the game's terrain.

Link's hair would likely be styled in a practical manner, perhaps a short or medium-length cut that would not get in the way during combat. His facial features would be defined and chiseled, emphasizing his determination and strength of character.

In terms of weaponry, Link would have his iconic Master Sword and Hylian Shield, along with various other weapons and tools to aid him on his journey. He would be designed to look capable of wielding these weapons with great skill, and would be depicted in various action poses to emphasize his fighting abilities.

Overall, Link's appearance in this game would be designed to reflect his status as a legendary hero, with a practical and functional outfit that emphasizes his strength, agility, and fighting skills.

ChatGPT
Bruh, this slaps so hard.

So with Ganon being set for a multi-act, I would expect ChatGPT to come up with something epic for his grand finale. It did not disappoint.

What would Ganon's numerous appearances be?

Dash Writes

- Ganondorf: The classic, humanoid form of Ganon, with his signature red hair and green armor. He wields a variety of weapons, including swords, magic, and brute strength.

- Puppet Ganon: A monstrous, mechanical form of Ganon, with various appendages and weapons that can be controlled by the player.

- Calamity Ganon: A form of Ganon that represents the chaos and destruction he brings to the world. He could be a more monstrous and primal form, with the ability to unleash devastating attacks and summon minions to do his bidding.

- Ganon, King of Darkness: A powerful form of Ganon that embodies his mastery of dark magic and evil power. He could be a more sorcerous form, with the ability to conjure dark spells and illusions to confound the player.

- False God Ganon: A self-professed deity who claims to be a bringer of peace and order, but in reality is a cruel and oppressive ruler who demands blind worship from his followers. He could be a more demonic, godlike form with the ability to manipulate minds and spread chaos and destruction.

ChatGPT
Oh My Goodness. False. God. Ganon.

Can we come up with a campaign narrative?

Dash Writes

The game opens with a scene of a ruined and desolate Hyrule, where False God Ganon and his minions have ruled with an iron fist for centuries. The player takes on the role of Link, a warrior who has been awakened from a deep sleep to fulfill an ancient prophecy and vanquish the tyrannical rule of False God Ganon. Accompanying Link on his journey is Princess Zelda, a warrior in her own right and a key figure in the resistance against False God Ganon.

At the beginning of the game, Link and Zelda must navigate the ruins of Hyrule and gather the strength and allies needed to face False God Ganon. Along the way, they encounter various resistance groups fighting against False God Ganon's minions and free prisoners who are being held captive. Link and Zelda will also discover ancient artifacts and weapons that can help them in their quest.

As the players progress through the game, they uncover more about the history of Hyrule and False God Ganon's rise to power. They also encounter various forms of Ganon's minions, such as puppet Ganons and monstrous beasts created by Calamity Ganon.

The final showdown takes place in False God Ganon's stronghold, where Link and Zelda face the demon in his most powerful form. After a grueling battle, they defeat False God Ganon and free Hyrule from his rule. The game ends with the people of Hyrule rejoicing in their newfound freedom, and Link and Zelda vowing to protect the land from any future threats.

ChatGPT

I needed to know what the Master Sword could potentially look like, given how each entry of Zelda has had its own respective design.

Can we get a design of the Master Sword for this game?

Dash Writes

The Master Sword in this game could have a design that reflects the theme of echoes and memories. The blade could be etched with ancient symbols and markings, each of which represents a different era or event in Hyrule's history. The hilt could be adorned with gems that glow with a soft blue light, symbolizing the sword's connection to the Triforce.

The sword could be upgradeable through various means, such as by collecting rare materials, completing side quests, or defeating powerful enemies. Each upgrade would increase the sword's damage output and possibly unlock new abilities or attacks, such as a charged attack that can cleave through multiple enemies at once.

This would make the Master Sword a formidable and valuable tool for Link to use in his quest to save Hyrule and defeat Ganon, without relying on any special abilities or gimmicks.

ChatGPT

Finally, a campaign Narrative?

Dash Writes

The world of Hyrule has been left scarred by the conflict, and many of its inhabitants are struggling to rebuild and move on. In the wake of the war, a new threat has emerged - rumors of a shadowy figure who seeks to harness the power of the legendary Triforce for their own nefarious purposes.

As Link and Zelda journey through the world, they encounter the echoes of the past in the form of spirits, memories, and ruins. These echoes hint at the true nature of the conflict that devastated Hyrule, as well as the identity of the shadowy figure who seeks to control the Triforce.

As Link and Zelda uncover the truth behind the conflict, they must also confront the challenges of the present. They will face powerful enemies, explore treacherous environments, and engage in intense battles. But with the help of allies new and old, they may be able to overcome the echoes of Ganon and restore peace to Hyrule once and for all.

ChatGPT

I don’t about you, but this one badass concept that I would love to play.

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