There is a tragedy hidden in plain sight in the ending of , which puts a very different spin on the supposedly happy conclusion. On the surface, the game’s final moments seem to be nothing more than a collection of positive scenes from across Hyrule, showing the final results of Zelda’s efforts to protect her kingdom. However, closer examination reveals a much darker side to one of these moments.
There are plenty of darker details in, many of which only reveal their full depth on close examination or reflection. For example, ’s regional phenomena all have terrifying implications for the people of Hyrule. Of course, the pervasively dour atmosphere of often sees it labeled as the darkest entry in the franchise, but ultimately it is far from the only game to include such elements. The ending of is merely the most recent example of this trend.
Zelda engages with the stories of many NPCs in , many of whom can then be seen depicted living happy lives in the game’s ending credits. One of the scenes shown during this sequence is Condé the Yeti jumping for joy at the sight of his brother’s hot air balloon. On the surface, this is a heartwarming moment, promising that the pair will soon be together again at last. However, this impending happy reunion is overshadowed by the fact thatCondé’s brother is also about to learn that their father has died during his absence.
In many ways, this will be one of the worst ways possible for Condé’s brother to end his journey. Condé himself has been left alone for a long time, sadly waiting and hoping for his brother’s return. Furthermore, the trouble brought by the Rifts has only compounded Condé’s circumstances. Condé’s isolation is a prevalent theme for the Yeti; any possible neighboring races have been cut from entirely, meaning his mountaintop home is devoid of companionship without his family. As such, it is easy to see his brother feeling responsible for Condé’s emotional distress upon learning the truth.
Of course, it is not hard to
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