Wii U Zelda Release Date: 'Wind Waker HD' Out in Fall; New Zelda To Offer Non-Linear, Co-op Gameplay?

Ever since the Zelda tech demo introduced the Wii U back at E3 2011, gamers have anticipated the next iteration of the series. Nintendo has finally decided to unveil new information on the next Zelda during its Nintendo Direct Conference this morning.

Zelda series director Eiji Aonuma announced that the team was hard at work on the new game and that it would re-examine Zelda conventions such as playing alone and linear dungeons. While Aonuma did not reveal much, he seemed to suggest that gamers would not have to progress linearly through dungeons. The original Zelda title did not force linear progression on gamers, but the more recent titles in the series have been rigid about it. The idea that gamers will not have to play alone is also an interesting bit of information. This could mean that there could be a co-op mode (which is prevalent throughout industry titles these days) or it could mean the implementation of a limited two player mode in the vein of "Super Mario Galaxy." In that title, one gamer would control Mario while the second one would point a second Wiimote at the screen to collect stars and freeze enemies.

Aonuma also noted that the graphical style would be different from the tech demo and that while experimenting with past visuals in the series, the team has come to find a newer style for the next installment. He also added that a release for the title is far away but offered up a consolation prize for fans.

Aonuma announced that "The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker" would be making its debut in an HD remake this fall season. The title will not only feature updated graphics but an altered game play experience that will also incorporate Miiverse. Aonuma also stated that gamers will be able to play the title both on the TV and off the TV and on the GamePad.