The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

About The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks launched on the Nintendo DS in December 2009 from Nintendo EAD Software Development Group No.3. This adventure puzzle title follows Link, an apprentice engineer racing to get his license before a traitorous Chancellor steals the kingdom's spirits. The story splits Zelda into body and soul, forcing Link to travel with her as a spectral guide while he pilots a train across Hyrule. Players navigate cel-shaded landscapes using this new vehicle mode to reach Spirit Towers. The game later reappeared on the Wii U via emulation. It stands out as the second DS entry in the franchise and introduces mechanics that differ significantly from its predecessor Phantom Hourglass.

Gameplay

Sessions revolve around navigating a vast map by drawing train routes on the touch screen. Once you plot a course, the engine runs automatically while you dodge obstacles, wild animals, and enemies using quick reflexes. Puzzles make up the bulk of exploration since you must manage fuel and track conditions to progress. Dungeon segments shift gameplay dynamics by letting you control both Link and Zelda simultaneously. You switch between them instantly to solve environmental riddles that require physical action from one character and magical guidance from the other. The touch controls feel responsive during these moments, though managing two characters adds a layer of complexity. Single player mode demands constant attention to route planning and real-time reactions on the tracks.

What Players Think

Critics and players gave Spirit Tracks strong marks with a Metacritic score of 87 out of 100. IGDB lists 189 ratings averaging 83.7 points, showing consistent approval across the board. PlayPile data shows community moods leaning heavily toward positive vibes with high engagement levels. Average playtime sits around 25 hours for a standard run through all main dungeons and side quests. Completion rates hover near 60% among those who start the game, suggesting some players struggle with the train mechanics or puzzle difficulty spikes. Review snippets frequently praise the dual-character dungeon design while noting the train segments as the most distinctive feature. No other site tracks these specific community metrics or mood breakdowns for this title.

PlayPile's Take

This adventure puzzle game is worth your time if you enjoy methodical exploration and touch-screen interaction. The price varies by region but often sits under twenty dollars on the used market. Players who like collecting achievements will find plenty to chase in the main campaign and bonus challenges. Link and Zelda teamwork shines brightest inside dungeons, making those sections feel fresh compared to other Zelda entries. Some might find the train travel repetitive after a few hours, yet the story keeps momentum going. Do not expect innovation in combat since the focus stays firmly on navigation and puzzle solving. Finish this game if you want a complete DS experience with a unique vehicle mechanic.

Storyline

Apprentice engineer Link is ready to travel to Hyrule Castle and receive his engineer's license. During the ceremony, Zelda slips Link a note warning him not to trust the Chancellor and to help her reach the Spirit Tower. The land's Spirit Tracks, mystical railway tracks that cover the land, have been disappearing and she suspects that the Chancellor is the cause. While heading to the Tower, the Chancellor intercepts them and proves Zelda's suspicions right: he casts a magic spell on her, splitting her body from her soul. Link and Zelda must work together to return Zelda to normal and save Hyrule once again.