"Legend of Zelda" online

1) How would you describe the level of engagement compared to more action oriented games from the same period?

I would describe the level of engagement of Zelda as slightly more than that of Super Mario Brothers. The view is top down and allows for movement in the four cardinal directions, as opposed to Super Mario which was more linear. The execution of the top down view in Zelda avoids the loss of detail inherent from a top view by drawing the objects from a view in-between that of a side view and a top down view, while maintaining the mechanics of a top down layout.

2) What role does setting and characterisation play in the game?

The setting and characterization emphasize the story and try to connect with the player emotionally. The setting helps emphasize the fantastical space you inhabit when you play the game.

3) How do spells, pickups and power-ups assist the game play?

The hearts added health, but are hidden in the bushes along with spiders that can reduce health. The risk of the spiders can be completely avoided when Link's health is full by not slashing any bushes with the sword. When his health is low however, it may be advantageous to brave the bushes to find hearts in order to be prepared to face the larger and more dangerous enemies in the game which can not be avoided.