This plays with the very concept of a mask in general, in that it is an object designed to hide something else. Each one of these masks is representative of a character, idea, or significant moment in the game. As Link explores the world and assists its inhabitants, he is often rewarded with a mask that provides him with new abilities. In Majora's Mask, these themes of holding onto or being controlled by negative moments are often symbolized by masks.
While the circumstances vary between these characters, the common element is that they all feel a sense of loss or emptiness, something which Link must help heal. As Link traverses Termina, he meets many people, all experiencing their own hardships. To return to Majora's Mask, the classic N64 adventure explores many of the same ideas. The spirits of these deceased individuals are still wandering the world, some even being twisted into freakish monsters, and its up to Kena to lay them to rest. The aforementioned village was met with a great disaster, one which sadly killed many of its inhabitants. More specific plot details will be left out to avoid spoilers, however the game as a whole can be summarized as a tale about grief and healing. Kena is known as a "spirit guide" and armed with a magical staff and the help of small creatures called The Rot, she embarks on this supernatural quest, facing off against demonic enemies along the way. Much of the adventure in Kena: Bridge of Spirits tasks the player with exploring a tucked away mystical village, helping lost souls move from this life to the next. RELATED: What to Expect From Indie Games in 2022 Grief and Healing This is not to suggest that Ember Lab ripped off Nintendo's work, but rather paid a touching tribute to it and proved that imitation is often the most sincere form of flattery.
However, the connection stems even further than this, as Majora's Mask may have had a strong influence on the narrative and thematic depth based upon how Kena: Bridge of Spirits ultimately plays out.
Considering that Ember Lab made a CGI short based on Majora's Mask just a few years earlier, it's easy to see why that game may have had an influence on the studio. Needless to say, it has been a smashing success for Ember Lab.įrom the moment it was first announced, many players pointed out the tonal and visual similarities between Kena: Bridge of Spirits and Nintendo's own fantasy inspired series, The Legend of Zelda. The game went on to earn several Game of the Year nominations, as well as winning the top prize of being dubbed "Best Indie Game". Released in late 2021 to critical acclaim, the indie title had all the flair, polish and ambition of a big budget triple A studio game, making it a standout experience in an already crowded market. Despite being its first ever video game production, Ember Lab wowed the masses with its breakout hit Kena: Bridge of Spirits.
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