76 replies to this topic

[Cukeman]

Some things (like scripts) are best done once and only once per project. Epic fails are not fun.

Nah, I'm not afraid of scripts, I just add them one at a time, and if something doesn't work,
I go back to the previous version. Of course I might be misunderstanding you.

Edited by Cukeman, 31 May 2012 - 11:39 PM.

[Cukeman]

Hi folks! As you may or may not be aware I'm super busy in university now, so I haven't worked on my quest for over two years- there's simply no time. On top of that I lost a ton of files when my external hard drive got corrupted- including text files detailing story, dialogue and design notes for my quest, so anything I can't remember is basically gone forever.
 
Although I never finished the second area of my quest, I did have the overall game planned out, and I selected music for nearly every part of the game. My ZC folder with quest and audio files is still on my computer, so I thought I would share my game soundtrack and give you as much of a story synopsis as I can remember. This will give anyone interested an idea of what the finished game would have been like:
 

Zelda III: The Return of Link "Beta" Soundtrack + Story Synopsis, Part 1 (WARNING! COMPLETE SPOILERS)

 
Bear in mind that this story was written before November 2011, so certain details in my quest don't mesh with some of the lore found in recent Zelda games like Skyward Sword, etc.
___Some areas don't have music tracks listed, because I was in the process of deciding between multiple options.
___Some parts of the story are also undetermined, and subject to change, but the overall outline is pretty clearly established.
___Most of Chapter 2 is actually complete and playable (minus the racecourse and the dungeon), and might become available for you to explore.
 
Chapter 1:
I don't need to explain much here, since this part of the quest is playable, there's even a playthrough video posted online.
Quest Download: http://www.purezc.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=54444
Playthrough Video: https://vimeo.com/46724615
 
♬ - Title Theme http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=0m0s
Title screen music.
 
♬ - The Abyss http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=0m44s
The perpetually disoriented mole character in the first cutscene was planned to reappear several times throughout the game in different areas. Although he never finds himself quite where he wants to be, he always has a tip for Link.
 
♬ - Welcome to Warp Zone! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=2m42s
The Warp Zone cave is basically a connected series of rooms you unlock that lets you quickly travel to the various overworld areas in the game. Those strange orbs you see throughout the game disappear when you obtain the Force Gem of the respective color.
 
♬ - Brainpan http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=3m22s
Level 1 music.
 
♬ - Undead Gatekeeper http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=4m33s
Level 1 boss music.
 
The Leech you can buy in the shop feeds on your blood, gradually draining your health until you die. It can be removed with a regular blue Bomb, which does zero damage to Link, or it will disappear when you die and continue. Seems pretty useless doesn't it? But later on in the game...
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Chapter 2:
♬ - Gor-koyo Land http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=5m20s
After obtaining the first Force Gem Link is now able to head east. He steps through the dimensional barrier and into: the Goron afterlife! Gor-koyo Land is a peaceful place Gorons go when they die where they can meet with their ancestors and rest their troubles (I did a small amount of research on Japanese beliefs about the afterlife, hence the use of "koyo"). The Gorons catch up with their ancestors, meet their heroes, relax in the hot springs, play various sports & mini-games, and feast on sumptuous gemstones.
___There's more to Gor-koyo Land than fun & games however. Not only is it a place to heal your regrets, it's a place for meditation and spiritual strengthening. Once Gorons are ready, they will head to the Goron Shrine to begin their meditative quest for spiritual enlightenment so that they can move on to the next and final world, where all beings and species are formless spirits at peace.
___Link still hasn't regained his corporeal form, like the Gorons he is a spirit. But he's not from this dimension, so the Gorons aren't able to entirely make out what Link actually looks like. In their eyes, they consider him to be a Goron.
___In order to leave Gor-koyo Land, Link will have to speak with the Goron Elder, but the path to his house has been blocked with boulders from the recent rockslides. Link will have to earn a Bomb Bag Upgrade, AND find a way to get his hands on some Super Bombs (the Goron shopkeeper asks for more rupees than you can carry, but he's willing to make a trade if you can find him some Wood Hearts). If Link doesn't clear all the boulders (in one go) a screen-shaking earthquake will cause more boulders to fall, replacing the ones Link destroyed.
___Later on, Link is able to make his way past the boulders, and find his way through a warping cave maze to the top of the mountain where the Elder lives. The Elder explains that the barrier between dimensions has been weakening lately, causing creatures to appear, the volcano to become agitated, bomb plants to wither, and springs to run dry. Having a greater spiritual maturity than the other Gorons, the Elder is able to accurately perceive Link's human form, and he believes that Link has been sent to their aid by the Goddesses. The Elder has closed access to the Goron Shrine due to the appearance of strange and menacing creatures, but he gives Link the key to enter.
 
♬ - Game House http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=7m37s
Once Link obtains the Boomerang, he can return here to play a mini-game (where you use a boomerang to hit moving targets within a time limit).
 
♬ - Goron Speedway http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=7m52s
Something's holding up the race- one of the competitors is missing! Link finds a young Goron who is too nervous to go through with the race, despite his dedicated training efforts. He gives his entry form to Link, who takes his place in the race. Winning the race earns Link a Bomb Bag Upgrade, allowing him to carry enough explosives to clear a path to the Elder's house. Seeing Link win gives the young Goron enough courage to compete in the next race. This Goron has a friend you might have talked to who won't give up on him.
 
♬ - Racecourse http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=11m4s
I have the race mechanics working, but I haven't actually built the track. Through scripting, Link automatically moves forward, so it's up to the player to decide where to go in order to navigate past the obstacles and open the correct pathways to reach the finish line before the (scripted) timer runs out (which will warp Link back to the entrance).
 
♬ - Goron Shrine http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=12m29s
The first floor of the Goron Shrine contains niches along the wall for meditation, along with an assortment of statues that make up the Hall of Heroes, where we see representations of renowned Gorons like Darunia and Darmani (one of the Gorons mentions that Gor-koyo Land is home to Gorons from all places and times, suggesting that while there are many realities, all Goron spirits share a common afterlife).
___Link heads downstairs, where this "dungeon" really begins. At first, Link's access is limited by small rivers of Lava seeping into the Shrine that he cannot cross. The first mini-boss is a stone golem; Link cannot actually damage it, but he can trick it into damaging itself on the rotating spike pillars in the room. When the golem is destroyed, Link is able to halt the flow of lava into the Shrine. The lava quickly cools off and hardens (through the magic of video games), allowing Link access to previously unreachable areas.
___The second mini-boss is a huge water droplet/amoeba thing that drops down from the ceiling when Link reenters a seemingly empty room. Once Link destroys the water-absorbing amoeba, he gets the Hammer, this dungeon's item, which once belonged to a legendary Goron hero and is capable of damaging the remaining golems in the level. In addition, water is restored to pools and springs throughout Gor-Koyo Land.
__The actual boss of this level is a large rock with an eye (much like Stone Arrghus in Four Swords Adventures). When you first enter the room it's empty, then large stone tiles begin to fall from the ceiling (which Link will need to dodge), then the boss drops down into the room. He rolls around bouncing off the walls at 45 degree angles. To defeat it, Link must use the hammer to activate heavy buttons which raise pillars from the floor. Crashing into one of these pillars stuns the boss, allowing Link to slash its vulnerable eye. When Link destroys this parasitic beast (which has been leeching the nutrients out of the soil), the bomb plants throughout Gor-Koyo Land are revitalized (also with the golems no longer crashing around, the volcano settles into a peaceful slumber once more). Link obtains the (orange-brown) second Force Gem, whose power comes from the bonds of brotherhood.
 
After getting the Force Gem, we skip to a cutscene where the Gorons and the Elder are extending their thanks to Link. The Gorons are now able to see (to their surprise) that Link is actually human. The Elder shows Link the spot where new Gorons first appear when they enter Gor-koyo land, a small crater at the base of a tall cliff. Gorons drop from on high and awaken in this afterlife. The Elder thinks that this spot is Link's best chance to leave, but it unsure how it can be accomplished. Link examines the spot, and finds he is able to walk through the wall, crossing through another dimensional barrier in the process.
 
The Abyss was pretty barren and straightforward for an overworld, so I wanted to challenge myself by creating a populated area this time around. Except for the Racecourse and the Elder's dialogue, this overworld area is basically complete (you can walk into the dungeon, but it's just a black room right now).
 
The bomb plants are pretty fun because they start as rock-hard buds, grow long thorns when they ripen (which can damage Link), and drop bombs for Link to collect when he slashes them.
 
One of the Gorons you can talk to, who seems to be a ghost is actually a living Goron who appeared in Gor-koyo Land due to the weakening of the dimensional barrier the Elder spoke of.
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Chapter 3:
♬ - Town in Mourning http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=14m1s
Link finds himself back in a corner behind several stalls and buildings. It turns out he is in Castle Town in Hyrule! Link's sprite is semi-transparent; as a ghost he is able to walk through walls, so he can freely enter and exit buildings. The townspeople can't see him, but when Link approaches a person with a thought bubble over their head, he can press the 'A' button to hear their thoughts. Link soon learns the townspeople are in a state of despair; the whole city is under siege, surrounded by monsters, there is no Hero to save them, there's a water shortage, and they don't know how long their supplies will hold out.
___Several people have thoughts that the Hero failed them, and that if he is lost, what chance do they have? One older lady still thinks fondly of Link, acknowledges that she's made mistakes too; she believes the Hero's efforts were not in vain, and hopes one day he will return.
___On a lesser note, the Castle Town's greedy shopkeeper is peeved because he hasn't been able to run his business of late.
___Link begins heading towards the Castle itself. Along the way Link breaks his Wooden Sword, but he stops in the guard post near the Castle gate and acquires one of their hefty Broad Swords. This sword deals more damage than the Wooden Sword, but is so heavy that Link can't slash with it, he can only thrust.
 
♬ - Zelda’s Tears http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=16m8s
As Link nears the Castle, a light rain begins to fall. Inside the Castle grounds, Link finds Princess Zelda in a small graveyard, grieving over the deaths of Link and Impa, her aged caretaker. Link approaches Zelda to hear her thoughts. Sensing a presence, Zelda turns around, sees the ghost of Link, and faints, collapsing into a state of shock.
 
♬ - Impa Speaks http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=16m30s
Suddenly, the ghost of Impa appears before her grave and speaks to Link, telling him of the growing evil presence in Hyrule, and her grave concern for Zelda, who has been in a severe state of deep depression and grief. Impa fears that in her weakened state, the shock of seeing Link has been too much for her, and that she won't be able to regain consciousness without assistance. Impa implores Link to make use of his ghostly state to help Zelda by entering her mind to battle the debilitating anguish and fear that torments her before it's too late. If Link doesn't hurry, Zelda might never recover.
 
♬ - Zelda’s Mind http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=17m40s
Yes, the third dungeon is Zelda's Mind! In this strange, surreal place Zelda's mental and emotional afflictions manifest themselves as monsters formed from glitchy graphics. The chamber floor and walls are literally made up of gray matter. Although this dungeon is linear (Link progresses continually to the east) there is a countdown timer. If Link isn't quick enough, he will have to start all over again.
___The dungeon item is the Boomerang, and the boss is a giant teddy bear. After taking enough damage, Ropes (snakes) being pouring out of the beast. Creepy and disturbing? Yup. Link obtains the (pink) third Force Gem (harnessing the power of a righteous, caring heart) and returns to the normal world at Zelda's side.
 
Impa is relieved that Link has been successful but, as a spirit herself, Impa warns Link that those who have passed on are only able to exist in the world of the living for limited amounts of time, and she doesn't know how much longer Link will have.
___Before leaving, Impa tells Link that she still believes in the prophecy which foretold Link as the chosen Hero. Link still bears the crest on his hand, and Impa has faith that, despite death, Link will ultimately prevail (this is a major continuing theme in the game if you hadn't noticed, not giving up on a friend, even if they make a mistake).
 
♬ - Zelda’s Regret http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=18m46s
Zelda comes to and thanks Link. She uses her power to materialize the Boomerang Link used in her mind as a gift. Zelda tells Link of Hyrule's plight, how Hyrule Castle is surrounded, how difficult it has been without Impa, and how seeing Link, even in spirit form, has begun to restore her hope. She begins to say more, but just then, Link is pulled back into the realm of the dead...
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Chapter 4:
The Abyss Revisited
Link explores another section of The Abyss, journeying through village ruins, and encountering the occasional Hyper Zombie (a much faster zombie with gray skin and a neon orange shirt). As he wanders through a large graveyard area, Link encounters the King of the Zombies, (a large zombie who can summon the lesser types). As a fun reference for fans of a certain 1994 Jim Carrey film, this creature's head looks very familiar, and "Cuban Pete" plays as the background music for his battle with Link.
___After slaying this half-boss, Link makes his way through an underground passage, and as he comes up to the surface: (cue cut scene)
 
Sheikah Village
Somewhere in the land of the living, a lone Sheikah is keeping a candlelight vigil over a grave to pay homage and show respect. Suddenly, the tombstone slides back, and Link climbs out! The Sheikah is shocked, becomes very upset with Link for defiling the grave, and leaves. 
___Link follows the winding path south along the dry creekbed until he reaches the Sheikah Village. The Sheikah, having a strong cultural association with death and the afterlife, are better able to interact with Link than the people of Castle Town. The tribe's Shaman, hearing of Link's plight, has an idea that might help, but asks Link to first clear out the monsters that have blocked off the water supply to the north. This is the source of Hyrule River, which eventually runs its course to Hyrule Castle, supplying its citizens with water. The Sheikah guard this water source for the royal family; they have been fighting back, but progress is slow. If Link helps them out, he will be able to make up for the disrespectful disturbance he caused in the graveyard.
 
Link heads north, but his progess reaches a halt when he comes to an invisible wall. He returns to the Shaman (who is pleased Link hasn't given up and left). The Shaman informs Link that the Sheikah have many such safeguards in place. The Shaman gives Link a Magic Wand which has the power to dispel the invisible barrier, and will also reveal any secrets cloaked by magic (plus it works like the Wooden Sword when used as a melee weapon).
___After Link clears out the monsters, the river flows again, and he returns to the Shaman, who tells Link where to find a nearby dungeon which holds a Force Gem. The Force Gems Link has been collecting are slowly restoring his aura; if Link can collect enough, he should be able to remain in the land of the living indefinitely, and interact with the ordinary populace.
___The dungeon is located in the surrounding swamp. Link will have to trek through underground tunnels surfacing in hollow trees and use his Magic Wand to reveal safe paths where he won't sink into the mire.
 
(Swamp Dungeon)
This dungeon is a very dank and slimy place; Leeches hang out on the walls and will attach themselves to Link if he comes too close. There are Zols and Gels, and Bubbles that will "curse" or "jinx" Link (disabling his sword or confusing his movements); but if you paid attention during this chapter, you'll recall the text you found about leechcraft revealing that (in Hyrule) Leeches have the ability to remove these effects because they draw impurites from your blood (they also drain health along with your blood so be sure to remove them quickly with a harmless blue Bomb once you're cured).
___The item in this dungeon is the Bow & Arrows, and the boss is... something similar to A Link to the Past's Vitreous (I always thought that boss was cool and unique). So you'll use your Bow & Arrows to shoot the eyes (standard Zelda fare). Link obtains this dungeon's Force Gem, stained blood-red, honoring the memory of lives given to protect others (a reference to the Sheikah's fealty).
 
With the fourth Force Gem in tow, Link returns to the Sheikah Village, still on his quest to save Hyrule. The Sheikah Village is quite far indeed from the Castle, which sits to the east, and a vast desert lies between. However, the Sheikah cross the desert by caravan once or twice a year, and they invite Link to join them.
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Chapter 5:
♬ - Great Desert http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=21m23s
Link rides in the Sheikah caravan, as they cross the desert for days. Journal entries mark the time. The caravan stops to rest at the halfway point (where you can stretch your legs and talk to the others). During this brief respite, they are attacked by marauders. After Link fends them off the caravan continues its journey, finally dropping Link off at the other end of the desesrt.
___A Sheikah speaks with Link before parting. With four Force Gems, Link's aura is much stronger now, and if Link can get one more Force Gem, he should be able to remain in the regular world permanently. The Sheikah gifts Link a Magic Jar as a farewell gesture (now Link has a small Magic Meter) and tells Link to keep his eye out for more (so that he can maximize his Magic Meter).
___Link must now make his way on foot to the east through intermittent sandstorms while maneuvering narrow stone walkways through the quicksand. Link soon picks his way to the pyramid, collecting more Magic Jars along the way.
 
♬ - Ancient Tomb http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=23m11s
Link steps inside the pyramid, entering this new dungeon. Here Link finds the Book of Magic, which allows him to to fire magical blasts from his wand (consuming magic). Link will have to use this new ability to activate dungeon puzzles from a distance. I don't remember if I ever came up with a boss or not, but Link does obtain the (sandy yellow) fifth Force Gem (containing the power of the blazing sands) after defeating the boss. Link no longer has to worry about being helplessly drawn back into the realm of the dead!
 
Gerudo Valley
Progressing to the east, Link comes upon Gerudo Valley, the place on Hyrule's border where the river that originates near Sheikah Village emerges from its long subterranean journey beneath the Great Desert.
___Link will not be able to leave the Gerudo's camp without permission from their leader as the gate to Hyrule is under strict guard. I don't recall what Link must do to get that permission but... in speaking to the Gerudo, Link learns of Ganon's past; how he scoffed at the laws of the Gerudo and became a theif with zero principles. Ultimately, the Gerudo's aged leader is pleased to find that Link has set out to stop Ganon, and grants him permission to continue east to Hyrule.
___The Gerudo's leader expects she will pass away soon, but has accepted her fate. Outside the tent stands a bitter Gerudo, who is unready to lose her leader. She says the leader could be healed if only they could obtain some Sacred Sand.
 
Link leaves Gerudo Valley, following the river east toward Hyrule Castle.

Zelda III: The Return of Link "Beta" Soundtrack + Story Synopsis, Part 2 (WARNING! COMPLETE SPOILERS)

 

Chapter 6:

♬ - Castle Under Siege http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=25m7s

Arriving at night, Link finds the Castle surrounded by Moblins, etc. under the command of a much larger Boss Moblin. Link can sneak around or attract the enemies attention and fight his way through minor skirmishes. Link makes his way to the Boss Moblin, who simply laughs at Link, mocking him for his inability to do anything. Link continues to explore the perimeter of the Castle until he obtains the Power Bracelets, which allow Link to move heavy objects, and give him the strength to slash with his Broad Sword (instead of only thrusting). Now Link can challenge the Boss Moblin.

 

♬ - Boss Moblin http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=26m30s

I don't exactly remember how this fight plays out, but the Power Bracelets are required (did it involve bomb tossing?). Link defeats the Boss Moblin, breaking the siege on Hyrule Castle and chasing off all the enemies.

 

The people of Castle Town are grateful for Link's help. Zelda urges Link to gather more Force Gems; having been defeated by Dark Link before, Link will need to regain his full vitality if he is to stand a chance.

 

♬ - Tunic Shop http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=27m18s

One of the buildings in the now-liberated Castle Town is the Tunic Shop, the home of four short tailors where Link can don the blue, red, and purple tunics, which protect him from taking damage in harsh environments (allowing him to breathe underwater, endure extreme heat, and survive in an atmosphere of poisonous miasma). I don't recall if I planned for a golden tunic or not.

 

In a nod to PureZC (à la the Bombers gang), there are four NPCs in Castle Town who stand back-to-back in a cluster (one per screen) in the would-be open corners of the town square. Together they form the Screen Design Club, and they appear in various quests, saving them from "bad" screen design. Understandably, life is difficult for them since they can't move out of their spot without compromising the screen's design integrity, so they tend to complain a lot.

 

The player can also enter a building and talk to a grumpy character named Culex who mentions some old PureZC meme (I forget).

 

At this point in the game the player has the choice of getting the next two Force Gems in either order.

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Chapter 7:

Where should Link go now? Zelda can only tell Link of a vague legend about the royal waters' ability to point a lost soul in the right direction.

___Hyrule River forks at Castle Town, one branch heads towards the Castle itself, while the other continues east for a bit before heading north. Link follows the latter branch towards a rocky, mountainous region.

 

♬ - Snowbound Ruins http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=28m25s

This elevated mountain pass is bitter cold with snow year-round. Link has to find a way through the snowfall and the handful of puzzles still intact that were left behind in the ruins of this forgotten culture. This area is notable for the falling snowflakes and for the way Link leaves footprints in the snow that fill in behind him after a short time.

 

Once through, the path leads down the other side of the mountain into a hidden canyon where tremendously ancient burial mounds of stone lie covered in grass. This is the kingdom that existed ages ago, before they relocated to Hyrule as we know it today. The only person who lives here is a strange old hermit who spends his time meditating.

 

Primeval Cairn

Link enters the largest burial mound to find the next dungeon, the Primeval Cairn. The dungeon item here is Shoe Oil, which allows Link to run quickly when he rubs it on his shoes by pressing the 'L' button (pressing 'L' again wipes it off). This will come in handy for Link given this dungeon's timed puzzles and large number of traps he will have precious little time to escape. I don't think I ever came up with an idea for the boss here, but after the boss Link collects the (stone grey) sixth Force Gem containing the mysterious power of the ancient past.

___While Link is exploring this dungeon he encounters the ghost of an ancient pre-Hyrule king, who tells Link about Hyrule's Secret Gardens, which was where this kingdom relocated to, before Hyrule was established.

 

Actually, if memory serves the Primeval Cairn was also the place where Link gets the Roc's Feather, because I seem to recall that certain traps required Link to make running jumps to safety.

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Chapter 8:

♬ - Hyrule River http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=31m54s

This is a water sound that plays when Link is by the river.

 

Link finds an underwater path leading out of the Castle that surfaces in a walled-off, secret, long-forgotten area. This is the Sacred Gardens, once the ruling family's domain in bygone times, before Hyrule Castle was built around it sealing off this treasured location from the outside world.

 

Sacred Gardens

A dungeon that takes place "outdoors", this level was planned to have some of that 'Lost Woods' forest maze exploration going on, not a lot though, probably just at one or two junctions. Mostly this is a quiet, peaceful place; a mysterious forest with a river running through it.

___I believe the dungeon item here was the Flippers. I don't think I came up with a boss for this area but, similar to the aforementioned dungeon, Link encounters the ghost of an old Hyrule king, who tells Link that although this sacred forest kingdom predates Hyrule, it was built by an even earlier society whose kingdom existed on the other side of the snowy mountains.

___Link eliminates the boss and obtains the seventh (verdant green) Force Gem, imbued with the flourishing power of nature.

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Chapter 9:

Link's next puzzling clue sends him in search of an underground cavern whose entrance is 'not of this world'. Link returns to Gor-koyo Land, and is now allowed to enter the guarded passageway at the rear of the Goron's gem-strewn cave. Soon after entering this long-forbidden area, the floor gives way beneath Link's feet, and he plummets into a dark tunnel.

 

♬ - Still Depths http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=32m34s

Link awakens to find that his fall was fortunately cushioned by a pile of powdered coal. Covered in the substance, Link's sprite is now black, and he leaves black footprints on the floor beneath him. The Still Depths are a network of narrow passages far beneath the earth; long disused and nearly pitch-black, only the dim glow of white diamonds in their natural setting illuminates the tunnels.

___Eventually Link finds his way out (through a waterfall that cleans him off) into a large open chamber that is brightly lit. Here Link finds an entire populated city!

 

Dwarves' Town

A dwarf who observes Link emerging from the tunnels quickly becomes vexed with him. These tunnels are off-limits! An agreement was made with the Gorons not to delve beyond a certain point! This is an outrage!

___The dwarf Elder is more understanding however. He realizes that the Goron Elder made a rare exception for Link, and that his decision was not reached lightly. The dwarf Elder does not know of the specific gem Link is seeking, but suggests Link might try searching for one in the nearby quarry. The quarry has become somewhat hazardous of late, but Link has seen his share of danger, so the Elder leaves the task in Link's capable hands.

 

♬ - Gemstone Quarry http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=34m25s

This "dungeon" is where the dwarves mine their gems (obviously), and there is various mining equipment lying around. There are many pits in the area, fortunately this level's item is the Hookshot. This is another case where I don't recall if I came up with a boss or not. I do know that after Link defeats the boss one of the dwarves walks in on Link before he can get the eighth and penultimate (midnight blue) Force Gem, fortified with the quiet, impenetrable strength of the earth's foundations. The dwarf is perturbed to find that the gem Link was after is their pride and joy, but more urgent matters are at hand; the Elder is hurt, and Link's presence is requested. With no time to acquire the Force Gem, Link returns to Dwarves' Town.

 

♬ - Passing of the Elder http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=36m22s

The Elder is on his death bed; it seems that Link's battle with the boss literally shook the cavern, and the Elder was caught in a cave-in. The Elder speaks with Link, and the dwarves stay up all night by his side doing everything in their power to save him, and keeping watch by his side. The dwarf who brought Link is bitter, blaming Link for the Elder's predicament. After a long, difficult night, in spite of the dwarves' best efforts, the Elder passes away.

 

The morning comes with a change of heart for the bitter dwarf, who forgives Link, accompanies him back to the Force Gem, and bids him farewell. Just as Link grabs the Force Gem however, a tremor rocks the chamber, rupturing the cave wall and causing a large stream of water to burst through, sweeping Link away in its tide. The dwarf looks on in bewilderment and confusion, curious as to Link's fate.

 

I was going back and forth on the idea of Dark Link appearing a couple times to directly interfere with Link's quest.

___First, Dark Link could be the one responsible for pulling Link back into The Abyss after he completes the "Zelda's Mind" dungeon. Dark Link might have a skirmish with LInk, then leave him to be taken care of by the King of the Zombies.

___Next, Dark Link could be responsible for the floor collapsing beneath Link; appearing before Link's eyes moments before he plummets into the Still Depths.

___When Link emerges from the Still Depths, covered in coal dust, the dwarf who sees him could confuse Link for Dark Link, a troublemaker who's recently been spotted in the area. Dark Link's final act to hinder Link's progress would be rupturing the cave wall in the Gemstone Quarry, unleashing the subterannean river that washes Link away.

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Chapter 10:

♬ - Storm Drains http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=37m45s

Link awakens in the Storm Drains, a series of rooms between large gratings built as an exit route for the drainage of excess water. There are channels in the floor which carry the water from one grating to the next. These gratings act as doors, and each room has a switch to open the next gate. Link must board a raft and navigate the circuitous channels using long range items to activate switches to progress through the water system (stopping occasionally to disembark and take care of something on foot).

 

♬ - Sleeping Sentries http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=39m54s

Finally, Link emerges on the other side of the last gate and finds himself in a tremendously vast cavern. What appear to be stars in the night sky are actually glistening water droplets from unseen stalactites on the distant ceiling. Link is now incredibly, impossibly deep below the surface; far, far deeper than ever before. These are the very roots of the earth itself. The 'center of the earth' as it were. The surface world is but a distant memory here. The air is close, and the silence is deafening.

___Stretching before Link's eyes along the immense cavern floor are the abandoned ruins of some unknown civilization.

___Link picks his way through a fenced (but open) maze. There is nothing to impede his progess, just a large number of mysterious stone sentries; statues which sit there, staring straight ahead with a piercing, yet inscrutable gaze that gives Link the creeps.

 

♬ - Elektronika (Dormant) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=41m18s

Link enters the towering central building. It is pitch dark inside. Link finds this dungeon's item, a humble Lantern, inside a chest. When the lantern is lit, Link's eyes are met with walls rife with dormant machinery. Link exits the building through a side door.

 

Link follows the new path before him which leads to a diminutive, unassuming building. Stepping inside, Link finds a switch, which he activates. The humming sound of a mighty dynamo is heard.

 

♬ - Sentry Maze http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=41m55s

Link steps outside to find the sea of statues has sprung to life. The path leading back to the tower is now shut, so Link must go the long way around: through the maze of sentries. The stone sentinels rotate in place, their roving eyes scouring the terrain for intruders. If Link crosses their line of sight, he is teleported back to the maze's entrance.

___Link finally makes his way back to the main door and reenters the tower.

 

Meanwhile, back in Hyrule, Zelda senses evil brewing, and commands her soldiers to assemble along the top of the outer walls in preparation for an assault.

 

♬ - Elektronika (Activated) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=44m12s

Inside the dungeon, Link is met with an impressive sight. Cogs and wheels turn, lights blink on and off, conveyors move, and lifts go up and down. This tremendously ancient culture was clearly a technologically advanced civilization. They somehow harnessed the very power of lightning itself to breath life into their creations.

___One of the gameplay mechanics in this dungeon is numbered blocks. Each time Link activates them they count down (from five to zero). Link will have to manipulate them correctly in order to advance.

 

♬ - Controller http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=46m13s

The boss of the Elektronika dungeon, the Controller, is a robot (somewhat similar in shape to Oracle of Ages' Ramrock, The Wind Waker's Gohdan, or The Minish Cap's Mazaal) which has been operating for ages. This robot has no evil intentions, it is merely the guardian and caretaker of this establishment, and seeks to keep it running until its masters return. Link is simply in the way of its duties, and it must protect its surroundings at all costs. Among other attacks, it fires lasers at Link.

 

Link is forced to deactivate the Controller, and secures the ninth and final (electric blue) Force Gem, pulsing with the bridled power of lighting. With all nine Force Gems, Link's full essence is restored to him, and Zelda contacts him telepathically; a swarm of enemies is attacking the Castle, and help is needed. I don't recall exactly what I had in mind, but somehow Link is able to transport back to Hyrule.

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Chapter 11:

♬ - The Castle Defense http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=48m21s

Hyrule's soldiers are faring poorly in battle, but their spirits are revived when Link shows up; the legendary hero, fighting right alongside them! Link makes his way back and forth along the wall, firing arrows at ground forces, battling foes that manage to scale to the top, and clearing a path for Zelda who uses her power to heal the wounded. Two additional waves of enemies assault the Castle, but Link and friends are able to fend them off as well.

 

The time has come to confront Dark Link. According to Zelda's scouts, Dark Link's forces are entering this world through a doorway hidden in the mountains. Now that Link's life has been fully restored to him, he is once again able to wield his Magical Sword (which has the ability to throw sword beams). Before he leaves, Zelda uses her power to supercharge Link's Force Gems, granting him temporary invincibilty.

 

♬ - Path of Destiny http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=52m27s

Link and his Force Gems are now bathed in a golden glow. As Link leaves the Castle to follow the river north towards the mountains a mighty thunderbolt rips the sky open. A battalion of Darknuts swarm down the mountain, and a torrential downpour begins to fall. Link tears through their ranks and makes his way into the mountain.

 

Once inside, Link find a strange mirror. As he approaches the mirror, his invulnerability wears off. Link steps through the mirror into another world...

Zelda III: The Return of Link "Beta" Soundtrack + Story Synopsis, Part 3 (WARNING! COMPLETE SPOILERS)

 

Chapter 12:

♬ - Drifting Wastes http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=54m43s

Link's legs suddenly buckle as he finds himself way up in the sky on a narrow ledge of rock suspended thousands and thousands of feet in the air. The wind whistles briskly around him; and far below, Link can sees a mass of clouds rolling swiftly by.

___He is back in the realm of the dead once more. This time he will have to make his way across floating islands of barren rock using his Hookshot, etc. There is no room for misstep in this desolate, precarious place.

 

Link travels from rock to rock until he reaches the Dark Tower, Dark Link's fortress and stronghold, which is shrouded in a fog of poisonous miasma. In his spirit form, this would pose no threat for Link, but with his physical form restored to him, Link will need to don the purple tunic for protection.

 

♬ - Dark Ascent http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=58m58s

Between floors, Link scales sections of a vast flight of stairs located on the outside of the Dark Tower.

 

♬ - Vs. Dark Link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=60m11s

Finally, Link has climbed to the roof of the Dark Tower, and stands ready to challenge Dark Link, face to face. Link overcomes his nemesis in a climactic swordfight.

 

♬ - The Summons http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=64m12s

Dark Link falls to his knees in defeat, but in his final moment he reveals that, through a transfusion, he now carries the blood of Link; thus his sacrifice will revive Ganon! Dark Link lifts his arms in triumph, and perishes.

 

♬ - Ganon Arises http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=64m48s

The tower begins to quake, and out of the shadows, a giant Ganon appears, in all his fearsome porcine terror. In a heroic battle, Link manages to slay the formidable behemoth.

 

As Link stands catching his breath, four Dark Links appear, one in each corner of the screen. Link is surrounded!

 

♬ - Dark News http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=65m54s

Zelda contacts Link telepathically, aware of his thoughts. Dark Link has cloned himself, and Link is going to have to defeat the clones and recover the blood Dark Link took from him when he died in order to prevent future resurrection attempts.

 

♬ - Battle for the Blood http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=67m7s

In epic fashion, Link single-handedly finishes off the Dark Link clones and recovers the vial of his blood, ending this once and for all.

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Epilogue:

With the villains destroyed, Link collects the Triforce of Courage from the little old man who's been guarding it and returns to Hyrule Castle.

 

Link and Zelda enter the chamber where the "first generation Zelda" lies under the oppressive spell of deep slumber that was cast upon her:

 

♬ - The Triforce http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=68m27s

Holding the now-completed Triforce aloft, Link wishes for her revival.

 

♬ - Zelda Recovers http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=68m51s

Together Link and Zelda watch as she slowly awakens. Zelda finally meets her great, great (etc.) aunt Zelda.

 

♬ - Final Respects http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=69m32s

Link and both Zeldas pay a visit to Impa's grave to solemnly pay their final respects to the late nursemaid, who did so much to bring peace back to Hyrule.

 

♬ - Celebration http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=71m5s

Castle Town holds a large celebration for the return of the "first generation Zelda" and the freedom of Hyrule.

 

♬ - Credits http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=73m25s

Staff Roll listing the people behind the game including scripters, beta testers, music composers, etc.

 

♬ - End Sequence http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=76m2s

The path of the Hero continues on as Link rides off towards the sunset in search of his next adventure.

 

♬ - Top Secret Area I http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=78m10s

Persistent and determined gamers might (might) find this area.

 

♬ - Top Secret Area II http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=79m14s

This is another part of the same area, not a second secret area.

 

♬ - Unused Track: Elektronika (Activated) http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uXnqR2BwIoM&t=80m12s

An alternative track I was considering for the Elektronika dungeon. I included it because it's catchy, and I could.

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Trade Quest Items:

After Link drives off the Boss Moblin's gang, the shopkeeper in Castle Town is finally able to reopen his store. He gives Link the Wind Fish Plush as thanks.

___Link gives this to a small child in Castle Town who is too upet to sleep. The child's grateful mother doesn't have much to give you in return so she gives you a lone Medicine Pill (and yes, this is a Dr. Mario reference).

___Link gives this to a person in Castle Town who can't afford the doctor. This person gives Link a Monocle which was left in their home by mistake.

___Link returns this item to its rightful owner, a rich man in Castle Town who gives Link a luxurious Silk Cushion in return.

___Link gives this item to the strange old hermit near the Primeval Cairn, who has been sitting on an old broken rock for years. The hermit gives Link the Rock.

___Link gives this item to an old Goron in Gor-koyo Land who is delighted to be reunited with his favorite chair. He gives Link a Large Lens in return.

___Link gives this item to the shopkeeper in The Abyss. It is actually his contact lens that has been missing! The shopkeeper gives Link an eerie-looking Wooden Totem.

___Link gives this item to the Sheikah who was watching over the grave. The totem is designed to protect a grave by warding off evil spirits. The Sheikah gives Link a pouch filled with Sacred Sand.

___Link gives this item to the bitter Gerudo, who uses it to restore the health of her aging leader. Deeply thankful, the Gerudo give Link a Giant Ruby.

___Link gives this final item to his dwarf friends who are thrilled to have this long-missing treasure restored to them. As thanks they give Link the incredible Dwarf Mail. This sparkling armor slowly restores health to the wearer. Clever players will discover that the Dwarf Mail's restorative properties make it safe to always carry a Leech with you to prevent being cursed or jinxed.

 

Other Items:

Blue Potion (Health)

Green Potion (Magic)

Scroll (Quake Hammer, Spin Attack)

NES Medals (Samus' Helmet, Mario's Overalls, Pit's Wings)

 

Other Notes:

I planned for a cave with four extra challenges, Link gains access to each challenge as his collection of Force Gems grows. In the first three rooms Link gets to play stages from Metroid, Super Mario Bros. and Kid Icarus (yeah I know this kind of thing has been done before), and the fourth challenge is a boss fight against an unspeakable horror... the annoying orange! (hey, this was several years ago, and I just hoped it might give the player a chuckle)

 

I was planning to have a fortune teller in my quest, similar to the one in A Link to the Past. He or she would be able to determine Link's progress (based on the items in his inventory) and give out clues about where he should go next.

 

So... pretty ambitious for my first quest, eh?

 

Edited by Cukeman, 25 December 2015 - 04:29 AM.