Silent Reflections: A Game For Zelda Fans

(Silent Reflections Prototype full playthrough: SPOILERS!)

--Check out the demo!-- 

A few years ago, I decided to take steps toward my childhood dream of becoming a game designer. I wanted to make a game that was meaningful and within reach (or, at least, just outside of my reach). After coming up with a few failed concepts, I stumbled upon a video describing the pitfalls of 3D Zelda .

Now, I am a long time Zelda fan, and got introduced to the series through Majora's Mask (the second 3D title of the series), so I have no qualms with 3D Zelda. However, the video made me think, "what would 2D Zelda look like if it was redesigned with modern systems, art, and style?" (sort of like what Hollow Knight did for Metroidvania games) At the time, A Link Between Worlds had already been released, and provided a great reference for different things you could do with 2D Zelda. However, I wanted to go in a different direction than 2D Zelda games had gone before. In fact, I wanted to flip 2D Zelda on its head.

That's when the idea of Silent Reflections sparked to life. Silent Reflections is a twisted, Zelda-like game made by a Zelda fan, for Zelda fans. It takes place in a dark, "Alice in Wonderland-esque" fantasy world which is imploding from the inside-out. Instead of starting in the overworld, the game starts right in the first dungeon, which is one of the deepest and darkest of them all. Through the first act of the game, you will work your way through these dungeons, finding unique treasures and earning more freedom along the way. 

Speaking of treasures, this game will not have any one-off "key items". Each major item is designed to be a "multi-tool" which can be used in several settings and is useful outside of the dungeon you find it in. This also means that the bosses at the end of each dungeon can be beaten in multiple ways, which breaks the mold of "shoot the weak spot three times and win". 

Furthermore, this game will not have "junk" treasure chests. You will no longer feel the disappointment of only finding five rupees in a chest. Although you will have to work harder for them, every treasure chest you find will feel like real treasure because they all contain something important.

I'm sure you're thinking, "all of that sounds interesting, but is it actually fun?" As a proof of concept, I've created a pre-alpha prototype that you can download and play by clicking the link below. However, there's much much more to this game than my words or the demo will ever show. That's why I need your help.

With where the game is at in its current state, I will not be able to complete it. However, with your support, you will not only help me fulfill my dream of becoming a game designer, but you will also help me create a valuable experience for gamers (especially Zelda fans). I'll be able to rebuild the systems in the game for future use, which will make the game much easier to create in the long run. Furthermore, I will improve the art and sound design so I can create a proper demo with a crisp, modern feel.  All in all, your support will allow this game to come to life.

Thank you all for your help. I could never make this dream come true without your generosity, and I appreciate that you went out of your way to help me. If you want to stay up to date on my progress, follow me on Twitter @AboutThatYak . Or, if you want more information on my other projects, check out my website at www.innerhero.xyz


--Link to Prototype Demo-- 


Thanks again!

Jack Ward