The original Crypt of the Necrodancer released on the PC way back in April 2015 by two independent game studios named Klei Entertainment and Brace Yourself Games. It released to the PlayStation in 2016, the Xbox in 2017, and didn't even make its way to the Nintendo Switch until February 1, 2018. But Switch owners have the final laugh now as they are the only ones who can experience the sequel, which includes elements from the Legend of Zelda.
That's right! Cadence of Hyrule is a crossover with Legend of Zelda and Crypt of the Necromancer. We were super hyped when it was first announced and now that it's been out for awhile now, we're happy to say that it has proven to be a super enjoyable game. Here's everything you need to know about it!
Bust a move through dungeons
Battle your way through familiar looking Zelda locations, all while having to maintain the right beat. Dungeons are randomly generated and you can play as either Zelda or Link. There's even two-player co-op.
Bust a move in the dungeon
- What is the Crypt of the Necrodancer?
- What parts of Legend of Zelda are used?
- What is gameplay like?
- What about the music?
What is the Crypt of the Necrodancer?
You may be wondering why they chose the name Necrodancer instead of Necromancer. That's because your character can only perform actions to the beat of the music playing in the background. Each successful hit racks up a multiplier to increase attacks, but failing to match to the beat can cause you to be harmed by a monster attack if you're in the range of one.
Each monster moves to preset motions and that gives players the unique ability to learn patterns and come up with their own strategies to defeat their foes. Not only that, but as you progress in the game, you'll collect new armor, weapons, items, and treasures for your character. Each one serves as an upgrade to increase your defense, attack, or unique abilities.
But, if you die, you die. The death system in Crypt of the Necrodancer starts you back at the main menu if you ever fall to enemy hands. You'll lose all your progress, items, and be forced to start over. While that sounds like something we all hate, I believe the extra challenge makes it more exciting!
What parts of Legend of Zelda are used?
Unlike the previous Crypt of the NecroDancer game, this one takes place in Hyrule, the kingdom from Legend of Zelda. You'll take control of Zelda and Link on your quest to save Hyrule from evil forces. There are several familiar looking locations and enemies as well.
Each dungeon is randomly generated but containes elements that you'd find in a Zelda game. There are also a few puzzles that you'll need to solve. I mean, it's not really a Zelda game without puzzles is it?
What is gameplay like?
Link and Princess Zelda are the only playable characters, at first. Cadence, the main character of Crypt of the Necrodancer, isn't an option until you unlock her. But it isn't the easiest process in the world.
As far as gameplay goes, the rhythmic action-adventure aspects of Crypt of the Necrodancer (COTN) are carried over. This means you'll need to match all your actions to the beat of the music while killing your enemies. Dungeons will follow the same mechanic as COTN by randomly generating each time you start a new game.
What about the music?
A game that relies heavily on music must have an amazing soundtrack. There are no ifs, ands, or buts about it. With that said, I am pleased to report that the Cadence of Hyrule will feature 25 remixed classics of the Legend of Zelda songs! That's probably one of the best things about this game. I mean, Zelda songs are so catchy, so it should be pretty easy for most people to move to the beat.
Bust a move through dungeons
Battle your way through familiar looking Zelda locations, all while having to maintain the right beat. Dungeons are randomly generated and you can play as either Zelda or Link. There's even two-player co-op.
Updated March 2020: Updated article to reflect that the game is available for purchase.
