Gaten Matarazzo’s Love for Legend of Zelda Games

Gaten Matarazzo, widely recognized for his role as Dustin Henderson in the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things,” is not just a talented actor but also a passionate gamer with a deep affection for the Legend of Zelda video game series. In a recent interview with Inverse, Matarazzo shared his excitement about the forthcoming Legend of Zelda movie and delved into his personal journey of falling in love with this iconic gaming franchise.

Late to the Game: Gaten’s Introduction to Zelda

Gaten’s Busy Start

Gaten Matarazzo’s life in the entertainment industry kicked off at a remarkably young age when he made his Broadway debut at just nine years old. His talent and charisma were evident from the beginning, but it left him with little time for hobbies like gaming. He initially missed out on the world of Zelda due to his hectic schedule and the predominance of the Nintendo Wii in his early gaming experiences.

The Nintendo Switch Revolution

Matarazzo’s gaming journey took a turn when the Nintendo Switch was released. Its portability allowed him to play games during his frequent travels, making it an ideal companion for a busy actor. The Switch opened the door to single-player adventures, and this is where his love for Zelda began to bloom.

Exploring the Zelda Universe

Starting at the age of 13 or 14, Gaten Matarazzo ventured into the expansive world of The Legend of Zelda. He began with the older 8-bit titles, including “The Minish Cap,” before discovering the transformative experience of “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.”

The Breath of the Wild: A Game-Changer

Breath of the Wild’s Impact

Matarazzo shared his profound appreciation for “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” a game that changed the landscape of open-world gaming. This title not only captivated him but also introduced a new level of depth and complexity to the series, making it more accessible and engaging for both new and experienced players.

The Accessibility Factor

Nintendo’s knack for crafting games with accessibility in mind did not go unnoticed by Matarazzo. He praised the company for designing games that cater to a wide range of players, allowing even newcomers to enjoy the experience. “Breath of the Wild” and “Tears of the Kingdom” exemplified this philosophy, providing a gentle learning curve and ample freedom for players to explore.

Gaming Favorites: Matarazzo’s Top Picks

Tears of the Kingdom’s Brilliance

Gaten Matarazzo’s favorite among the Zelda series is “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.” He commended the game for expanding the franchise’s already vast world, a remarkable achievement given the high bar set by “Breath of the Wild.” The game’s brilliance lies in its ability to offer players a world that is both familiar and entirely new, captivating fans old and new.

The Building Mechanic

Some fans had reservations about the building mechanics introduced in “Tears of the Kingdom.” However, Matarazzo welcomed this feature, recognizing that Nintendo’s approach to gameplay allows players to gradually develop their skills. The game encourages players to think critically and problem-solve, making them feel accomplished as they progress.

The Legend of Zelda Movie: A Dream Come True

The Long-Awaited Movie

One of the most exciting moments in the interview was when Gaten Matarazzo discussed the announcement of the Legend of Zelda movie. He expressed his excitement and conveyed the significance of expanding the Zelda universe beyond video games.

Adapting Minimal Dialogue

The challenge of adapting a game like Zelda, known for its minimal character dialogue, into a live-action movie intrigued Matarazzo. He acknowledged the need for creativity in tackling this aspect and speculated that the film might explore a visual storytelling approach, something rarely seen in live-action adaptations of video games.

The Importance of Staying True

While considering various possibilities for the movie, Matarazzo emphasized the importance of preserving the essence of Zelda’s unique narrative style. He hoped that the film would maintain the vagueness and mystery found in “Breath of the Wild” and “Tears of the Kingdom,” appealing to the diverse preferences of the fanbase.

Casting Speculations: Who Should Play Link?

A Fresh Face for Link

When it comes to casting the iconic character Link for the Legend of Zelda movie, Gaten Matarazzo suggested the idea of casting someone relatively unknown. This approach could bring a fresh perspective to the character, allowing audiences to connect with a new interpretation of Link.

Gaten’s Reluctance to Play Link

Despite his passion for the Zelda franchise, Matarazzo ruled himself out for the role of Link. He expressed his desire to continue enjoying the games from his couch or during his travels, rather than taking on the daunting task of portraying such a beloved character on screen.

Conclusion

Gaten Matarazzo’s journey from a latecomer to the Legend of Zelda series to a passionate advocate for its expansion into a live-action movie is a testament to the timeless appeal and depth of this beloved gaming franchise. His insights into the games, his appreciation for Nintendo’s accessible design, and his hopes for the upcoming movie offer a unique perspective on what makes the Legend of Zelda a cultural phenomenon. As fans eagerly anticipate the release of the Legend of Zelda movie, Matarazzo’s enthusiasm reminds us of the magical connection that exists between gamers and the worlds they explore through their screens. Whether he’s on stage, on screen, or on a gaming adventure, Gaten Matarazzo continues to inspire us with his passion and talent.