Waltz & Jam, currently in development by KRAFTON subsidiary Flyway Games, is a title that evokes memories of The Legend of Zelda. Oh Jin-hyung, the producer in charge of the game, describes it as a modernization of 'classic Zelda.' It is an approach that takes the beloved elements of past The Legend of Zelda titles—specifically A Link to the Past or Link's Awakening—and elevates their quality by applying modern techniques.

My hands-on experience confirms this. With a low barrier to entry suitable for all ages, a cohesive narrative from start to finish, and ingenious puzzles encountered throughout the adventure, the description of a 'modernized classic Zelda' feels well-earned.

More Than Just an Homage

If 'Waltz & Jam' felt like nothing more than an homage to classic Zelda, I wouldn't be particularly excited about the final version. The 'Zelda-like' formula is already well-established, and simply following it rarely results in anything more than a competent imitation. Where 'Waltz & Jam' stands out is in the unique 'twist' it adds to the various facets of the classic formula.

The first reason I am looking forward to the full game is the integrity of its story. 'The Legend of Zelda' typically follows a simple, clear narrative: a hero saves a princess. Deeper lore is often delivered indirectly through episodes or objects placed in the world.

'Waltz & Jam' is different. It layers the afterlife over the religious concept of the Seven Deadly Sins. As revealed early in the game, the player character appears to be a child. Beneath the cute exterior of a figure draped in a white cloth lies the premise of a child wandering through the world after death.

The combination of the Seven Deadly Sins, the afterlife, and a young protagonist creates a strange tension against the fairy-tale art style, leaving me constantly curious about the story's conclusion. It was a shame that this was only an early demo. It is a positive sign that the game centers on a compelling, self-contained story—a trend increasingly seen in recent domestic package games.

However, it was difficult to tell from the demo alone whether the game prioritizes narrative or gameplay. The early section focuses heavily on world-building and tutorials, making it too soon to judge where the weight truly lies.

Both approaches have their pros and cons. If the story is the focus, the game can fully lean into the weight of its themes, fitting well with an omnibus structure where each chapter tackles a specific sin. The trade-off is the pacing typical of narrative-driven games, where gameplay must occasionally wait for the story to unfold.

Conversely, if gameplay is the focus, the rhythm of puzzles and action will thrive, but there is a risk that the carefully crafted world-building will be relegated to mere background decoration. How 'Waltz & Jam' balances this in the final release will determine whether it lands as a 'well-made Zelda-like' or a 'discovery of the year.'

Classic Bones, Modern Flesh

The most immediate sign of a modern reinterpretation of classic Zelda is the camera work. While it is a top-down action-adventure, the perspective is not fixed; it shifts to a side-view in certain sections. This dynamic camera makes the familiar top-down formula feel much more vibrant. While classic Zelda showed the world from a single perspective, 'Waltz & Jam' seems to select the best angle for every scene.

The active use of physics is also notable. Beyond interactions with your companion, Jam, the NPCs, monsters, and objects all react physically to the player's actions. Jam's existence is arguably the game's defining identity. While 'Zelda' revolves around Link alone, 'Waltz & Jam' splits abilities between two characters. The unique gameplay requiring both characters to move in tandem will likely expand in the full version, and this two-person structure is the most distinct departure from classic Zelda.

On the other hand, there are fewer puzzles compared to the Zelda series, with a greater emphasis on platforming action. Sections requiring players to adjust jump height and navigate 3D terrain with varying elevations appear more frequently than expected. Classic Zelda fans hoping for deep, contemplative puzzles might be slightly disappointed, but those seeking tactile action will welcome the change. This aspect will likely be a matter of personal preference.

An 85-Point Vibe, and Beyond

After finishing the demo, I was left with curiosity rather than disappointment. I had barely scratched the surface of the first of seven 'seals,' and I couldn't stop wondering how the remaining six chapters would tackle their respective sins through puzzles and bosses, or what fate awaits the child who failed to ascend to heaven. If a demo can make you imagine the whole while showing only a part, it has done its job.

If I were to estimate a score for the final version, it feels like a 85 on Metacritic. The foundation—the proven classic Zelda formula—is solid, and the modern additions of dynamic camera work, physics, the two-person structure, and quality-of-life improvements are already well-implemented. If the narrative seeds of the Seven Deadly Sins, the afterlife, and the young protagonist bloom properly in the full game, it has the potential to aim for a 90, going beyond a mere classic Zelda-like.

In the Korean game industry, the classic Zelda-like is a genre rarely attempted. Based on the quality seen in this demo, 'Waltz & Jam' has the potential to be presented confidently not just domestically, but to global users who grew up with Zelda. The key will be the level of polish in the final product.