Link
A young engineer who travels by train and becomes the game's playable hero.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
Touch screen | Move Link or select an object Drag Link with the stylus; tap targets to interact. |
|---|---|
Touch screen | Attack with the sword Swipe across Link or an enemy to perform a slash. |
Touch screen | Perform a spin attack Draw a circle around Link when the technique is available. |
Touch screen | Use items and interact Tap usable objects, characters, switches, and inventory selections. |
Touch screen | Control the train Select a route and operate train controls on the touch screen. |
Control notes
The Nintendo DS touch screen and stylus are central to ordinary play.
Some abilities become available only after obtaining the relevant item or upgrade.
How it plays
How does The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks play?
The game uses a top-down perspective for towns, fields, and most dungeons. Link explores the world, solves environmental puzzles, fights enemies with stylus gestures, collects equipment, and seeks Force Gems and dungeon treasures.
The overworld is traversed by train. Players draw routes between stations, manage speed, avoid hazards, and complete travel encounters. Zelda's spirit can possess Phantoms in the Tower of Spirits, creating cooperative puzzles in which Link and Zelda must be directed together.
Progression comes from new items, dungeon victories, upgrades, rescued locations, and restored railway lines. The main adventure is single-player, with optional collection and side activities.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks?
Draw train routes before departing and watch the map for hazards, passengers, and enemies. In dungeons, mark switches, treasure locations, and unanswered paths on the map.
Use Zelda's Phantom abilities deliberately: different Phantom types interact with hazards in different ways. Upgrade the train and collect Force Gems when possible, since optional railway routes provide useful items and heart containers.
Against bosses, observe the attack pattern first and use the newest dungeon item at the intended distance or timing.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Princess Zelda
The princess of Hyrule whose spirit assists Link after her body is stolen.
Chancellor Cole
A deceptive royal adviser who conspires to resurrect the Demon King.
Byrne
Cole's powerful ally, whose motives and loyalties become central to the story.
Anjean
The wise Lokomo elder who guides Link and Zelda at the Tower of Spirits.
Alfonzo
Link's mentor and a skilled engineer who helps operate and improve the train.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Use the map to record puzzles and unexplored rooms.
- 2
Whistle near musical targets and track signals carefully during train journeys.
- 3
Practice short sword strokes and circular gestures before difficult fights.
Community discussion
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