Nintendo is finally bringing us a new 2D Zelda title. Being developed by Capcom’s Flagship Studio (the same folks that brought us the GBC Zelda games) the Legend of Zelda: the Minish Cap is looking to up the ante, and bring us another classic title in the Zelda lineage.

Unsurprisingly, the Minish Cap puts players in control of the series main character Link. He then becomes friends with a bird like hat, or cap if you will, which may look like his normal hat, but it’s anything but. The hat can sometimes voice opinions, much like the fairy companions of the N64 games, on how to solve puzzles or mission objectives.

The cap also has some unique abilities aside from being able to talk. Link is now given the ability to shrink down to a minute size. There are several ways this plays out. Some segments make everything look bigger, much like the world in "Honey I Shrunk the Kids" (and if you haven’t seen that movie, it’s a classic go get it). There are other parts where you control a smaller Link in the regular sized world. When Link shrinks however, he won’t be alone, as there is a tiny race of people called, you guessed it: the Minish. They’ll help him out, and presumably send him on some kind of quest.

There’s a couple of new gameplay elements involved as well. One involves a bottle that has the ability to inflate and deflate. Link can use it to clear out dust or cobwebs, blow enemies to the side, or conrol rafts rocket power style. Link can also use it in conjunction with some strechy mushrooms, and use their elasticity to flink himself over a distance.

Link also has the option to collect “Kinstones.” Sometimes you’ll have to find pieces of them and bring them back to villagers, which will trigger an event, like a treasure chest appearing, or the introduction of a new character. There will be other uses as well, since Nintendo has said that the wireless adapter will be compatable with the game, so you can trade them up with your friends.

The Legend of Zelda: the Minish Cap is looking amazing. Flagship Studios and Nintendo were a great team once, and it looks like they’re going to be again come January.