Link Has a Secret Diary in Zelda Breath of the Wild

[@QuestWithAaron]

For those interested in reading all of the entries, I've composed a full translation of the complete Japanese Adventure Log on my Patreon! www.patreon.com/QuestWithAaron Hey everyone, I just want to clear up a few things! Firstly, I say that the Adventure Log is written in the third person, which is wrong. It should be the second person. My apologies for this mistake! Secondly, I would also like to clear up the lack of specificity in the first part of the video. Although we do not hear his voice when he speaks with others, in general Link is quite expressive. He demonstrates this in numerous ways throughout BotW's story. However in the memories that show the events before BotW, he shows minimal emotion and never speaks due to the pressure he feels from his duty - This is what I had intended to highlight. I appreciate I was unclear, sorry for this!

[@jimmykimble2529]

I understand the mistake because 2nd person is rarely used and then even more rarely talked about

[@psymar]

@@jimmykimble2529 You sure?

[@jimmykimble2529]

@@psymar sure about what?

[@heartsofgoldd7388]

Will we witness what Link feels? One of lives greatest questions

[@solarsunne4950]

Love when Link gets little bits of personality like this.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I think a diary like this is such an immersive way to naturally showcase more of Link's personality. I hope they adapt a diary approach in the future personally. I feel that I would prefer that rather that than giving him fully voiced lines.

[@maycontainnuts3127]

in older games, particularly in skyward sword, there would be a lot of personality shown by link through minor cues and reactions during cutscenes. something i missed a lot in BoTW.

[@_chaossss_9210]

It's so amazing to see him expressing emotions even though he's "the silent knight." And even the little clip at the end when Zelda is on her hands and knees in the field, and he gets down on his hands and knees to crawl next to and see what she's looking at, I just think that's sweet in its own way. Can't remember what they were doing for sure. I think it was looking at flowers. It's been a while since I've had to collect the memories, but I just think it's cute and sort of expressing that he wants to.. See what she's thinking and try to figure it out himself or figure out her interests. Overall, I love the relationship development between Link and Zelda that we see in BotW and Hyrule Warriors! (P.S. Sorry for the long freaking paragraph)

[@_chaossss_9210]

@@QuestWithAaron I agree, completely. It would be cool to hear him saying little things, even just "Zelda" Rather than full lines. It gives players more to think about

[@eefle_weefle]

English Quest Log: You need to save Zelda Japanese Quest Log: I need to save Zelda *Indep Carecter Dvelopmnt*

[@kingwillthe1st753]

I suppose since it’s the English language you should say it’s English

[@sonicthewerehog2263]

The Japanese ver makes more sense to his character

[@bennycaustic5102]

Damn he has like a soul or something I think.

[@TonkarzOfSolSystem]

Technically it doesn't say "I", the "I" is merely implied. That said many other journal entries are actually clearly written from Link's first person perspective including his wants and desires, such as to see Zelda's smiles again.

[@eefle_weefle]

@@kingwillthe1st753 oh actually true

[@ParadiseBirdAngel]

I wish the would've kept this for all versions not just japanese

[@QuestWithAaron]

Me too!! I feel like it adds so much more to the game

[@anitamihholap5926]

It's in russian version too, so it must be in some other as well, no?

[@angelhernandezvega6064]

I believe only the English version removed it

[@guychensn]

In Chinese version it is also in third person (which is weird, as the text in Chinese version seems translated from Japanese version rather than English version)

[@angelhernandezvega6064]

@@guychensn damn

[@loveanuy]

I hope in BOTW2 the English translation stays true to the Japanese dialogue. It's a shame that they didn't for this game. We see so much of Zelda's thoughts, emotions and struggles but lost all of that in Link's end in the English version. I knew that the Japanese version of the quest log was written by Link in first person but I didn't ever know what was written so thanks for translating some bits. Especially the one after collecting all 13 memories where Link says he wishes to see Zelda smile again. It makes the true ending when Zelda smiles SO much more meaningful and impactful!

[@QuestWithAaron]

I really hope so too! We'll have to wait and see what happens with the sequel... fingers crossed! I'm glad you enjoyed the video, and you are so right about the true ending. After all the struggles, in the end, Link's wish was fulfilled! Too bad there's no entry for after you complete the quest Destroy Ganon, I'd love to see that.

[@pan9366]

I'll like that too... but I don't think the sequel will stay exactly as the japanese version :(

[@AarturoSc]

With the Tree House localizing… Fat chance!

[@theknight1573]

@Jake LaGotta There is a difference in losing some meaning in expressions, and completely removing all intended subtext tho... a word for word translation might not be possible, but as shown in this video way better translations are possible. I just hope there might one day be a mod with fan translations that actually correctly translate things

[@HenshinFanatic]

@@AarturoSc F Shit-endo Of Bidenmerica.

[@mildlyAnAlien]

Absolutely incredible. I feel having the quest log written in first person makes it so much more engaging giving more incentive to read it. I better start learning Japanease.

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you! I know right! I would have loved to see this in the English version. It's such a fascinating read.

[@anitamihholap5926]

You could just learn russian instead! Though it could be just as hard, so..

[@deivisony]

@@anitamihholap5926 Nah. It atleast has some roman letters.

[@anitamihholap5926]

@@deivisony a completely different alphabet for both. And both have words borrowed from English and other western languages.

[@ribuhman]

Learning Japanese? Wym? Just pay someone online to translate the text and change it in game as a mod.

[@geo_games_xd4339]

I hope in botw 2 we learn more about link childhood and his family 😔

[@QuestWithAaron]

That would be a treat! I hope so too!

[@krinka1915]

I hope we will...

[@Julia.Taunton-Clark99]

Link’s

[@AJB1224]

Also we hear his voice

[@WebkinzLiker264]

I would love to hear more about Link's past life! And to hear his voice too! I heard that since he woke up without his memories, his personality has changed a lot due to not remembering his duty as a "silent knight" so I wonder if he'll be different in the second game than how we know him now?

[@ShadowBanned-o_O]

Strange. Why would they change this!? Reading his own thoughts is so much more immersive, and we build more of a connection with the character. This was awesome info. Thanks for the upload!

[@anndroid5147]

I wonder if they thought that players would feel more immersed with the game over the character if the journal log was directly talking to "you"? But that's a concept that would be used in games where you create your own avatar. LoZ is not that kind of game, so mistakes were obviously made :/

[@fgvcosmic6752]

For anyone curious, the word "I" was never used in the Japanese version In japanese, pronouns can be implied if seen as obvious or unnecessary (i.e, I eat bread ---> Eat Bread, Are you ok --> Are ok?) This also omits pronouns. While it can be read as either first or second person, the general translation is to assume first person. But as neither was specified, neither are incorrect interpretations

[@Trickyenrogue]

I think because we are supposed to be “link”

[@skins4thewin]

It's all about the age old Japanese tradition of the silent protagonist. Japanese game developers seem to firmly believe that it adds to the game to allow the player to project themselves on to the main character, but I know that at least in America, that is a horrible idea as we usually do not find that to be interesting. It would be FAR more interesting to actually learn about this character Link and his story, his personality, his thoughts and feelings, vs actually trying to imagine that we are Link. Perhaps the Japanese have a far higher imaginative ability, but I have never found it even remotely possible to imagine myself as the main character when playing a game. It simply doesn't work & is just a bad idea in general if you ask me. It's a very, very outdated gaming philosophy that desperately needs to change.

[@_itsmunah]

You are the character. The player is link. That’s why they’ve never given link voice actors or had him really show emotion. This comes from the Zelda creators. They never did voice acting for this reason til now and they stayed true to giving everyone but link voice actors. I agree tho I’d rather read in first person.

[@Nighto]

I would genuinely read everything that thing had to offer if I knew what any of those symbols even meant lol They should've kept this for the English version.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I really wish they did too! They've changed and omitted so much from the Japanese version. It's a shame because I thought it was a really clever way to develop Link's character.

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron Like you omitted that no pronouns are used in the Japanese version? These videos feel more like pushing an anti-localisation agenda than actually being informative.

[@infinitecurlie]

​@@NuiYabuko omg go troll somewhere else no one cares and this video is over 2 years old.

[@ahumanbeingfromtheearth1502]

​@@NuiYabukothey aren't omitting anything. In Japanese, if you don't use any pronouns the assumption is that you are talking about yourself. Besides, the Japanese diary entries clearly talk about links thoughts and feelings. Putting them in first person woukd absolutely have been the most accurate way to translate the intent of the Japanese version.

[@Phoenixthesave]

Link:I don't know if I'll make it there in time Also link:let's make a town based on people who have the same end of their name

[@makeupbybabybear5352]

I'm literally doing that quest right now

[@neeklmamp4955]

He has his priorities straight

[@TheLegendsOfTamriel]

You can tell he clearly loves Zelda in BOTW. That's really cool how the Slate is his diary. Gonna start reading all the quest entries with I now

[@QuestWithAaron]

It does seem that he does feel something towards her for sure! Saying that you want to see someone's smile again with your own eyes is not something you just say to anyone!

[@troyweber569]

It's a nice start, but some of his examples show that even more information than just first person vs. third person is left out. What a shame...

[@Elden-Bear]

its not the slate

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

​​@@Elden-Bear , the sheikah slate, yes it is, a part of it

[@helloitsmemissjane]

"I want to hurry and rescue Princess Zelda as soon as possible and see her smile again with my own eyes" Zelda's smile at the end of the epilogue takes another meaning huhuhu

[@catherineroper3814]

I am a grandmother and my son's bought me a Switch along with two games so I can play with my grandson. Breath of The Wild and Animal Crossing. Wow! I am loving both games. Breath of The Wild has so many adventures and really gets my adrenaline going. I feel so many emotions while playing. No wonder gaming is such a hobby for so many. I raised three sons on my own and never had time to play video games with them. Thank you for this video and for allowing me to gain more insight to the game and Link.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I really appreciate you sharing this, it has truly made my day! Thank you! Your son has bought you some fantastic games for sure! The Legend of Zelda is such a wonderful game and has an amazing world to get immersed into. I'm so happy you're enjoying your adventure through Hyrule! Has it inspired you to try out other Zelda games too? I'd love to hear your thoughts. I'm so happy you enjoyed the video, thank you!

[@manamimochizuki4714]

The "Adventure log" is called in Russian "Дневник" ("Diary") and it is also written in first person. Actually the Russian translation is based on the Japanese version, so "Russian" Ravioli is just laughing at the end of this cutscene :)

[@QuestWithAaron]

That's so interesting and awesome how the Russian version is the same as the Japanese version! I'm not really sure why they added subtitles for Revali in English like that... He clearly just laughs lol. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@matthewblasch2154]

@@QuestWithAaron The subtitles in English are just the captions from the dub. That's why.

[@Solais1019]

Ravioli... Now we need a food parody of BotW.

[@gundle_dx]

Приятно видеть земляков в таких далёких уголках тырнетов :)

[@manamimochizuki4714]

@@gundle_dx А мне как приятно видеть тебя здесь!))

[@chrispork1443]

Zelda actually quoted something Link told her at the beginning of that memory: “Be sure to take the time to soothe your mount. That’s the only way he’ll know how you truly feel.” I think Nintendo is trying their hardest to clear the misconception that Link is mute when in reality, he talks, but he’s unvoiced and has no dialogue boxes of his own except for the responses the player can choose.

[@QuestWithAaron]

Exactly! This means that Link must have spoken with her. Nintendo has basically indirectly confirmed that Link is capable of speech, but its all happening outside of the cutscenes we've access to. The dialogue boxes are interesting too actually. It seems Nintendo really wants us to feel that we're the ones answering, but in reality we just choose how Link responds.

[@chrispork1443]

@@QuestWithAaron Also, Link having no dialogue boxes is actually that it’s very rare, and it’s likely him thinking to himself instead of talking aloud. One example I could think of is Paya’s Diary: “Looks like Paya’s Diary. Must not look… Must not look…” Of course, the player makes him read it. I’m sure he feels guilty afterwards. And there’s the roasted porgy near a campfire in Lurelin: “These grilled fish look really good. I wonder if they were caught locally.” But this one is missed if there’s a villager nearby, who asks Link if he likes fish and allows him to take and eat them for free.

[@dumbperson2139]

@@chrispork1443 I thought the paya diary thing was paya writing must not look but that make more sense

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

​@@QuestWithAaron , and it is also confirmed in Zelda's diary, when she says that she wants to speak with him and she does, and when she asked him even though she saw that it was a hard for him (this is said by Zelda) Link told her why he was so quiet and keeping his thoughts and feelings to himself, his insecurities and fears and the pressure and expectations that he had and felt upon him, he only opened up to her and told her about this, he didn't do this with anyone, not even with Mipha, and then Zelda realized how much in common they had, and she also said that she understood that feeling all too well, and that she of course was wrong about him

[@petrushka1642]

So Japanese ship Zelda and link

[@QuestWithAaron]

It certainly does feel like it's leaning that way! There are loads of diary entries that subtlety point to it. He takes his role of Zelda's personal Knight very seriously yet personally.

[@Rjedij504]

What good people

[@Lulleebee]

Isn’t it canon? I’m a little confused

[@JarumaruKnox]

@@Lulleebee of course it is canon. It’s japanese (more originality you’ll never get) ✌🏻✨

[@PrivateLZG]

Well, not only japanese but all of Nintendo, it's just that translators probably understood something wrong... I mean the game was originally created in Japanese...

[@sheviking1723]

6:08 'I get the feeling that the sword itself is delighted that I've come to retrieve it.' 'Yes Master Link. I believe I am once again experiencing what you call happiness.'

[@firefly5934]

God d***it-

[@HaniEllein]

Fi 🥺

[@derrickdaniels3955]

We were robbed 😤

[@anabelle6312]

The japanese translations make me confident that Link has feelings for zelda "I want to see her smile again with these eyes of my own" I mean cmon! Who knew Link was so romantic!

[@andres6221]

The Ship of Link and Zelda (ZeLink) is canon 👏👏👏👏

[@andres6221]

Is canon 👏👏👏

[@andres6221]

Is canon 👏👏👏

[@corinnebloom7005]

@@andres6221 Is canon

[@sabrinabarbosa716]

@@andres6221 Is canon

[@genesisstarr_]

could not stop laughing when you added the clip of revali apparently saying "good luck sealing the darkness" when he was actually just laughing. not sure what made it so funny but i had to show my dad too. amazing video!! i was shocked to see that you didn't have more subscribers!

[@QuestWithAaron]

I love that cutscene so much too! The first time I played BotW was with Japanese voices and English subtitles, and when it played that cutscene it really caught me off guard! I remember thinking back when I was making this video that I had to include the clip somehow. I'm super happy you enjoyed the video, thank you! :D

[@matthewblasch2154]

I've been working on a translation project for the spoken dialogue of both Breath of the Wild and Age of Calamity. From what I've already seen, the English dub conveys much of the same information but can order it differently and has to make sacrifices to match lips. I will give the dub this, the DLC and Age of Calamity are much closer to the Japanese text than Breath of the Wild's base story. They're improving somewhat. By the way, 相棒 (Aibō) literally does mean "partner," but it can also mean accomplice or pal. The first character on its own means mutual. I choose to translate the whole word as "buddy."

[@QuestWithAaron]

That sounds like an amazing project! I wish you good luck with it! I agree the English dub does convey mostly the same information, but words it differently for the reason you mentioned. There do seem to be a few parts in English that that convey the wrong information entirely though, like the cutscene that tells the player that Ganon has given up on revival and assumed an ultimate malice form. Whereas the Japanese version says that his malice form was representative of his strong refusal of giving up on revival. I think translating 相棒 as buddy is also a wonderful choice! It fits their relationship very nicely too!

[@matthewblasch2154]

​@@QuestWithAaron I just looked at the text from the scene described, and it's 100% on point with what you said. Here's another story: I remember being intrigued upon seeing the English text giving Calamity Ganon the title of "Hatred and Malice Incarnate." Then I got to collect the line "憎悪と怨念の権化" and discovered that the English version used identical word choice for the whole phrase. It's weird how it works out sometimes.

[@edreimin99]

I would love to see that too! I guess I'll come back for this comment sometime in the future for a link of some sort lol. Awesome project BTW, hope the best for ya

[@matthewblasch2154]

@@edreimin99 KZbin autodeleted my previous comment, so I'll try again. If you go to the My Age of Calamity Database video's description, you'll find a link.

[@NuiYabuko]

Localisation isn't translation, a concept that seems hard for people to grasp.

[@IamayMizono]

Now I'm mad, I know Link is supposed to be a blank slate to "project the player into the game" or whatever, but the Japanese dialog adds so much to his character! I wish this was in the English version, he can stay a silent protagonist but just give us a little poke into his character. For me this actually has the opposite effect, I can "put myself into the story" better if I can empathize with the characters is they show emotion and have a harder time getting deeper into the game if I can't.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I agree with you, I also feel the same way!

[@cjkula]

darn! why would they butcher the english translation like that and make it so impersonal?!? they've robbed us of something! Link is supposed to be our link to the game world right? how does having our character write about the quests and experiences we encounter in the game world, in the 1st person, not do exactly that? when we read 1st person accounts of things from our character, we are reading "I", "me", "we", and such. how does that not make it all a much more engaging and personal experience? yes, I absolutely want to check my quest log and read about how "I" encountered a person in the woods, and about how they told "me" about a secret in the caves! bad move on Nintendos part!

[@QuestWithAaron]

I completely agree that the first person narrative makes the game and the story way more immersive in more ways than one. It gives link a deeper character while also connecting him to us on a more personal level. What better way to do that than through a diary, right? I truly hope we get something like this in future games that allow us to essentially link with Link on his/our adventure!

[@Rabbitzan]

I agree they fudged it all up tbh. As they do with everything. They always want their version to be the special one and rob everyone else of that beautiful version. So rude and inconsiderate.

[@fgvcosmic6752]

For anyone curious, the word "I" was never used in the Japanese version In japanese, pronouns can be implied if seen as obvious or unnecessary (i.e, I eat bread ---> Eat Bread, Are you ok --> Are ok?) This also omits pronouns. While it can be read as either first or second person, the general translation is to assume first person. But as neither was specified, neither are incorrect interpretations

[@FlowerPower-cf2fp]

@@QuestWithAaron I think I'm immersed enough with all the hours spent playing the game. They need to keep link a little less pinned down so we can use our imaginations an create the link we each want rather than be spoon-fed everything. I'd like more lore and perhaps exploration of the mysterious Zonai.

[@peteypete9357]

This was done because Karens would've gotten mad thinking that the game would be sexist for giving Link thoughts

[@_-insertname-_]

I’m not even mad that they changed the “I” to “you” but just straight up cutting all these little personal comments is just sad So thanks, this is a really cool video

[@debby5286]

why in the world did they change that in translation, it adds so much!

[@rockmanlamar]

Because the English translation team at Nintendo America are stupid! They do this to all of the Zelda games.... the worst case I remember personally is the translation of what the Hero's Shade says in the Japanese version contrasted to the American version.

[@talah6651]

@@rockmanlamar what was the difference? 😲

[@rockmanlamar]

@@talah6651 In the American they add lines about him regretting not being remembered as a hero... that is NOWHERE in the Japanese version. In the Japanese version he just says he regrets never passing on his knowledge. Plus things in the game contradict the line from the American version because several ppl in game know the legend of the hero of time.

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@rockmanlamar You are aware that the original text could change after a translation is done and that's where discrepancies could come from? But easier to insult people as stupid. Going only by the letter is also not how translations work.

[@nathanpatera9836]

I would have been a lot less hesistant to wear the Champion's tunic during my first playthrough if this was written in first person. I only wanted Link to wear it if he sincerely remembered her, and the 3rd person didn't make me sense that.. I'm really upset at who made this translation decision. The game would probably have been even more motivating to play if it felt like a diary rather than a log.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I sincerely hope they adapt a diary approach for the sequel! That's so interesting what you say about the Champions Tunic. I really feel that having a diary instead of a generic progress update system as the quest log is way more immersive! It really makes you think about even the smaller things like what you mentioned.

[@skins4thewin]

Couldn't agree more. This was a horrible decision by Nintendo to change this.

[@cheddarsunchipsyes8144]

@@QuestWithAaronand they made the horrible decision again. It was actually so annoying when I found out that I stopped playing out of disappointment. I had to push myself to finish the great sky island knowing that the entire game I would be missing out on the thoughts of the character I was literally playing as

[@InkdaditumGD]

In the german version the "Quest log" is called "Tagebuch" in english diary

[@QuestWithAaron]

That's super interesting that it's actually called "Diary" in German! Even in Japanese it's called Adventure Agenda/Planner. Having it being called "Diary" makes it feel more personal!

[@zeithqueen5044]

He doesn't need to speak, but when he does it... He DOES IT

[@Zinkolo]

I don't bother in naming link anything other than link so I appreciate having his quiet personality flesh out a little without it being too much. I want him to be the quiet but somewhat expressive. He is very unique in that way. Not just because we project unto him but that he suffers from being so weirdly unique in that he speaks little but he connects the people around him with his heroic deeds~

[@QuestWithAaron]

I really love the uniqueness to Link's character. Personally I hope they don't give him voiced lines in the sequel. I'm actually kind of nervous for it lol. I like the subtle things and the expressive moments he does have makes it feel even more special imo

[@Zinkolo]

@@QuestWithAaron precisely I couldn't agree more!!

[@zues121510]

I'd actually replay breath of the wild if someone made a mod with translated quest logs and more accurate subtitles

[@QuestWithAaron]

That sounds fun! I'd be up for contributing to such a project. I'm not experienced with making mods myself though.

[@zues121510]

@@QuestWithAaron yeah, it would be hard and not a lot of people would be able to mod their game. Afaik only people playing Wii u emulators can do this.

[@fgvcosmic6752]

For anyone curious, the word "I" was never used in the Japanese version In japanese, pronouns can be implied if seen as obvious or unnecessary (i.e, I eat bread ---> Eat Bread, Are you ok --> Are ok?) This also omits pronouns. While it can be read as either first or second person, the general translation is to assume first person. But as neither was specified, neither are incorrect interpretations

[@DennisComella]

It seems like the translators just made a specific choice. Perhaps a more passive tense would be appropriate, without using pronouns "I" or "you"... thus allowing the player to decide the author of the text?

[@geminisfl]

As I understand, the general consensus is that if you don't state the opposite, It's assumed in japanese you're sepaking in first person if you don't use any other pronoun (and paying atention to the context too, of course)

[@Alizudo]

Even if no pronouns are used, context supercedes. If it just says "desire to see her smile", the character is clearly talking in first person. So no, the English translation we got is very much an IN-correct interpretation.

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@DennisComella It's likely based on other translations, like Link's house being displayed as Your House on the map.

[@bedsgaming9499]

Many people debate whether Link loves Zelda or Mipha. What does the Japanese say in the finished “Divine Beast Vah Ruta” quest?

[@QuestWithAaron]

Very true! I quite like Mipha and I also feel bad for her. This topic sounds like something really interesting to explore. I'll have a look at the Japanese too!

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

It doesn't really say anything important that shows his feelings back, of course Mipha shows them, that was clear, but not Link, although in the quest he says that he has to prove to Muzu that he was the loved one of Mipha so he can gain his help and support, but not that Link feels the same way, but that Mipha did felt that and some Zora, esencially Mipha's father and brother told Link how important he was to her and he had to prove it to Muzu who didn't believe that and that she loved Link a hylian, to gain his support and the support of the Zora elders in general

[@CaloysKeyboards]

Link speaks to NPCs through dialogue choices and he can be pretty cheeky in those hehe

[@subzippo]

Its heartbreaking to see how they butchered this translation. Thank you for posting this.

[@chickennuggies906]

so basically link has selective mutism just like me

[@goodnightmyprince6734]

Based, I can bearly talk in public. Let alone with a phone. 😭😭😭

[@chadnorris8257]

I wish we got the more personalized journal in english. That would be more immersive.

[@QuestWithAaron]

Me too! Let's hope for the sequel! :D

[@GeomancerFelix]

Things we can gloss from the Japanese version as well: Hope, doubt, gratitude, gladness, humor...perhaps appreciation and admiration? He's still stoic for choosing to suppress, but he's not unfeeling. This is a comforting discovery.

[@goblinbabe]

I’ve been starved of Zelda content thank you 🤧

[@EnderPanReigns]

“hA hA h a hA!” -Revali

[@Evaix]

Great video! Glad I decided to tell you that it may have been written by Link!

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you so much! Let's explore more!

[@itachi2011100]

When I saw a speed run in Japanese I noticed that some of the dialogue seemed different than what I remember in English so I decided to replay the entire game with Japanese audio, it really changed my perspective on a few things. One big thing I noticed was how different Revali's character is in Japanese. Another thing was that that in Japanese Mipha's "power" is called Mipha's prayer showing that Mipha was praying for Link's safety to invoke her healing powers. That explains what we see in the Memory at West Nuclear Gate. On the other hand the English version "Mipha's grace" didn't make much sense to me

[@QuestWithAaron]

When you replay it in Japanese, the differences become very distinct don't they? There are definitely completely different vibes to be felt depending on the version. The Mipha topic you bring up is something I've noticed too! I actually did an entire video covering exactly that on my channel! I feel like Mipha's character was really mellowed down in English.

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron Mellowed down as opposed to super shy almost whispery Mipha?

[@matthewblasch2154]

I've returned to let everyone know that I've completed the first phase of my translation project. It's on my channel and available as a playlist. Here's the order: Plateau Hour of the Red Moon Impa Finding the Master Sword Pictured Memories Getting the Master Sword I also discovered that the memory descriptions are undoubtedly written in the third person in the original Japanese.

[@willisrose9756]

You sir are a God, hope you'll make more for the other zelda games!

[@matthewblasch2154]

@@willisrose9756 I'm only doing translations on the voice acting. Therefore, my work will just include Breath of the Wild, the sequel, and Age of Calamity.

[@BerserkerNosaj]

I’ve definitely heard of this before, but I don’t remember the other videos on Links diary showing so many of the translations, this was incredible!

[@plvmbvm513]

The subject is actually often omitted from the sentence in japanese. So in the quest log, it doesnt actually say **i** want to save princess zelda, at least not explicitly. The interesting thing here is that it kind of reads the same whether the log is written by/to "you" or link Edit: that much said, I do find the last sentence of the quest log rather interesting: 彼女の笑顔をもう一度この目で見たい Still no explicit subject, but it more or less says "to see that girl's smiling face once again with these eyes." If ya boi link was the one who wrote that, he's got some serious game!

[@QuestWithAaron]

You're absolutely right! I think that's one of the wonderful things about Japanese, it leaves the author ambiguous, in a way that we can't quite do with English. Haha, for sure! He seems to be quite the romantic!

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron You say after making a video stating it's a diary written in first person? You can't just omit that no first person pronoun is used and therefore You is just as valid an interpretation.

[@Rabbitzan]

I personally always see link and Zelda as just friends. That is my honest feelings about that. But it is interesting to see some of Link's own thoughts lol 🤣😂.

[@phykoha]

He had so much character that was stripped away with the transition to the official English version. I really wish they kept all that, it would’ve made Link so much more personable and enjoyable as a character. Though I guess Link is supposed to be someone you insert yourself into to immerse into the game, he’s been made his own, separate character from the player due to the cutscenes and being unable to name him yourself. Just let Link be his own person, Nintendo!

[@QuestWithAaron]

Balancing Link as the "link" that connects the player to the character and his own individual personality is definitely tricky to do!

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron It's not, he has been his own character for decades now.

[@grindkagethefirst5975]

Honestly , this is crazy I never ever thought like that for the sheikah slate details , and it all makes sense it’s Link’s actual diary which is really cool

[@The_Admiral_Angel]

One of the things I loved about the later Ys games, starting with Memories of Celceta, was that the main and side objectives would be written by Adol himself in first person. While it wasn't anything deep or emotional, it did give Adol a bit more character despite him being a mostly silent protagonist. The same thing applies to the few out of many travelogues he's written. It's shown in his journals and travelogues that he really loves his life as an adventurer. The Pikmin games are another good example with the protagonists giving their thoughts at the end of each day. Whether it's Olimar determined to escape the planet he crash-landed on so he can see his family again, or the Koppaites leaders in Pikmin 3 finding all the fruit on the planet to save their own from starvation. I'd love for the same thing to be in Tears of the Kingdom's localization, but I'm doubting that'll be the case.

[@cascadianham]

Been eating up any Zelda content for the last couple of years and this is by far some of the best I've seen. Almost shocked I've never heard about these translation changes after the years of digging the Zelda community has done on the story. Great execution on it.

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you so much!

[@bababooey2247]

So glad you're not just a guy running this through a translator, and instead someone with a passion for language.

[@danielnovak6529]

Very good editing and overall video quality, I'm impressed!

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you, my friend, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@Djpartypon64]

I actually like how in the Japanese version it’s “ I “ instead of “ you “ because this let’s me know that Link it telling the adventures that he’s been on. Although I kinda wish they used a first person POV for the side quests, shrine quest, and main quest because this will give an idea of Link and how he truly feels. Link isn’t emotionless, he does have emotions ( I just see him as someone who’s either shy or does want to open up just worried what those might think )

[@smcb9979]

hey, thank you so much for going to the effort to put this together!! I found that old forum post that talked about the tense differences between languages in the log YEARS ago and I've been eager for someone to go through it all properly ever since, but thought that was just wistful thinking. this is awesome of you to do

[@QuestWithAaron]

You're welcome and thank you! Yeah I was kind of surprised that this whole thing hasn't been explored more yet, it's so interesting!

[@daleafdave7847]

I dunno, I was expecting Links Diary more like: Hyahh! Hyahh! Hyuaa, Hyeiya! Hyei?

[@milkjuggs9497]

Ugh it feels like we're missing out on a big part of the game and links character :(

[@chrispork1443]

I think Daruk nicknaming Link “little guy” sounds better. Either way, the Goron and Hylian are like brothers.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I like "little guy" too as it fits very well considering their difference in size and relationship! I think "partner" can also be appreciated as they are both champions. Daruk acknowledges Link as his partner in defeating Ganon. Gosh I love Daruk he's so lovable and good to Link! I should have also pointed out in the video that in the quest where Link mimics the way Gorons speak, he says brother and "goro" in the same sentence in the Japanese version! It just seems that the English version adds more "brothers" to make up for all the times "goro" has been cut.

[@GcorpCoPrez]

@@QuestWithAaron my eyes saw the word Groose instead of Goron. Im like Link mimicked him!?

[@solomonstudios7462]

Daruk is by far my favorite champion

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron Goro wasn't cut, they just used Brother instead.

[@mypersonalhodgepodge]

Revali in English: Good luck sealing the darkness! Revali in the original: *HAHAHAHAHAHA*

[@marianamora4203]

Ever since reading Zelda's diary entry where she reveals Link's reason for being so stoic has made me fascinated with all the ways they game devs clue you into Link's personality. I've spent so much time playing botw trying to grasp Link's personality through his dialogue options in game when he interacts with npcs and all the many often overlooked animations he has in the game. It's a real bummer that they lost this aspect of his character in the english translation I would love to be able to read everything from Link's perspective to really understand his character.

[@QuestWithAaron]

I feel the same way! When I read Zelda's diary for the first time on my playthrough, I became much more fascinated and intrigued about Link and his true personality. There are so many interactions with NPC's Link has in BotW, many that are also often overlooked as you mentioned. I'm excited to share even more interesting insight into Link's character for you in future videos too! Back to investigating to see what else we could have missed!

[@Xx_lYlYl_xX]

I have watched so many botw videos but this by far is a game changer in my opinion. This is one of Nintendo's best Zelda games that gives us more insight of link which I feel is super cool. I wish they had translated it as so in English but it's pretty cool to know the Japanese version basically ships link and Zelda.

[@QuestWithAaron]

It does feel that they do for sure! Perhaps we may see some development in the sequel? Fingers crossed!

[@doloresgronenberg5882]

​@@QuestWithAaron , I would also like that a lot and I hope for that

[@jamestheviking983]

This was great! I’d love to see more of this type of thing.

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you! I'd love to cover a lot more of this in follow-up videos. Where to start!

[@turquoisemaple]

when game devs say games are put together with a lot of glue and prayers, that also applies to the localization process :')

[@sarahchahboun6199]

More contents about Link!

[@QuestWithAaron]

More are on the way!

[@linksapprentice726]

Since link already broke his vow of silence is botw (after he wakes up) I hope he speaks in botw2, not constantly but just enough to occasionally make an impact, I imagine he would occasionally have voice dialogue for side things, for example joking with the people in the gerudo cantina about being 118 and stuff

[@DinsFlame-br4pr]

How on earth were they even ALLOWED to change the translations from Japanese to English this much !? surely, Nintendo wouldn’t have been ok with this you’d think?? reading Link his own entry changes so darn much! .. honestly, this is so frustrating! 😂 1000x thank you Aaron for revealing this too us !!

[@NuiYabuko]

Of course they are okay, because they actually understand what goes into localisation.

[@DinsFlame-br4pr]

@@NuiYabuko They’re not. Reading Link’s journal would have been better then the 3rd person boring information we see on the screen. Lol, localization and translating a Japanese journal into an English journal are two different things buddy.

[@PANICBLADE]

LINK THROWING SHADE AT THE GUT CHECK CREW AND ADDING "GORO" TO THE END OF WHAT HE SAYS IS WHAT I NEEDED TODAY.

[@ayrtondeleon101]

Maybe it would be a good idea to have the option to switch from second and first person, for the people who want Link to have a character, and for the people that want to keep Link as an player self-insert (and there is nothing wrong with that.)

[@lizzdoestalent6359]

It is my head canon that Link was forced by his father to become a knight of Hyrule. Just because he was following his father's footsteps, doesn't mean that he wanted to. Maybe he and his father got into a huge argument and he stayed silent because he feared that would not want to be listened to. He didn't want want Zelda to go down the same path so he encourages her to stay true to herself. Before you ask, yes I might write a fanfiction based on this theory.

[@QuestWithAaron]

You definitely should! There is so much interesting theory to explore there, and it sounds like you've got some brilliant ideas. Hopefully in the sequel, more light will be shed on Link's family and his opinion of them. In the cutscene where Zelda sits under a tree in the rain while Link is practising the sword, she tells him that his path mirrors that of his fathers. I'm really curious to know more, I really wish Zelda elaborated a little more there!

[@WebkinzLiker264]

That sounds like a pretty interesting idea!

[@matthewblasch2154]

I've looked at how Memory #11 was in Japanese, and it has Zelda mentioning that Link chose to become a knight like his father and was endlessly committed to refining his skills. She then asked Link, "If you were to not have any talent in swordsmanship, but people around you say, 'You were born in the guard's house, so you must be a knight.' If they kept telling you that, what do you think you would have done?" As often as the English version diverged from the original, they did an okay job with that memory.

[@skins4thewin]

Not a good theory considering it's completely wrong as the game already explained why he is silent.

[@WebkinzLiker264]

@@skins4thewin That doesn't really have much to do with the fact that he's silent, it is just a deeper dive into his past. Also it could be another cause for him to be silent, if anything.

[@immimregit]

Wow. I'm Japanese and have always played BotW in Japanese and I've had no idea there is such a great difference in the English version. Now I'm so curious and want to play it again in English. Thank you for your work and I'm gonna watch the part 2 right away!

[@QuestWithAaron]

Definitely give it another playthrough in English! That is exactly what I did when I found out about the differences myself lol, except this time I jumped into the Japanese version. Everything from the cutscenes, quest log, dialogue and even the quest content themselves are different. Some more so than others!

[@NuiYabuko]

​@@QuestWithAaron You act like they outright rewrote the game, which they didn't.

[@infinitecurlie]

​​@@NuiYabuko You must have a lot of your time on your hands (apparently so do I) to scroll down through this comment section and be an asshole to the content creator. Don't know what you're trying to accomplish but it's not going to work, certainly not on a 2yr old video. Go troll and be an asshole elsewhere.

[@jmsgridiron5628]

BOTW is the 2nd Zelda game I ever played and honestly it is one of my favorite games of all time. It is a very tough but fair game and every victory feels well earned. Not to mention the scenery is absolutely gorgeous.

[@QuestWithAaron]

It's so atmospheric and is such a wonderful world to get completely immersed in isn't it? I can't wait to see what they do with the sequel!

[@jmsgridiron5628]

@@QuestWithAaron it's the perfect balance of immersion and tough but rewarding gameplay

[@WannaTasteLife]

Amazing!! Glad you made more of those videos! THANKS! Keep up. It's so important. The Zelda series is a true masterpiece full of gems of many kinds! Could you make a video sharing your analysis of the true Japanese meaning of the meaningful words of Rauru, Sheik/Zelda and all other sages in Ocarina of Time? This game is so full philosophical content. Majora's Mask too but Ocarina of Time seems to be even more so. And it's poetical tone makes it even more special to me.

[@mangolie21]

That was a nice and informative video! That may be a nitpick, but I think the music in the background was a bit loud though. I'm gonna check out more of your content, keep it up!

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you very much for your feedback! I agree that the BGM is a little too loud, especially in some parts. I'll keep this in mind for the next one!

[@phirionwolf]

Ahh this makes me feel I’m missing so much in the game! As much as I love the exploration and fighting, the story is really important to me too! Even small little details like these

[@amethyst_the_rainwing]

Nobody: Revali at 9:29 : hAhAhAhAhA

[@themjjolnir7273]

Good vidéo too. That's what i was talking about. I played all my japanese games with the JP original voice acting, that's why the translation felt so odd. But thanks to you i already have a better understanding of this game and sée it with brand New eyes. Gonna watch the others too 😁

[@ChesuMori]

Wow, so not even Link likes the localized voice acting?

[@ryandunham1047]

Wow! Link has a bit of a sassy streak in Test of Will! 😅😂

[@jessica-ov6js]

The Japanese version is so much better! I've seen a few videos now and I don't understand why they have changed so much? It gives us a deeper understanding in so much things. Thank you for making these videos, I really enjoy them!

[@evanjunkins3474]

dude this gave me a different at link he reminds me a lot of myself and this videos explains a lot thanks

[@SidusAstrum]

Notice how link is always MOST EXPRESSIVE with Zelda in most games

[@MicaelHD]

Japanese: *Hahahahaha!!* English: *My whole present being wishes your person finds success while performing the act of locking away the absence of light!*

[@pensiveshipper4384]

You ever just make food and stare at Link being happy for as long as you can, taking in how he loves food, the best best food just makes his mouth water? You ever hope he gets to show more emotion more ofter in future games? You ever try to create z voice for him through listening to him yelling to hear how he sounds whilsts reading his diary? No, just me? Dang. I thought we were making a connection, my bad!

[@aubrey2629]

I am so glad i found this video, otherwise i would have never known

[@CaptainSoftboy501]

Man I'm so sad we lost the intimacy of links thoughts in translation. I would love to know more of how he thinks and what the differences are in general with other characters ;3;;

[@QuestWithAaron]

I've kept your comment in mind - I have a new video in production that focuses on a particular character! I'm looking forward to sharing it with you.

[@oliverlockhart807]

“He needs to speak, or at least write something down.” Lmao Link can do that?

[@QuestWithAaron]

I just spent the past 5 minutes trying to think if we've ever seen Link actually write something... I don't think we have, have we?

[@oliverlockhart807]

@@QuestWithAaron not that I am aware

[@notsans9995]

Its pretty humorus to think that link: Elite swordsman, savior of hyrule and servant to royal family and the gods, is an illiterate on top of being a mute lol. ....but still has the cognitive ability to navigate ancient maps, operate lost technology, and solve mystic puzzles.

[@chrisdavid735]

Thank you for the information.

[@WebkinzLiker264]

Oh wow, I really wish this could have stayed in the English translation! I wonder if that means that the entries aren't canon as Link writing them for the English copies of the game if you will... I guess that's for the player to decide.

[@creakytortoise7026]

You should have more subs this is too good

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm happy you enjoyed it and I'm excited to bring you more!

[@shadehunter2197]

This was great you are so underrated

[@QuestWithAaron]

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm really glad you enjoyed it!

[@StarlasAiko]

And there was absolutely no justifiable reason why the english version suffered these changes.

[@linksapprentice726]

Just found your channel! Your production value is already so high! I think you could be one of the greats (mnb, zeltic, nbc, Hyrule gamer, monster maze, xeno and such)

[@calamaribowl8683]

Link in canon: strong, stalwart defender Me playing link: sorry there's a malice guardian? One sec I think I just saw a chest- wait no it's a log

[@stinkyboy]

I'm so glad I learned Japanese!! I was either way going to play master mode in japanese because of the differences in the translation and spoken dialogue during cutscenes but this video made me 100% more excited lol

[@wace9174]

Did u find anything interesting?

[@micaiahflores1592]

I hope you do a series on the Japanese version of either ocarina of time and or majoras mask To see how or if they differ from our crappy English version.

[@davidragan9233]

I think of him as like Oz from Buffy the Vampire Slayer in his speaking. Says little but when he speaks it is important.

[@heroofangst]

That Revali part KILLED me

[@chrissjackson6488]

The "you" perspective is 2nd person perspective, not 3rd person. It is often unused in writing, but done considerably in instructions due to the nature of the writing. I imagine there is a main reason why the japanese version doesn't do this. Because in the japanese language the word for "you" is seldom used for just that. It is either too personal as is the word "anata" directly translating to precious person, or too informal such as omae which once was extremely deferential, but has reversed it's meaning to now be derogatory, or is often substituted for the person's name, which would be impossible here. This may not be the whole story, but I imagine it played a role in the decision making for each version.

[@spongebobbatteries]

Taking the time to look for Endura Carrots during the siege on the castle is something only the bravest hero can do

[@777Rowen]

*Gasp*! 😯 I would’ve loved it if this was in the localized versions in the game! This is amazing! Thank you for sharing this with us! ❤️

[@QuestWithAaron]

Me too! You're welcome, I'm happy you enjoyed it :D

[@777Rowen]

@@QuestWithAaron 😊

[@jardineryczak2404]

u forgot the thouts like when link thinks "wow those cooked fish look really good i wonder if they were cought locally"

[@AdventureHusky]

I hope BOTW 2 gives us more Link backstory. Sure we have AOC now, but I want mooooooooooooooooore!

[@dnlswan]

I am so mad nintendo of america pulls these wild stunts in translation. It's so pivotal to the story. I don't really like the idea of making link feel like an abstract concept of a person to be filled in by the player. I feel like it's perfectly possible for link to both have a personality and us to be able to decide how we interpret ourselves as the interactive medium.