Rediscovering The Legend of Zelda: Fan-Made NES Commercial Revives Classic Nintendo Memories

When Nintendo launched The Legend of Zelda for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in North America in 1987, the company’s marketing approach was as offbeat as it was memorable.

The initial commercial, featuring actor and comedian John Kassir dramatically reciting enemy names in a nearly pitch-black room, has become something of a cult classic among retro gaming fans.

However, its surreal style stood in stark contrast to the rich, adventurous spirit of Zelda—something players would only come to associate with the series over time. Despite The Legend of Zelda now boasting a legendary roster of characters and a deeply influential legacy, the original promotion scarcely captured the game’s imaginative essence.

Noticing this gap, the creative team behind Capsyst Animations undertook a personal project to bring the true heart of Zelda’s NES roots into the spotlight.

Reflecting on the project, Capsyst Animations explained in a recent YouTube post that their inspiration emerged from a childhood fondness for the evocative illustrations found at the beginning of the NES manual.

"As a kid, those early illustrations really captivated me, and it was disappointing to learn they never became part of any real animated marketing for The Legend of Zelda," said the creator.

"So I took it upon myself to reinterpret those classic images, crafting them into what could have been a 'lost' VHS promo for the beloved Nintendo Entertainment System title." Produced using Procreate and Procreate Dreams, the animated short—narrated by Streamy McDreamy—beautifully reimagines what an official 1980s Zelda commercial might have looked like with the game’s iconic manual art front and center.

The project not only pays homage to Nintendo’s earliest Zelda marketing efforts but also evokes an authentic sense of nostalgia, resonating with long-time fans and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. Since its debut, the fan-made video has garnered positive attention within the Nintendo community, celebrated for its faithful visual style and heartfelt approach.

The Legend of Zelda series itself has since become a cornerstone of gaming history.

As of 2023, franchise sales have surpassed 150 million units worldwide across Nintendo platforms, including the NES, Super Nintendo, Nintendo 64, GameCube, Wii, 3DS, Wii U, and the ever-popular Nintendo Switch via eShop and Nintendo Direct showcases.

The original NES title is regularly cited as one of the most influential games ever released, with its design and storytelling inspiring generations of players and developers. Capsyst Animations’ tribute not only highlights the enduring appeal of the Zelda franchise but also illustrates how fan creativity continues to breathe new life into classic Nintendo properties.

For those eager to revisit the magic of the series’ beginnings, this animated homage is a must-watch, serving as a heartfelt reminder of both the artistry behind early game manuals and the timeless allure of The Legend of Zelda.

Zelda Nintendo The Legend of Zelda Legend of Zelda NES Xbox Series X|S Capsyst Animations Procreate Procreate Dreams YouTube John Kassir