Latest Hyrule Warriors Video Showcases Newcomer Lana

Every other Hyrule Warriors announcement introduces new playable characters to the hack-and-slash festivities — and in a welcome change of tradition, each new character thus far has been female! Standing out amongst the cast of familiar faces is Lana, a new gal in the Zelda crew. Get acquainted with the blue-haired spellcaster with the above trailer from Tecmo Koei.

Lana's appearance on the game's box art indicates that she may play a major role in the story, but aside from that, we can only guess as to her purpose. It's quite possible that she is related to the game's villainess, Cia, in some fashion. It is also possible that she is the mortal form of the Goddess of Wisdom Naryu, one of three dieties that shaped the land of Hyrule. Her name could be taken from "Lanaryu," a region in Twilight Princess as well as a dragon in Skyward Sword both named after the goddess. Additionally, Naryu is associated with the color blue, and the oracle Naryu in Oracle of Ages had blue hair, making the connection that much more likely.

We'll learn more by the time Hyrule Warriors arrives on Wii U on September 26.