The Talon Trot is a highly useful technique that is introduced early in the game and can be found in both Banjo-Kazooie and Banjo-Tooie. This move is taught by Bottles in Mumbo’s Mountain and is essential to traversing through steep slopes that are otherwise impossible to climb. By holding down the Z button and pressing the C left button, Kazooie extends her legs out of the backpack and enables Banjo to ride on her back while holding the Z button down. Not only does the Talon Trot ability allow for faster movement, but it also grants Banjo and Kazooie access to previously unreachable areas. In Banjo-Kazooie, players must learn this move to advance to the next area in Gruntilda’s Lair after completing Mumbo’s Mountain. Similarly, in Banjo-Tooie, Kazooie retains the Talon Trot’s slope-climbing move even when separated. In the game Banjo-Kazooie Grunty’s Revenge, Bozzeye on Breegull Beach teaches Banjo and Kazooie the same ability where players must hold down the L button and press the R button. Unlike its function in the previous games no buttons need to be held while running with this technique. The Talon Trot proves its worth and is a vital ability to master in order to progress through the game. Interestingly, Banjo-Kazooie Nuts and Bolts, does not include the Talon Trot. Kazooie expresses that she would use the Talon Trot if she could remember how, but later on, Lord of Games replaces the ability with a Trolley, which he deems as a more useful tool to complete Jiggy-Challenges and win the game. In the end, Lord of Games, eventually restores Kazooie’s abilities, showcasing the importance of this move. Overall the Talon Trot remains a crucial gameplay mechanic that allows players for greater mobility and exploration in the world of Banjo-Kazooie. Its retention across multiple games and its necessity to complete certain tasks in the game further highlight its significance to the game’s franchise.
