Prior to the launch of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, an array of rumors circulated—some more credible than others. Nearly two years post-launch, many of these whispers have faded from memory, yet a few remain significant, illustrating how keenly fans can interpret Nintendo’s intentions even from minimal information.
Interestingly, several of the most convincing rumors ultimately proved true. While some were presented without substantial backing, many predictions were validated upon the game’s release. Thus, while Nintendo often opts for completely new narratives or timelines, in this instance, fans accurately anticipated certain aspects of Nintendo’s vision.
10 The Triforce Is Nowhere To Be Seen
This Is An Intriguing Loss
Before the game’s release, there was considerable speculation regarding the absence of the iconic Triforce. Given its historical significance in the series, many players noted its omission from Breath of the Wild and predicted it wouldn’t appear in this installment either. As it turned out, this speculation was correct; in Tears of the Kingdom, the Triforce is neither mentioned nor visible, fundamentally changing how the story unfolds.
This absence marks a bold departure for Nintendo, allowing the narrative to thrive independently of traditional Zelda lore.
9 Time Travel Was A Very Important Game Mechanic
Time Travel Is Normally Not This Important
Leading up to the game’s debut, one of the dominant rumors was that time travel would play a crucial role in the gameplay. Though time manipulation is a recurring theme in the series, speculation ran rampant among fans based on tantalizing trailers. Hints suggested that Link might interact with past versions of himself or other characters.
Upon release, players discovered that time travel was even more integral than anticipated. While players don’t directly control time, the narrative intricately ties events across various periods, particularly highlighting Zelda’s sacrifice throughout centuries, thereby enriching the storyline.
8 Dungeons Weren’t Gone For Long
We Were Glad To See It Back
Significant backlash from players regarding Breath of the Wild centered on the lack of traditional dungeons, as the game relied instead on smaller puzzle Shrines. Fans were eager for Tears of the Kingdom to reintroduce the classic dungeon experience.
Fortunately, these rumors proved true: the game features six expansive dungeons, each filled with unique puzzles and formidable bosses, delivering the challenging gameplay experience fans sorely missed.
7 It Was A True Sequel To Breath of The Wild
Sequels Are Hard To Get Right
The Legend of Zelda franchise typically initiates entirely new storylines for each installment. This practice left fans wondering if Tears of the Kingdom would truly be a sequel to Breath of the Wild. Initial trailers however confirmed this was not the case, assuring players that they would receive the narrative continuation they craved.
6 There Was No DLC To Be Seen
Surprisingly, No Extra Payments Needed
Prior to launch, another prevalent rumor suggested the absence of DLC. Many argued that due to the game’s already vast scale, there wouldn’t be room for additional content later. Ultimately, these theories rang true as players found an expansive world filled with sky islands, underground territories, an array of shrines, side quests, and enhanced gameplay mechanics.
5 Link Needed To Go Into The Sky
Sky Islands Were A Welcome Addition
Pre-launch speculation also hinted that Link would ascend to sky islands. Trailers prominently displayed these celestial platforms, leading to hypotheses regarding their significance within the game.
The final game validated these claims; the sky islands are integral to gameplay, providing numerous puzzles, challenges, and essential items that enhance the overall experience significantly.
4 Ganondorf Was The Villain
He Cannot Be Beaten For Long
Speculation surrounding the primary antagonist featured much discussion about the return of Ganondorf. Many correctly predicted his role based on his historical status as a recurring villain. The opening scene directly hints at his involvement, revealing a menacing figure awakening under Hyrule Castle.
The eventual confrontation against a monstrous incarnation of Ganondorf solidified his place as the ultimate adversary, instigating chaos throughout Hyrule by triggering the Upheaval.
3 Link Really Did Lose His Arm
Was Surprisingly Crucial To The Story
Another rumor that gained traction post-trailer was that Link would undergo a significant arm injury. Speculation ranged from mere damage to complete loss, as early marketing focused heavily on his arm. The reality was far more dramatic than perceived.
Link indeed sustains a severe injury early in the game, but instead of losing his arm, he acquires a mysterious Zonai-enhanced prosthetic that introduces new gameplay abilities. Initially shrouded in mystery, players later learn that the arm once belonged to Rauru, the first King of Hyrule.
2 The Master Sword Went Missing
We’re Not Sure If It’s Gone Forever
One of the most debated rumors revolved around the fate of the Master Sword. Many anticipated that Link would lose the iconic blade early on, primarily due to its overwhelming power. This theory suggested that such a loss would encourage players to explore new gameplay mechanics.
The rumors held merit; early trailers indicated that the Master Sword appeared shattered and tainted by Gloom. The ultimate revelation of its fate intertwined closely with the narrative, confirming the validity of these early speculations.
1 The Zonai Were Ancient Rulers
There Were A Lot of Guesses
Leading up to the game’s release, considerable speculation emerged regarding the Zonai—a civilization whose remnants littered Hyrule. Many theorized they were not merely an ancient society but rather powerful rulers with significant influence on Hyrule’s history.
In the early stages of Tears of the Kingdom, Link and Zelda uncover Zonai ruins, unveiling a narrative that strongly ties them to the monarchy of Hyrule, culminating in Link’s encounter with Rauru, who emerges as a Zonai himself.