The Legend of Zelda series, a cornerstone of Nintendo’s portfolio, consistently draws fans toward their consoles. The anticipation for a new installment is palpable, especially with the imminent release of the Nintendo Switch 2. Surprisingly, however, it will debut not with a fresh Zelda adventure but with enhanced versions of existing titles, Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. Furthermore, a new game from the Hyrule Warriors franchise is slated for release in 2025.
Upon its launch, the original Nintendo Switch featured Breath of the Wild, which introduced players to an expansive, immersive world that contributed significantly to the console’s initial success. Following that, Tears of the Kingdom broadened the narrative and gameplay possibilities. Yet, with gamers seeking innovation, merely upgrading graphics and performance may not meet their expectations. The absence of a brand-new Zelda title could lead to rising disappointment among fans, as the community eagerly anticipates novel experiences on the Switch 2.
Updated Versions of BOTW & TOTK for Switch 2
Enhanced Performance and Graphics
The Switch 2 promises to deliver upgraded versions of both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, featuring quicker load times, enhanced gameplay smoothness, and improved visuals. For fans already captivated by these games, the opportunity to revisit Hyrule with fresh enhancements sounds appealing. However, it may not captivate everyone’s interest due to the fact that most players have already completed these adventures, raising questions about the worthiness of this investment.
Although a modest upgrade fee of $10 is available for existing players, some might question whether this price reflects sufficient value. Simply repackaging older games may not suffice to entice all fans, particularly within the lively realm of the Zelda franchise.
The Need for A New Zelda Title at Launch
Anticipation for a Fresh Zelda Experience
The iconic status of the Zelda series leads many to speculate that new titles are essential at the debut of the Switch 2. The overwhelming success of Breath of the Wild, which has sold over 34 million copies as of December 2024, solidified its reputation as one of the greatest games of all time. Unfortunately, with the new console lacking a new installment, the widespread enthusiasm that once accompanied console launches risks dilution.
The presence of highly anticipated titles, like Mario Kart World, does not equate to the excitement generated by the launch of a new Zelda game. Delaying such a significant release could discourage potential buyers, diminishing initial sales momentum. With each passing day, the opportunity to harness the thrill of a new Zelda adventure potentially slips away, as players may choose to postpone their purchases or turn to alternatives.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Falls Short
Limitations of the Hyrule Warriors Franchise
Upcoming is another Zelda-themed title: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. However, it diverges from the expectations set by a traditional Zelda game. Instead, it embraces gameplay similar to that of action-heavy titles like the Dynasty Warriors series, emphasizing combat over the intricate puzzles and expansive narratives that Zelda fans hold dear.
Notably, Age of Imprisonment will not be available at the launch of the Switch 2, as its release is projected for 2025. This delay poses a potential risk for the console, particularly given that initial months post-launch are critical for establishing a user base and fueling excitement. As time progresses, the lack of a substantive Zelda title will increasingly weigh on Nintendo’s strategy.
While fans may enjoy this spinoff, it does not fulfill the long-held desires for a true mainline The Legend of Zelda experience. If Nintendo remains silent regarding the future of the series on this new platform, frustration levels among dedicated fans may escalate. Ultimately, a new Zelda title has been a standout factor in attracting gamers to new consoles, and the absence of such offerings could have lasting implications for the Switch 2’s performance in the marketplace.