The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a masterpiece that redefined open-world gaming when it launched in 2017. As an action-adventure title developed by Nintendo, it places you in the boots of Link, a hero tasked with saving Hyrule from the malevolent Calamity Ganon. After spending countless hours exploring its vast landscapes, I can confidently say this game is a must-play for anyone who owns a Nintendo Switch. Below, I share my personal take on why The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild remains a timeless gem, blending my experiences with insights from its vibrant community.
Initial release date: March 3, 2017
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Wii UGenres: Open world, Puzzle Video Game, Action-adventure game · See moreDeveloper: Nintendo Entertainment Planning & DevelopmentAwards: The Game Award for Game of the Year · See moreNominations: BAFTA Games Award for Best Game · See more
Composers: Hajime Wakai, Manaka Kataoka, Yasuaki Iwata
A World of Unmatched Freedom
The hallmark of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is its unparalleled sense of freedom. From the moment you emerge from the Shrine of Resurrection, the game invites you to explore at your own pace. Whether you choose to rush towards Ganon or spend hours uncovering hidden secrets, the choice is yours. I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve scaled towering mountains or glided across serene valleys, each journey revealing new surprises. The game’s mechanics—climbing, gliding, swimming, and even riding a motorcycle with the expansion pass—make exploration feel limitless. Even after years of playing, I still discover new paths, shrines, or quirky Korok puzzles, proving the world’s depth is staggering.
Stunning Visuals and Immersive Soundtrack
Visually, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is breathtaking. Its art style, with vibrant colours and painterly landscapes, transforms Hyrule into a living canvas. From the glowing peaks of Death Mountain to the tranquil shores of Lake Hylia, every region feels distinct and alive. The dynamic weather system and day-night cycle enhance immersion, making every moment visually spectacular. I vividly recall pausing atop a cliff to watch a sunset, completely captivated by the scenery.
The soundtrack is equally phenomenal, seamlessly shifting from serene piano melodies in the overworld to intense, heart-pounding tracks during battles. The music complements the emotional beats of the story, from moments of quiet reflection to epic confrontations. It’s no wonder fans on platforms like YouTube praise the score for its ability to evoke nostalgia and excitement.
A Story That Resonates
The narrative of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild strikes a balance between epic and intimate. As Link, you uncover the history of a fallen Hyrule through memories and interactions with its inhabitants. The Champions—Daruk, Mipha, Revali, and Urbosa—are standout characters, each with compelling backstories that tugged at my heartstrings. The story’s pacing allows you to engage with it as deeply as you choose, whether through main quests or side stories. I found myself emotionally invested, laughing at quirky NPCs and tearing up during poignant cutscenes. The game’s ability to weave humour, tragedy, and heroism into its narrative is nothing short of remarkable.
Gameplay That Keeps You Hooked
The gameplay is where The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild truly shines. Its open-ended design encourages creative problem-solving, whether tackling shrine puzzles or battling fearsome Lynels. The weapon durability system, while divisive, forces you to adapt and strategise, making every encounter feel fresh. I particularly love the freedom to approach challenges in unique ways—whether parrying a Guardian’s laser or using environmental tactics to outsmart enemies. The game’s 120 shrines and 77 side quests offer endless variety, and I’ve spent over 300 hours exploring without ever feeling bored.
Playing on the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode was a revelation. Despite the smaller screen, the game’s resolution and performance were flawless, with no noticeable glitches. The controls, though initially tricky, became second nature, allowing me to focus on the adventure. The inclusion of motion-based puzzles, like tilting the console for maze challenges, added a fun (if occasionally frustrating) twist.
A Welcoming Community
Beyond the game itself, the Zelda community is a joy to be part of. From YouTubers creating detailed guides to artists sharing stunning fan art, the passion for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is infectious. Unlike some gaming communities, I’ve found Zelda fans to be overwhelmingly positive and supportive, always eager to share tips or celebrate each other’s discoveries. Resources like IGN, Polygon, and Zelda Dungeon were lifesavers when I needed help with a tricky shrine or quest.
Minor Gripes and Final Thoughts
If I had to nitpick, I’d echo a small grievance from the community: the lack of multiplayer. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a solitary experience, and while this suits its introspective tone, I can’t help but imagine how fun it would be to explore Hyrule with friends. Additionally, the final battle with Ganon felt slightly underwhelming compared to the game’s buildup, though it didn’t detract from the overall experience.
In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a triumph of game design, offering endless exploration, a captivating story, and a world that feels alive. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer, this game is accessible and endlessly rewarding. It’s no exaggeration to say it’s one of the best games I’ve ever played, and I eagerly await its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. If you haven’t yet ventured into Hyrule, do yourself a favour and dive in—you won’t regret it.
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