With the recent details coming out about the Nintendo Switch, it seems that more details have emerged on Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the new Zelda title coming out in Nintendo’s long-running franchise. The game now has a solid release date of March 3rd for both Nintendo Switch and Wii U. Additionally, it has been revealed that the install size for the game will be 13gb and 13.4gb for the Wii U and Switch respectively.
This isn’t the first time that a new Zelda title has been a cross-generation release. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess was also simultaneously released on the Gamecube and Wii. However, the Wii version of that game had its map completely flipped in order to accommodate the motion controls. The differences in the Switch and Wii U versions for Breath of the Wild still remain to be seen, though it should run more stable on the Nintendo Switch, thanks to the device running at 720p and 60fps while in its portable mode.
In addition to the announcement of a release date, it was also shown off with a brand-new trailer that leaves viewers with even more questions about the game. The trailer (linked below) shows Link waking up from a 100-year slumber and into a new world. We also see the return of the Zora and Goron, two races that exist within the Zelda mythos. It seems that Nintendo has taken heavy inspiration from acclaimed Studio Ghibli films Nausicaa: Valley of the Wind and Princess Mononoke, as the attire that we see the characters in is completely different to their traditional iconic garbs. Watch the new Zelda: Breath of the Wild trailer below.
In a recent interview with Eurogamer, Eiji Aonuma- Producer of the series revealed that despite comments made at E3 2013 during the title’s initial announcement, that there would be no female protagonist. “…We did discuss in the team about whether or not we should have a female protagonist. I spoke to Mr Miyamoto about it and the whole team talked about it, but in the end, it just didn’t happen.”
This new foray into the world of Hyrule seems to be one that has been a massive undertaking for Nintendo, with the game suffering from numerous delays along the way that are reportedly due to the game being released across two platforms. While both games will be functionally identical, it’s become clear that the Nintendo Switch version will be crucial for the console’s launch. With the Switch itself having more of a focus on ‘hardcore’ titles, Nintendo seems to be determined that The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild will be its killer app at launch.
There’s still a few more weeks to go until we can get our hands on the new Zelda title. With fan expectations higher than ever, you can be sure that Nintendo won’t let us down.
