Overview
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a game originally designed for the Wii U and the Nintendo Switch. This was the last major game released for the Wii U. It was a launch title for the Nintendo Switch. The game was released worldwide on March 3, 2017 for both systems. The game was developed and published by Nintendo. An enhanced version for the Nintendo Swatch 2 will be released on June 5, 2025.
Nintendo released a Special Edition and a Master Edition for the Nintendo Switch version. The special edition included a map of Hyrule, a musical soundtrack, a carrying case for the Switch, and a collectible coin. The Master Edition featured everything in the Special Edition and featured a Master Sword collectible figure.
The game features an open world. It featured voice acting which hasn't happened since the CD-i games. Breath of the Wild is a departure of games from the past.
Link has the ability to jump and climb up almost any surface. His clothing options are also changeable and provides boosts. He also hunts and cooks to restore health.
The game is compatible with amiibo. Nintendo released five new amiibo for the game. The game is also compatible with Wolf Link and the four amiibo from the Legend of Zelda 30th Anniversary series. While using the Wolf Link amiibo, the wolf will appear when using that amiibo. It will assist Link in searching for food. Scanning other amiibo will drop food, weapons, and other items for Link to use. Four additional amiibo were released in November 2017 and were based on the four "Champions".
Nintendo released two DLC packs. The first one will be released on June 30, 2017 and the second was released on December 6, 2017 during the 2017 The Game Awards show. The second update will focus on the four Champions from the game. The DLC and the game will retail for $90 while the game itsellf will retail for $70.]
The Nintendo Switch 2 version will feature enhanced graphics and performance. It will support higher resolution and frame rates. Additionally, HDR support has been added, enhancing color and contrast. The game will also load faster.
The "Zelda Notes" feature is a new addition. This feature can be accessed though the Nintendo Switch on iOS and Android devices. The feature provides players with tips and guidance, such as assistance in locating Korok seeds.
Story
Set in the kingdom of Hyrule, the narrative follows Link, who awakens from a 100-year slumber with no memories of his past. Guided by a mysterious voice, he learns that the land is under the threat of Calamity Ganon, a malevolent force that previously brought Hyrule to ruin. To prevent Ganon from regaining full strength and destroying the world, Link embarks on a quest to defeat him. Throughout his journey, Link explores various regions, uncovers his lost memories, and seeks to free the Divine Beasts—four colossal machines once piloted by Hyrule's Champions—to aid in the battle against Ganon.
Reception & Sales
The game received universal acclaim from critics, with a Metacritic score of 97/100 based on 109 reviews . IGN awarded it a perfect 10/10, praising its open-world design and the freedom it offers players . The game was lauded for its innovative gameplay mechanics, expansive world, and the sense of adventure it instills. "Breath of the Wild" won numerous Game of the Year awards, including at The Game Awards 2017 and the 21st Annual D.I.C.E. Awards in 2018.
As of September 2024, "Breath of the Wild" has sold over 32.29 million units worldwide, making it the fourth best-selling game on the Nintendo Switch . The game significantly outperformed its predecessor, "Ocarina of Time," and became the best-selling title in the "Legend of Zelda" series.