Enjoy the lush fantasy landscapes of some of our favorite Legend of Zelda titles on the Nintendo Switch.
“The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening”
- ESRB Rating: Everyone for mild fantasy violence
- Single player, top-down, action-adventure
Some of you might remember this unique Zelda classic from 1993. “Link’s Awakening” is a top-down action-adventure game full of dungeons, puzzles, and boss fights. This updated version sports a lovely toy aesthetic that helps add to the nostalgic feeling for players who are revisiting this Gameboy classic. An array of quality-of-life improvements to the core gameplay, help in making this title feel slick and modern. It would be difficult not to recommend this title for both new and returning players. It is also a great title for children as it is uncomplicated to pick up and play.
“The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”
- ESRB Rating: Everyone for fantasy violence, mild suggestive themes, and use of alcohol.
- Single player, open world, action-adventure
“The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is proving to be extremely influential for the future of open world games. It has won more than a couple awards. You play as Link as he explores the kingdom of Hyrule. Your objective is to defeat the Calamity Ganon, but you start off the game weak. You can get stronger by exploring the vast open world helping those you come across, discovering puzzle dungeons, and defeating monsters. The world is lush and immersive. There are so many areas to explore, and the game rewards you for exploring everywhere and trying anything. There is no right or wrong way to play “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” so it is easy to recommend to any type of gamer.
“Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity”
- ESRB Rating: Teen for fantasy violence
- Single or multiplayer, hack & slash, fast-paced
The story of “Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity” takes place before the events of “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.” This prequel has less in common with other “Legend of Zelda” titles, and more in common with a game from the “Dynasty Warriors” series. You should expect to see fast-paced battle with waves of enemies being thrown at you as you hack and slash away at their vast numbers.
“Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring the Legend of Zelda”
- ESRB Rating: Everyone for mild fantasy violence
- Single or multiplayer, rhythm game, dungeon-crawler, fast-paced
“Cadence of Hyrule is an action-adventure rhythm game where every step you take, and every slash of your sword must be done to the rhythm of the music. This is more than just a “Legend of Zelda” reskinning of “Crypt of the NecroDancer.” This title has some of the rogue-like elements from its predecessor but plays more like a “Legend of Zelda” title with the controls of “Crypt of the NecroDancer.” Though more accessible than “Crypt of the NecoDancer,” don’t let that trick you into thinking that it is easy. Players can toggle various difficulty settings, like permadeath mode, to allow them a more punishing experience. The music in this game will have you dancing along, so come and give it a try.
– Contributed by Mêlinh