Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is the 19th release in the Legend of Zelda franchise as well as the last WiiU game produced AND a launch game for Nintendo’s latest console, The Nintendo Switch. The game is unlike the traditional Zelda games and is more similar to games released later on in the Zelda franchise such as Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time or Skyward Sword. But thankfully the game did get rid of the awful motion controls that Skyward Sword provided us with.
The game, as far as I know, starts a new start on the Zelda timeline. It starts with Link, our protagonist from every Legend of Zelda game thus far. He wakes up inside a cave and finds a tablet like piece of ancient technology known as a “Sheikah Slate.” This item will be useful to activate all ancient technology in the game that is found throughout the map. As it turns out Link has been asleep for 100 years after he was almost killed by a great evil known as Calamity Ganon. Calamity Ganon attacked Hyrule and all of its people in an attempt to destroy the planet but was stopped by the Princess herself, Zelda. Zelda has kept Ganon at bay for the past 100 years as Link rested as he had been mortally wounded in the battle with Ganon. Now You must destroy what is left of Ganon and save Zelda.
As expected you control Link, our pointy-eared sword wielding hero of time. The controls in this game are surprisingly good, they are responsive and quick. Especially considering how awful Skyward Swords were. Link now, unlike in other games, can climb which makes exploring much easier. Even with the small energy bar which drains slowly exploration is fun and makes you feel like you’re on an adventure. Especially because you can upgrade your energy bar or your health with things called “Spirit Orbs.”
Spirit Orbs can be obtained via Shrines. Shrines are located throughout the vast map you are given on your Sheikah Slate. Spirit Orbs are pretty optional after the beginning of the game but are very very helpful especially with boss fights. They can be transferred into extra health or energy by trading 4 at a time into various statues found around in local towns.
Overall I have been enjoying this game very much. Though I have people raving over the soundtrack I felt it left more to be desired. The game’s combat system is fun but can get quite annoying that EVERY weapon can break. Let’s say you found an axe you really enjoyed fighting with, tough luck better find a new one because like every other weapon it’ll break AND give you no indication of when it will until right before it does. Though those are only minor things I still loved the game and feel it is a great game for long time fans of the series or even anybody who wants to play Zelda for the first time. It is a great jumping off point.