With the highly anticipated launch of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild just weeks away, excitement is at an all-time high among Nintendo fans.
As the flagship title set to debut alongside the Nintendo Switch on March 3rd, 2017, Nintendo’s expansive open-world adventure also arrives as a swan song for the Wii U.
Developed by Nintendo’s storied EPD division, Breath of the Wild promises an unprecedented level of freedom, exploration, and narrative depth within the beloved Legend of Zelda franchise. Nintendo’s official gameplay trailer, unveiled during the Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017, offers a treasure trove of new insights for devoted fans and industry watchers.
Here, we distill ten of the most impactful reveals confirmed by the footage, each offering a glimpse into the sweeping world of Hyrule and the gameplay innovations that set Breath of the Wild apart. 1.
Koroks Return in Greater Numbers The trailer confirms that Koroks, previously introduced in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, will be pervasive throughout Hyrule.
With an astounding 900 Korok Seed puzzles documented, players will not only encounter creatures reminiscent of Oakin, Rown, and Olivio but can expect these charming forest spirits to play a prominent role as they explore every corner of the game’s vast environment. 2.
The Master Sword’s Hallowed Resting Place Veterans of the series will recognize the significant presence of the Great Deku Tree, now safeguarding the legendary Master Sword of Resurrection.
The trailer depicts the ancient tree, surrounded by Koroks, watching over a time-worn Master Sword.
In an evocative scene, the Great Deku Tree remarks on Link’s lost memories, setting the stage for a narrative deeply rooted in Hyrule's past. 3.
Calamity Ganon’s Corruption Explained Breath of the Wild’s trailer offers context for Hyrule’s desolate state.
Following a catastrophe a century prior, Calamity Ganon’s influence is made visual through the manifestation of Bokoblins and the devastation wrought upon the land.
Through striking visuals, viewers see his power warping monsters and landscapes alike. 4.
Recurring Mini-Boss: Stone Talus Early gameplay demos and now the official trailer confirm that Stone Talus, a formidable boss encountered on the Great Plateau at E3 2016, will be a recurring foe.
These boulder-assembled adversaries add an extra layer of unpredictability and challenge as players traverse Hyrule. 5.
Innovative Traversal: Sand Walruses Among the most exciting additions is the method of desert traversal using sand walruses.
In an adrenaline-charged sequence, Link harnesses one of these creatures to speed across the dunes, demonstrating Nintendo’s distinctive approach to engaging and inventive movement mechanics. 6.
New Enemies and Factions Intriguing footage hints at persistent tension between factions within Hyrule.
A masked attacker brandishing a two-handed sword, marked with an inverted Sheikah symbol, points to strained relationships and potential adversaries stemming from ancient Sheikah power. 7.
Return of Iconic Races The Gerudo, Zora, and Gorons—integral races from previous iterations—are visually confirmed, with scenes suggesting their leaders play pivotal parts in Link’s journey.
Their inclusion highlights Breath of the Wild’s celebration of Hyrule’s rich history and cultures. 8.
Greater Threats Than Guardians While the Guardians are depicted as relentless opponents, the trailer elevates the sense of danger by showcasing enormous mechanical beasts commanded by Calamity Ganon.
Their destructive force across landmarks like Death Mountain underlines the gravity of Link’s mission. 9.
Homage to Skyward Sword’s Lore Nods to previous titles abound, notably a bathing scene recalling the Earth Spring of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.
Such references underscore Nintendo’s dedication to series continuity and fan service. 10.
The Destruction of Castle Town A pivotal flashback reveals Guardians laying waste to Castle Town, drawing poignant connections to both The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD and the enduring impact of Ganon’s corruption.
The devastation illustrates the transformation of familiar locations, now shadowed by tragedy. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild represents a milestone achievement for both Nintendo Switch and Wii U, offering a uniquely expansive adventure with deep ties to the franchise's legacy.
As March 3rd approaches, fans worldwide can look forward to unraveling these secrets firsthand, experiencing Link’s epic story through groundbreaking gameplay, intricate puzzles, and a revitalized digital Hyrule accessible via both physical release and digital download through the Nintendo eShop.
As the flagship title set to debut alongside the Nintendo Switch on March 3rd, 2017, Nintendo’s expansive open-world adventure also arrives as a swan song for the Wii U.
Developed by Nintendo’s storied EPD division, Breath of the Wild promises an unprecedented level of freedom, exploration, and narrative depth within the beloved Legend of Zelda franchise. Nintendo’s official gameplay trailer, unveiled during the Nintendo Switch Presentation 2017, offers a treasure trove of new insights for devoted fans and industry watchers.
Here, we distill ten of the most impactful reveals confirmed by the footage, each offering a glimpse into the sweeping world of Hyrule and the gameplay innovations that set Breath of the Wild apart. 1.
Koroks Return in Greater Numbers The trailer confirms that Koroks, previously introduced in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD, will be pervasive throughout Hyrule.
With an astounding 900 Korok Seed puzzles documented, players will not only encounter creatures reminiscent of Oakin, Rown, and Olivio but can expect these charming forest spirits to play a prominent role as they explore every corner of the game’s vast environment. 2.
The Master Sword’s Hallowed Resting Place Veterans of the series will recognize the significant presence of the Great Deku Tree, now safeguarding the legendary Master Sword of Resurrection.
The trailer depicts the ancient tree, surrounded by Koroks, watching over a time-worn Master Sword.
In an evocative scene, the Great Deku Tree remarks on Link’s lost memories, setting the stage for a narrative deeply rooted in Hyrule's past. 3.
Calamity Ganon’s Corruption Explained Breath of the Wild’s trailer offers context for Hyrule’s desolate state.
Following a catastrophe a century prior, Calamity Ganon’s influence is made visual through the manifestation of Bokoblins and the devastation wrought upon the land.
Through striking visuals, viewers see his power warping monsters and landscapes alike. 4.
Recurring Mini-Boss: Stone Talus Early gameplay demos and now the official trailer confirm that Stone Talus, a formidable boss encountered on the Great Plateau at E3 2016, will be a recurring foe.
These boulder-assembled adversaries add an extra layer of unpredictability and challenge as players traverse Hyrule. 5.
Innovative Traversal: Sand Walruses Among the most exciting additions is the method of desert traversal using sand walruses.
In an adrenaline-charged sequence, Link harnesses one of these creatures to speed across the dunes, demonstrating Nintendo’s distinctive approach to engaging and inventive movement mechanics. 6.
New Enemies and Factions Intriguing footage hints at persistent tension between factions within Hyrule.
A masked attacker brandishing a two-handed sword, marked with an inverted Sheikah symbol, points to strained relationships and potential adversaries stemming from ancient Sheikah power. 7.
Return of Iconic Races The Gerudo, Zora, and Gorons—integral races from previous iterations—are visually confirmed, with scenes suggesting their leaders play pivotal parts in Link’s journey.
Their inclusion highlights Breath of the Wild’s celebration of Hyrule’s rich history and cultures. 8.
Greater Threats Than Guardians While the Guardians are depicted as relentless opponents, the trailer elevates the sense of danger by showcasing enormous mechanical beasts commanded by Calamity Ganon.
Their destructive force across landmarks like Death Mountain underlines the gravity of Link’s mission. 9.
Homage to Skyward Sword’s Lore Nods to previous titles abound, notably a bathing scene recalling the Earth Spring of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword.
Such references underscore Nintendo’s dedication to series continuity and fan service. 10.
The Destruction of Castle Town A pivotal flashback reveals Guardians laying waste to Castle Town, drawing poignant connections to both The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD and the enduring impact of Ganon’s corruption.
The devastation illustrates the transformation of familiar locations, now shadowed by tragedy. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild represents a milestone achievement for both Nintendo Switch and Wii U, offering a uniquely expansive adventure with deep ties to the franchise's legacy.
As March 3rd approaches, fans worldwide can look forward to unraveling these secrets firsthand, experiencing Link’s epic story through groundbreaking gameplay, intricate puzzles, and a revitalized digital Hyrule accessible via both physical release and digital download through the Nintendo eShop.
