Eiji Aonuma Discusses Future After Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Hints at New Nintendo IP

Eiji Aonuma, the esteemed producer behind The Legend of Zelda series at Nintendo, has been instrumental in redefining one of gaming's most beloved franchises.

Most recently, Aonuma spearheaded development on The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a title that broke industry conventions and expanded the boundaries of open-world exploration on platforms such as the Nintendo Switch and Wii U.

With Breath of the Wild set for release in 2017 on both the Nintendo NX and Wii U, attention has turned to what Aonuma may pursue next in his illustrious career. In a discussion with EDGE magazine, Aonuma reflected on his future with Nintendo and the evolving expectations from within the company.

He noted that, "Nintendo has been encouraging me to develop a new intellectual property." Despite his passion for continuing work on renowned Zelda titles, Aonuma revealed he is also considering original concepts outside the storied franchise. While he could not divulge specific plans or detailed concepts at this time, Aonuma did express a particular interest in creating a game experience centered on the idea of living as a thief.

"I find the concept of playing as a thief intriguing," he shared.

He emphasized his enthusiasm for exploring gameplay dynamics and narratives that depart from traditional heroics found in the Zelda series, suggesting that innovation remains a driving force in his development philosophy. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, first unveiled during a Nintendo Direct and developed exclusively for the Nintendo NX and Wii U, marks a significant milestone for both Aonuma and Nintendo.

Since its announcement, the title has drawn significant anticipation from both fans and industry observers, setting new expectations for action-adventure gaming on Nintendo platforms.

Nintendo's continuous encouragement for original content, coupled with Aonuma's creative versatility, signals an exciting future for both the developer and the company’s expansive game library.

As Breath of the Wild prepares for its global launch, the potential for a new Nintendo IP — with the innovative spirit that has defined Aonuma's career — continues to build interest among Nintendo fans and the broader gaming community. Players can look forward to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild's release on the Nintendo Switch and Wii U in 2017, exclusively available via physical cartridges and the Nintendo eShop.

All eyes now turn to what new gameplay experiences Aonuma and Nintendo will bring to the industry in the years ahead.