Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Glitch Lets Players Explore as Link

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, developed and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch, has captivated players worldwide since its release.

As the first mainline entry where Princess Zelda takes center stage, the game has quickly established itself as a highlight of the Nintendo Switch's extensive library.

Released to widespread critical acclaim, Echoes of Wisdom delivers the signature puzzle-solving and exploration fans expect from the franchise, all while introducing new mechanics and a fresh narrative perspective through Zelda herself. Despite its innovations, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom has not been immune to the attention of the speedrunning community, which has already uncovered numerous exploits within the game.

Most notably, a recent glitch—documented in detail by YouTube creator alyo—has enabled players to explore Hyrule not as Zelda but as the series' iconic hero, Link.

This discovery builds on the 'Sign Echo' loophole, previously celebrated by speedrunners for enabling record-breaking completion times. The process, as broken down from alyo’s instructional video, involves several meticulous steps: 1.

Start a new game and create a save file during the introductory sequence in Suthorn Ruins, while controlling Link. 2.

Progress through the first dungeon as Zelda, following the standard story. 3.

Locate the Sign Echo and make your way east of Kakariko Village to the Eternal Forest. 4.

On the treetops, find the outermost edge where fog nearly transports you out—typically between the second and third tree rows. 5.

Generate a Sign Echo, then simultaneously read it and attempt to access the game menu.

Success is indicated by being able to move behind the paused menu screen. 6.

Using the minimap, maneuver Zelda off the trees and into combat against a nearby enemy. 7.

Allow the enemy to defeat Zelda, then, upon reaching the 'Game Over' prompt, reload the initial Link save. 8.

While the screen is darkened, press and hold the A button and the up direction on the control pad. If executed correctly, this glitch enables players to control Link throughout Hyrule, complete with his customary sword, bow, and bombs.

However, the gameplay experience is far from seamless.

The game frequently attempts to reorient players back to the Eternal Forest whenever the character Tri initiates dialogue.

Additionally, Link lacks the unique Trirod and Echo-summoning powers that are fundamental to solving most of the adventure's environmental challenges.

As a result, the exploit is primarily a novelty: it allows players a fleeting return to Link's shoes in a game built around Zelda's heroics, but it lacks practical application for extended play or completion. This glitch showcases both the creativity of the speedrunning community and the intricacies underlying Nintendo's game design.

While it offers an entertaining diversion and a fresh look at Echoes of Wisdom’s engine, such exploits are typically addressed in future software updates.

For now, players on the Nintendo Switch can enjoy this easter egg—while it lasts—by following the steps shared by alyo and the broader online community. The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom is available now exclusively on Nintendo Switch via physical release and the Nintendo eShop.

As Nintendo continues to monitor community feedback and patch out unintended behaviors, fans can expect ongoing support and updates for Zelda’s celebrated new adventure.

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