Zelda's Next Chapter: Why It Must Evolve Beyond Breath of the Wild

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BOTW) became an instant classic on the Nintendo Switch. Its groundbreaking open-world exploration offered a sense of freedom and discovery that few games have matched. This defining feature, while exceptional, presents a challenge for future installments in the series.

Following up on such a successful title was always going to be difficult. While Tears of the Kingdom (TOTK) brought innovative mechanics, it struggled to capture the same magic as its predecessor. To truly succeed, the next Zelda game needs to boldly move away from BOTW's core elements, particularly its desolate atmosphere.

BOTW's Apocalyptic Hyrule Was Beautiful One of Breath of the Wild's greatest strengths was its open world. Beyond the clever design elements that guided players, the game's atmosphere truly set it apart. It presented a unique take on the post-apocalyptic setting. This wasn't the typical wasteland. Instead, BOTW offered a peaceful, contemplative landscape. Empty rolling meadows, moss-covered ruins, and the sound of wind created a feeling of melancholy. This evoked a sense of both unease and comfort. The emptiness of the world the enduring optimism of Link in the face of overwhelming adversity.

TOTK Didn't Differentiate Its Hyrule Enough Tears of the Kingdom had an opportunity to revitalize Hyrule. While using the same map as BOTW provided a sense of connection, the world ultimately felt too similar. Nintendo's additions, like the Depths and floating islands, added more area but not necessarily more enjoyment. The floating islands felt repetitive and lifeless. Hyrule itself received only superficial changes, retaining the same landmarks and cities. TOTK largely maintained the post-apocalyptic atmosphere of its predecessor, missing an opportunity to create a distinct identity. The novelty of exploring this type of Hyrule had worn off for many players, especially those familiar with BOTW.

TOTK's Sequel Must Change The Tone Of Hyrule The next Zelda game should strive for a more hopeful and vibrant Hyrule. Instead of peaceful desolation, we should see settlements springing up as people try to rebuild their lives. This shift in tone would differentiate the game as the third chapter in this saga. We need a world full of people, new towns, and homes. This evolved Hyrule should feel almost antithetical to Breath of the Wild's interpretation.

Nintendo can use this new tone to enhance exploration, focusing on atmosphere and unique landmarks rather than just new mechanics. The next Zelda game could see Link helping to reconnect the settlements that have appeared across Hyrule, giving the game a clear purpose. Ultimately, players should have a hand in shaping this new Hyrule, creating a world that feels familiar yet revitalized, leaving behind the haunting beauty of the past.