The Nintendo Switch has been a haven for gamers, offering a diverse range of titles that cater to different tastes and preferences. Among the many iconic franchises that have made their way to the console, The Legend of Zelda series stands out as one of the most beloved and revered. With the Switch’s portability and versatility, Zelda fans have been eagerly waiting to see which games from the series would make their way to the console. In this article, we’ll delve into the current state of Zelda games on the Switch and explore what’s on the horizon.
The Current State Of Zelda Games On The Switch
As of now, there are three Zelda games available on the Nintendo Switch:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – A launch title for the Switch, Breath of the Wild is an open-world masterpiece that has set a new standard for the series.
- Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition – A spin-off title that combines the hack-and-slash gameplay of Dynasty Warriors with the rich lore of the Zelda series.
- Link’s Awakening – A faithful remake of the classic Game Boy title, offering a charming top-down adventure that’s perfect for on-the-go play.
These titles have been well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing the versatility of the Zelda series and the Switch’s capabilities.
Rumors And Speculation: What’s Next For Zelda On The Switch?
While Nintendo has been tight-lipped about upcoming Zelda games, rumors and speculation have been circulating about potential titles that could be in development. Here are a few possibilities:
The Legend Of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
One of the most requested remasters is Skyward Sword HD, an upgraded version of the Wii classic. With the Switch’s improved graphics capabilities, a remastered Skyward Sword could be a stunning visual treat. The game’s motion controls, which were innovative for their time, could also be refined to take advantage of the Joy-Con’s advanced sensors.
The Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
Another title that’s been rumored for a remaster is Twilight Princess HD. The GameCube and Wii classic is still revered for its darker tone and expansive open world. A Switch version could bring updated graphics, improved framerate, and even new content to entice both old and new fans.
A New 2D Zelda Game
With the success of Link’s Awakening, there’s a strong possibility that Nintendo could be working on a new 2D Zelda game. This could be a sequel to Link’s Awakening or a completely new title that builds upon the classic formula. A new 2D Zelda game could offer a fresh perspective on the series, leveraging the Switch’s portability and touchscreen capabilities.
Confirmed Titles: What We Know So Far
While rumors are exciting, it’s always best to focus on confirmed titles. There are two Zelda games that have been officially announced for the Switch:
The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild Sequel
At E3 2019, Nintendo surprised fans with a teaser trailer for a sequel to Breath of the Wild. The trailer showed Link and Zelda exploring a dark, mysterious world, hinting at a deeper narrative and possibly even a new gameplay mechanic. While details are scarce, the sequel is expected to build upon the foundation laid by Breath of the Wild.
No Release Date Yet
Unfortunately, there’s no release date set for the sequel, but given Nintendo’s track record, it’s likely to be a AAA title that will take time to develop. Fans can expect a polished experience that will meet the high standards set by its predecessor.
Hyrule Warriors: Age Of Calamity
In September 2020, Nintendo announced Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a new spin-off title that serves as a prequel to Breath of the Wild. Developed by Koei Tecmo Games, Age of Calamity promises to deliver an epic, action-packed experience that explores the events leading up to the Great Calamity.
A November 2020 Release
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is slated for a November 20, 2020, release, making it the next Zelda game to hit the Switch. With its focus on co-op gameplay and a rich narrative, Age of Calamity is shaping up to be a great addition to the Zelda series.
Conclusion
The Legend of Zelda series has always been synonymous with quality, innovation, and excitement. With the Switch’s versatility and portability, the potential for new and innovative Zelda experiences is vast. While we wait for official announcements, the rumors and speculation surrounding upcoming Zelda titles are sure to keep fans engaged and eager for more.
Whether you’re a lifelong Zelda fan or new to the series, the Switch has something for everyone. From the epic open world of Breath of the Wild to the charming top-down adventure of Link’s Awakening, the Switch is the perfect platform for experiencing the magic of Hyrule.
Stay tuned for more updates on upcoming Zelda games, and get ready to embark on new adventures in the world of Hyrule!
Are All Zelda Games Coming To The Switch?
The short answer is no, not all Zelda games are coming to the Switch. While Nintendo has announced several Zelda titles for the console, not every game in the series will be available on the Switch. However, many beloved classics and new titles are making their way to the platform.
It’s worth noting that Nintendo has been selective about which games to port to the Switch, focusing on titles that will resonate with modern gamers. They’ve also been working on new titles that take advantage of the Switch’s capabilities. This means that while some older games might not make the cut, fans can look forward to new and exciting Zelda experiences on the Switch.
Will The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time Be Remastered For The Switch?
Unfortunately, there has been no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a remastered version of Ocarina of Time for the Switch. While fans have been clamoring for an updated version of this classic, it’s unclear if Nintendo plans to revisit this game in the near future.
That being said, the Switch has already seen the release of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, a remake of the classic Game Boy title. This suggests that Nintendo is open to revisiting and reimagining older titles for the Switch, so it’s possible that Ocarina of Time could receive a similar treatment in the future.
Can I Play Zelda Games On The Switch Lite?
Yes, you can play Zelda games on the Switch Lite! The Switch Lite is a dedicated handheld console, and all Zelda games available on the Switch can be played on the Lite. This means you can enjoy titles like Breath of the Wild, Link’s Awakening, and more on the go.
Keep in mind that the Switch Lite does not have detachable Joy-Con controllers, so some games that rely on HD rumble or motion controls might not work as intended. However, most Zelda games are designed to be played with traditional controls, so you shouldn’t encounter any issues.
Will There Be A New 2D Zelda Game For The Switch?
There has been no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a new 2D Zelda game for the Switch. However, the success of Link’s Awakening and the continued popularity of 2D Zelda titles suggest that it’s possible we might see a new game in the future.
If a new 2D Zelda game were to be announced, it would likely be a welcome addition to the Switch lineup. The console has already shown itself to be a great platform for 2D games, and a new Zelda title could bring a fresh perspective to the series.
Can I Play Zelda Games Online With Friends?
Currently, there are no Zelda games on the Switch that offer online multiplayer capabilities. The series has traditionally been focused on single-player experiences, and online multiplayer has not been a priority.
That being said, Nintendo has been exploring online features in their games, including the Switch. It’s possible that future Zelda titles might incorporate online elements, such as cooperative play or competitive modes. However, at this time, Zelda games on the Switch are primarily single-player experiences.
Will There Be A Zelda Game Exclusive To The Switch Pro?
There has been no official announcement from Nintendo regarding a Zelda game exclusive to the Switch Pro. While the Switch Pro has been rumored to be in development, there’s little concrete information available about its capabilities or launch titles.
If a Switch Pro were to be released, it’s possible that Nintendo might develop exclusive titles that take advantage of its upgraded hardware. However, at this time, it’s unclear if a Zelda game would be part of that lineup.
Are There Any Zelda Spin-offs Coming To The Switch?
Yes, there are several Zelda spin-offs and spin-off style games coming to the Switch! One such example is Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a musou-style action game set in the Breath of the Wild universe. This game offers a unique take on the Zelda series, blending action and strategy elements.
Additionally, there have been rumors of other spin-off titles in development, although nothing has been officially announced. The Switch has already seen the release of spin-offs like Cadence of Hyrule, a rhythm-based action game that combines Zelda with Crypt of the NecroDancer. It’s likely that we’ll see more innovative takes on the Zelda series in the future.