Fans and critics agreed with this statement; it’s one of the most beloved games in the Zelda franchise and, according to Metacritic, one of Nintendo’s best games ever.
TEARS OF THE KINGDOM IS A GAME THAT SHOULD’T EXIST, YET IT DOES
Being a direct sequel, many wondered how Link would lose all of his powers gained from Breath of the Wild.
They stumble upon a mummified and downright terrifying Ganondorf, who, upon awakening, depletes Link’s heath, shatters the Master Sword, and destroys his right arm.
Don’t let you think for a second that you’re back at square one, however. During the game’s tutorial, you’re assisted by the spirit of Rauru, a Zonai who gives Link his right arm and the key abilities that will assist you on your journey.
Like Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom’s progression plays out similarly. The main-story quest requires you to venture into Hyrule and traverse through four Divine Beasts temples as you help the various races that populate Hyrule.
So far, it all sounds familiar, but where Tears of the Kingdom excels is using your new abilities to allow you to play the game at your own pace. Completing shrines no longer feels mandatory.
Yes, the game’s temples feel like traditional Zelda temples in name only, but here’s the thing: the entire game is one gigantic temple with infinite puzzles to solve and secrets to discover.