The Legend of Zelda is an iconic Nintendo series that first debuted in 1986. It was unlike any other game of its time, as it introduced non-linearity and a large world that players could explore at their own pace.
There are some things that you should know before you jump into Hyrule. Here are some tips to help you get off to a good start:
1. Keep an eye out for items
In an era when games were dominated by linear paths, The Legend of Zelda pioneered non-linearity. Nintendo designer Shigeru Miyamoto wanted to create a game that encouraged players to explore and progress, rather than completing the main quest as quickly as possible.
One of the most popular games on the Nintendo Switch is The Legend of Zelda Breath of the Wild, and it features a range of improvements and additional experiences. For example, entering the name ZELDA into the title screen unlocks a more challenging Master Mode that alters dungeon layouts and increases monster difficulty.
Another classic Zelda feature gets a new twist in Skyward Sword, which uses motion controls. Traditionally, if you see an eye icon outside a door in the game, simply shoot it to open the door.
2. Keep an eye out for enemies
A lot of The Legend of Zelda enemies can be difficult to defeat if you’re not careful. The most frustrating enemies tend to be those that aren’t actually tough but are agile enough that you can only land a blow with perfectly-timed attacks. Examples of this include Thunderblight Ganon from Breath of the Wild, Stallord from Twilight Princess, and Bongo Bongo from Ocarina of Time.
If you’re not careful, these enemies can quickly gang up on Link and take him out of the game. To help prevent this, try to keep an eye on enemies and watch for their attack patterns. This way, you’ll know when they’re about to attack so that you can parry or dodge their attacks in time. This is particularly important if you’re playing without a shield.
3. Keep an eye out for treasure
Nintendo’s decision to make The Legend of Zelda non-linear – and allow players to explore the overworld at their own pace – was an important one that set it apart from its contemporaries. This freedom enables players to find treasure and items that help them on their journey.
This can include items that increase Link’s damage output, his climbing speed or how much shock-based attacks hurt enemies. This treasure can be found in the overworld, in shrines and other locations, including caves and wells.
Keep an eye out for buried treasure by checking the ground near any points of interest, interacting with animals and exploring villages, such as the one at Outpost Ruins. You can also try knocking down Deku hives, which are often dropped by Chu-chus and other Deku-related enemy types, in order to open up treasure chests.
4. Keep an eye out for items that can be crafted
The Legend of Zelda is a classic game that established the major characters and locations of Hyrule. It has spawned a solitary sequel, multiple prequels and spinoffs and is one of Nintendo’s most popular titles.
The new cooking system in Breath of the Wild offers a new way to expand Link’s arsenal of tools and weapons. Players can use food items found growing on plants (apples, for example), killed animals or harvested from crops to create meals that have significant effects on Link such as granting increased resistance against cold.
Weapons in Breath of the Wild aren’t very durable, so it’s a good idea to carry at least one low-powered club or weak sword. That way, you can quickly dispatch the lower-level enemies that populate the world if they surprise you.
5. Keep an eye out for items that can be crafted
Considering how many games are now including crafting systems, it’s not too surprising that Nintendo would incorporate the feature into the newest Zelda game. Players can craft a variety of items that will help them in their journey through the massive open-world map.
One of the most useful items to craft early on is the Bokoblin Arm, a deadly weapon that can be fused with inventory weapons for instant attack power. These macabre monsters can be found throughout Hyrule and battling them for their skeletal limbs will pay off with priceless dividends in combat.
Keep your important documents and Zelda drawings in order with this wood binder that will look fantastic in any room. This would make a great gift for any fan of the series.