There’s something still truly exciting about turning on and playing a Nintendo Switch. It’s a feeling that I cannot fully describe. It is a console that brings out the child in me. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that the NES was my first console and I’ve owned every generation since then (bar the original Gameboy)
But what truly gets me excited, when I slide out the red and blue Joy-cons and settle back into my sofa is the game I’m about to begin. Never have I experienced a game quite as immersive as Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Never before has a game given the player such complete free-rein to do as they wish. And the main difference with other titles, especially for me, is that I actually WANT to.
Nintendo has become synonymous with child-friendly, easy going family fun, and without a doubt they are still holding tightly to that mantle. Games such as 1-2-Switch are clearly about getting kids, parents, friends and relatives involved. No matter the age or gaming skill level you can still have a good time. But Zelda proves that Nintendo is capable of far more than just creating games you only ever get out when your Nan’s coming for tea.
This game is not for the faint-hearted and, I would argue, likely a difficult game for any first-time player to get to grips with. The controls, although well-designed, do take time to get used to and there is a lot to take in with a pretty steep learning curve. The tutorial essentially throws you into the world and tells you to figure it out on your own. But this only adds to its charm.
Although there is a clear plot and purpose it will likely be hours before you even really think about plot progression. You’ll be far too caught up in climbing that mountain or seeing what’s in every inch and corner of the beautifully designed world. You’ll likely stumble upon plot progression by accident just because you were curious to know what that glowing light was in the distance. This is what truly takes this game from good to great.
Initially, I was apprehensive to hear about cooking in the game. It seemed like an unnecessary add-on that would only hinder my adventure, but I was surprised to find that I actually began to enjoy it. Foraging for my ingredients, trying out different combinations to find out what works, watching them bounce around and getting really excited when making something new almost convinced me that I could be a chef. Almost…
So is a whole new console really worth investing in for this one game? After all, there isn’t much more the Switch can offer player’s at this point in its life-cycle. My answer to you is yes. A million times yes. No game will take you on an adventure in the same way this will, and frankly I’m beyond excited to see what else Nintendo has in store for its other franchises (Mario now has a lot to live up to.)
So, Zelda is the game for you, if you want a beautiful, colourful sandbox that lets you do what you want, when you want. If you’re already a Zelda geek and haven’t yet invested, where have you been?! Put your pocket money to good use! If your gaming library extends no further than Call of Duty this may not be the game for you, but even then, I would urge the FPSers to take a leap of faith and try this game. You never know! If you’re new to gaming it may be a lot to take in, but the results will be worth it. Nintendo have truly outdone themselves here, this title is not to be missed!
Nerfd 
Leave a Reply