How Much Will the New Zelda Game Cost?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom carries a retail price of $69.99. This marks a departure from Nintendo’s standard $59.99 price point for its flagship Nintendo Switch titles and has sparked considerable discussion within the gaming community. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this price tag and explore everything related to the cost of this highly anticipated game.
Why the $70 Price Tag? Unpacking Nintendo’s Decision
The decision to price Tears of the Kingdom at $70 wasn’t taken lightly by Nintendo. The company defended the price hike by emphasizing the scope and depth of the gaming experience it offers. Nintendo of America president Doug Bowser explicitly stated that the price “reflects the type of experience fans can expect” from this particular game.
Scale and Content Justification
Nintendo’s rationale rests on the belief that Tears of the Kingdom offers a vast and incredibly immersive experience. The game’s development demanded significant resources and time due to its expansive world, intricate gameplay mechanics, and extensive narrative. The company seems confident that the increased price is justified by the sheer amount of content packed into the game.
Market Trends and Production Costs
While Nintendo doesn’t explicitly state this, rising development costs across the gaming industry play a role. Developing AAA titles has become significantly more expensive due to higher player expectations, advanced technology, and larger development teams. A $70 price point is becoming more common for AAA games, a trend that Nintendo appears to be cautiously embracing.
A “Sale” Strategy? A Cynical Perspective
Some gamers have voiced a more cynical theory that the $70 price allows Nintendo to offer “sales” on the game, bringing it down to the familiar $60 price range, creating an illusion of savings. While this remains speculative, it highlights the complex relationship between pricing, perception, and consumer behavior in the video game market.
Where to Buy and Potential Discounts
Despite the higher price tag, numerous retailers offer Tears of the Kingdom, and deals can often be found.
- Major Retailers: Expect to find the game at retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop, Target, and Walmart.
- Digital Storefront: The Nintendo eShop offers a convenient way to purchase and download the game directly to your Nintendo Switch.
- Costco: As the article references, Costco sometimes offers discounted prices on popular games, so it’s worth checking their inventory.
Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers
One of the best ways to save money is through the Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers program. For $99.98, you can purchase two vouchers that can be redeemed for eligible digital games, including Tears of the Kingdom. This effectively reduces the cost of each game to $49.99 if you strategically use the second voucher on another game.
Beyond the Price Tag: Is Tears of the Kingdom Worth It?
The ultimate question isn’t just about the price, but whether the game delivers a worthwhile experience for the money. Based on numerous reviews and player feedback, Tears of the Kingdom has been overwhelmingly praised for its:
- Innovative Gameplay: The game expands upon the mechanics of Breath of the Wild with new abilities and creative tools.
- Expansive World: The game features a vast and dynamic world with new areas to explore and secrets to discover.
- Compelling Narrative: Many find the story more engaging and emotionally resonant than its predecessor.
- Improved Graphics: With graphical improvements, the game takes advantage of the console´s technology.
- Creativity and Freedom: This game offers players almost limitless possibilities for exploration and gameplay.
Many consider Tears of the Kingdom to be a must-have title for Nintendo Switch owners, justifying the $70 price tag with its exceptional quality and replay value. The game has resonated with players and critics alike, solidifying its position as a defining title for the Switch. To further your understanding of gaming and its impact, consider exploring resources from the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will Tears of the Kingdom be $70 everywhere?
Yes, the standard retail price for the physical and digital versions of Tears of the Kingdom is $69.99. Prices may vary slightly depending on sales or promotions offered by different retailers.
2. Why is Tears of the Kingdom more expensive than Breath of the Wild?
Nintendo justified the higher price due to the game’s scope, depth, and the enhanced experience it provides. Development costs for AAA games have also increased.
3. Is there a cheaper way to buy Tears of the Kingdom?
Consider using Nintendo Switch Game Vouchers. Buying two vouchers for $99.98 allows you to purchase Tears of the Kingdom and another eligible game for approximately $50 each.
4. Will Tears of the Kingdom ever go on sale?
It is likely that Tears of the Kingdom will be discounted at some point, but Nintendo games typically hold their value well. Keep an eye on retailer promotions and holiday sales.
5. Is the Limited Edition of Tears of the Kingdom more expensive?
Yes, the Limited Edition of Tears of the Kingdom, which includes additional collectibles, is priced higher than the standard edition. Its price and availability may vary.
6. Why did Nintendo choose to raise the price for this specific game?
Nintendo stated that the price reflects the incredibly full and deeply immersive experience that Tears of the Kingdom offers to fans.
7. Is Tears of the Kingdom worth the money?
Most reviews and player feedback suggest that Tears of the Kingdom is worth the investment, praising its innovative gameplay, expansive world, and compelling narrative.
8. Does the $70 price tag affect digital pre-orders?
Yes, the $70 price applies to both physical and digital versions of the game. Digital pre-orders through the Nintendo eShop will also reflect this price.
9. Can I return Tears of the Kingdom if I don’t like it?
Return policies vary by retailer. Check the specific return policy of the store where you purchase the game before opening it.
10. Are the graphics better in Tears of the Kingdom compared to Breath of the Wild?
While the overall art style is similar, Tears of the Kingdom features graphical improvements, including better draw distances and enhanced visual details.
11. What is the most valuable item in Tears of the Kingdom that I can sell to make rupees?
Diamonds are one of the most valuable items to sell in the game, providing a substantial amount of rupees.
12. How long does it take to complete Tears of the Kingdom?
The main story can take around 59 hours to complete, but completionists can spend hundreds of hours exploring and completing all side content.
13. Is Nintendo making a Breath of the Wild 3?
While there are no official announcements about a direct sequel to Tears of the Kingdom, the success of the Zelda series makes it highly likely that Nintendo will continue to develop new entries.
14. Will Costco sell Tears of the Kingdom at a discounted price?
Costco has been known to offer popular games at discounted prices, so it is worth checking their shelves for Tears of the Kingdom.
15. How much time passes between Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom?
The game is estimated to take place roughly five to six years after the events of Breath of the Wild.