Is the New Zelda Game Only on Switch? A Deep Dive for Hyrule Explorers

Yes, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is exclusively available on the Nintendo Switch. There are no versions for PlayStation, Xbox, PC, or any other gaming platform. Nintendo developed the game specifically for their console, leveraging its unique capabilities and building upon the established foundation of Breath of the Wild. This exclusivity is a core part of Nintendo’s strategy, and it’s a key reason why so many gamers flock to the Switch.

Why is Zelda Exclusive to Nintendo?

The reason Zelda is a Nintendo exclusive is deeply rooted in the company’s history and strategy. The Legend of Zelda franchise is one of Nintendo’s flagship properties, developed and published solely by them. Keeping Zelda exclusive helps to drive sales of the Nintendo Switch console, as many gamers are willing to purchase the console specifically to play the latest installment in the series. This exclusivity model has proven successful for Nintendo over the years, solidifying their position in the gaming industry.

Understanding the Zelda Landscape on Switch

The Switch has become a haven for Zelda fans, boasting not only brand-new experiences like Tears of the Kingdom but also a selection of classics and spin-offs. This makes the Switch arguably the best platform for Zelda enthusiasts currently. Let’s explore what’s available and what’s missing.

What Zelda Games Can You Play on Switch?

The Nintendo Switch offers a diverse range of Zelda titles, including:

• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild: The groundbreaking open-world adventure that redefined the series.
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom: The highly anticipated sequel to Breath of the Wild.
• The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (Remake): A charming reimagining of the Game Boy classic.
• Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition: A Musou-style action game featuring characters and settings from the Zelda universe.
• Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity: A prequel to Breath of the Wild, focusing on the events leading up to the Great Calamity.
• Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda: A unique rhythm-based spin-off.
• The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask: Available via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: Available via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
• The Legend of Zelda: Available via Nintendo Switch Online.
• The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past: Available via Nintendo Switch Online.
• The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons/Ages: Available via Nintendo Switch Online.
• The Legend of Zelda: Minish Cap: Available via Nintendo Switch Online.

What Zelda Games are Missing from the Switch?

Despite the impressive lineup, some notable Zelda games are currently unavailable on the Switch, creating demand for potential future remasters or ports:

• The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess: A fan-favorite for its darker tone and compelling story.
• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker: Known for its unique cel-shaded art style and nautical exploration.
• The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass: A direct sequel to The Wind Waker, continuing its story.
• The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks: Another DS entry, focusing on train-based travel.
• The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds: A sequel to A Link to the Past, introducing new mechanics.
• The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords: A multiplayer-focused Zelda game.
• The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures: Another multiplayer Zelda adventure.
• The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes: A cooperative multiplayer Zelda game.
• The Legend of Zelda 3DS Remakes: Specifically, Ocarina of Time 3D and Majora’s Mask 3D, which have visual enhancements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Zelda and the Switch

Here are some common questions Zelda fans have about the games and the Nintendo Switch:

1. Will Tears of the Kingdom work on my old Switch? Yes, Tears of the Kingdom is designed to run on all models of the Nintendo Switch, including the original. While you might experience minor performance differences, the core gameplay experience remains consistent.

2. Is the Tears of the Kingdom OLED Switch better than the regular Switch for playing? The Switch OLED offers a more vibrant display and improved handheld experience, making it a great choice for those who primarily play in handheld mode. However, the performance of the game itself remains largely the same across all Switch models. The OLED screen also looks crisp and vibrant. Definitely worth the pick up if you’re a Zelda fan looking to upgrade from an original Switch

3. Is it worth buying a Switch just for Tears of the Kingdom? For many fans, the answer is a resounding yes. Tears of the Kingdom is a massive, critically acclaimed game that offers a unique and unforgettable experience. If you’re a Zelda enthusiast or a fan of open-world adventures, it’s a compelling reason to invest in a Switch.

4. Why is Tears of the Kingdom so hard? Tears of the Kingdom introduces new challenges, including tougher enemies and the Gloom mechanic, which can quickly deplete your health. The game encourages strategic combat and resource management to overcome these obstacles.

5. What is the best Zelda game to start with on the Switch? Breath of the Wild is widely considered an excellent entry point to the series, thanks to its open-world freedom and accessible gameplay. Its popularity and acclaim make it a great introduction to the world of Zelda.

6. Can I play Zelda 1 on Switch? Yes, the original Legend of Zelda is available through the Nintendo Switch Online service. This allows you to experience the classic adventure that started it all.

7. Do they have Zelda for PlayStation or Xbox? No, the Legend of Zelda is exclusively developed and published by Nintendo, meaning it will not appear on PlayStation or Xbox consoles.

8. Can I play Breath of the Wild without playing other Zelda games? Absolutely. Breath of the Wild is designed as a standalone experience, so you don’t need prior knowledge of the series to enjoy it. While there are references to past games, they are not essential to understanding the story.

9. Why is Tears of the Kingdom more expensive than other Switch games? Nintendo has stated that the price of Tears of the Kingdom reflects the “type of experience fans can expect,” suggesting a particularly large and content-filled game.

10. Is Tears of the Kingdom better than Breath of the Wild? Whether Tears of the Kingdom is “better” is subjective, but it improves on many of Breath of the Wild‘s flaws while introducing new mechanics and a more intricate narrative. The game also introduces more intricate side quests and visually stunning graphics.

11. Should I upgrade from Switch to Switch OLED for Zelda? If you primarily play in handheld mode and value a better screen, the upgrade to the Switch OLED is worthwhile. If you mostly play on a TV, the performance benefits may not justify the cost.

12. Can you play Tears of the Kingdom on a normal Switch? Yes, Tears of the Kingdom is fully compatible with the standard Nintendo Switch model. All Switches run the same graphics.

13. Should I replay Breath of the Wild before Tears of the Kingdom? While not essential, replaying Breath of the Wild can familiarize you with the world, characters, and basic gameplay mechanics, making the transition to Tears of the Kingdom smoother.

14. Are all Zelda games canon? The Zelda timeline is complex and debated, but the continuity between games is generally loose. The only games that strictly follow on with their sequels are Breath of the Wild and The Wind Waker.

15. Is Skyward Sword an open-world game? No, Skyward Sword is not an open-world game like Breath of the Wild. It features a more linear structure with interconnected areas.

The Enduring Appeal of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda’s enduring appeal comes from its blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, combat, and compelling storytelling. The franchise constantly evolves while staying true to its core values, attracting new players and keeping veterans engaged. The Games Learning Society examines how games like Zelda contribute to cognitive development and problem-solving skills. You can learn more about the societal impacts of gaming at GamesLearningSociety.org.

Final Thoughts: A Hyrule Adventure Awaits

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom being exclusive to the Nintendo Switch underscores the console’s importance in the gaming landscape. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a newcomer to Hyrule, the Switch offers a wealth of Zelda experiences to enjoy. So grab your Master Sword, sharpen your Hylian Shield, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!