Unveiling the Past: When Was the Age of Calamity DLC Announced?

The Age of Calamity Expansion Pass, a trove of downloadable content for Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, was officially announced on February 17th, 2021, during a Nintendo Direct presentation. This announcement sent waves of excitement throughout the Zelda and Warriors communities, promising a deeper dive into the events leading up to Breath of the Wild.

Diving Deep into the Age of Calamity DLC

The announcement outlined a two-part DLC release, offering new characters, stages, story content, and more for a single purchase price. This Expansion Pass promised to enrich the existing game and provide players with even more reasons to return to the war against the Calamity. Let’s further explore all aspects of the Age of Calamity DLC.

Key Details of the Announcement

The Nintendo Direct revealed that the Expansion Pass would consist of two distinct waves of content, each with its own unique offerings. Pre-orders for the pass opened on May 28, 2021, building further anticipation for the impending releases. The announcement was a significant moment for fans eager to expand their experience within the Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity universe.

Expansion Pass Content Waves

• Wave 1: Pulse of the Ancients released on June 18, 2021.
• Wave 2: Guardian of Remembrance released on November 5, 2021.

Each wave introduced new content, providing fans with a steady stream of fresh gameplay and narrative experiences. The Pulse of the Ancients DLC introduced new characters, weapons, and challenging content, and the Guardian of Remembrance DLC added new playable characters, additional stages, and emotional new story sequences.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Age of Calamity DLC

Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Age of Calamity DLC, addressing various aspects of its content, canonicity, and gameplay:

1. When was the first wave of Age of Calamity DLC released?

   The first wave of the Age of Calamity DLC, titled “Pulse of the Ancients,” was released on June 18, 2021. This DLC introduced new characters, weapons, and challenging content to expand the base game experience.

2. How much did the Age of Calamity Expansion Pass cost?

   The Age of Calamity Expansion Pass, which included both waves of DLC, was priced at $19.99 USD. This single purchase granted access to all the additional content as it was released.

3. Is the Age of Calamity DLC considered canon to the Legend of Zelda timeline?

   Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is generally considered non-canon to the main Legend of Zelda timeline. While it explores the events leading up to Breath of the Wild, it presents an alternate, divergent timeline where certain key events unfold differently.

4. What kind of content was included in the Age of Calamity DLC?

   The Age of Calamity DLC included a variety of content, such as new playable characters, additional stages, new weapon types, challenging quests and scenarios, and additional story content that expanded upon the lore and characters established in the base game.

5. Can you play the DLC at any point during the game?

   Yes, you can play the Age of Calamity DLC at any point, although it’s recommended to progress through the main story first. The DLC content unlocks gradually as you advance through the game’s chapters, seamlessly integrating into the overall experience.

6. Does the Age of Calamity DLC add new story elements?

   Yes, both waves of the Age of Calamity DLC add new story elements that further explore the events leading up to the Great Calamity. These story sequences delve into the motivations and relationships of the characters, providing a deeper understanding of the world of Breath of the Wild.

7. How many playable characters does the Age of Calamity DLC add?

   The Age of Calamity DLC adds several new playable characters, including characters like Terrako and others. The specific number and identities of these characters were revealed over time as each wave of the DLC was released.

8. Did the DLC improve gameplay?

   Yes, the Age of Calamity DLC improved the gameplay by introducing new combat mechanics, weapon types, and character abilities. These additions added depth and variety to the combat system, offering players new ways to engage with the game’s challenges.

9. Were the DLC characters and stages high quality?

   Many players and critics generally agree that the DLC content was high quality. The new characters and stages were well-designed and integrated seamlessly into the existing game, providing fresh and engaging experiences.

10. Did the Age of Calamity DLC resolve any unanswered questions from Breath of the Wild?

    While the Age of Calamity DLC didn’t necessarily resolve all unanswered questions from Breath of the Wild, it did provide additional context and insights into the events that shaped the world. It offered a glimpse into the lives and struggles of the characters, enriching the overall narrative.

11. Can you unlock Calamity Ganon as a playable character in Age of Calamity?

    Yes, Calamity Ganon can be unlocked as a playable character in Age of Calamity, but it requires completing specific challenges after unlocking all other playable characters. This adds a unique and powerful character to the roster.

12. Who is considered the best playable character in Age of Calamity?

    While opinions vary, Link is often considered one of the best playable characters in Age of Calamity due to his versatile moveset and powerful abilities. Other strong contenders include Impa, Urbosa, and certain DLC characters.

13. How many hours does it take to complete Age of Calamity with the DLC?

    The time it takes to complete Age of Calamity with the DLC varies depending on your playstyle. On average, focusing on the main objectives may take around 30-35 hours, while completing all content, including DLC quests and challenges, can take upwards of 80-100 hours.

14. Is Age of Calamity a sequel or prequel?

    Age of Calamity is a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. It tells the story of the events leading up to the Great Calamity, which occurred 100 years before the events of Breath of the Wild. It is important to note that the events might not be fully canon, as the game depicts an alternate timeline.

15. Where does Age of Calamity fit within the Legend of Zelda timeline?

    While Age of Calamity is set a century before Breath of the Wild, it exists in a separate, divergent timeline. This means that the events depicted in Age of Calamity may not align perfectly with the established canon of the Legend of Zelda series.

Final Thoughts

The announcement of the Age of Calamity Expansion Pass on February 17th, 2021, was a significant moment for fans, promising a deeper dive into the world of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. With new characters, stages, and story content, the DLC expanded the game in meaningful ways, offering players even more reasons to return to the battle against the Calamity. Whether you’re a seasoned Hyrule Warriors veteran or a newcomer to the series, the Age of Calamity DLC provided a wealth of content to explore and enjoy.

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