The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

 Switch
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 20981 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17,830 out of 20981
  2. Mixed: 1,176 out of 20981
  3. Negative: 1,975 out of 20981
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  1. ShadeBreaker015
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    I'm a sucker for open world games, and I love the characters and stories of Legend of Zelda. This game, in my opinion, is perfection. Sure, the frame rate dips, but that doesn't seem like a big deal tbh. I've never been to big on the Zelda series from a gameplay standpoint, as that just isn't my style. This game, on the other hand, is right up my alley, and I'm psyched out of my mind thatI'm a sucker for open world games, and I love the characters and stories of Legend of Zelda. This game, in my opinion, is perfection. Sure, the frame rate dips, but that doesn't seem like a big deal tbh. I've never been to big on the Zelda series from a gameplay standpoint, as that just isn't my style. This game, on the other hand, is right up my alley, and I'm psyched out of my mind that it's such a great game. I've already sunk hours and hours into it, I got the Switch at launch for it, and I adore the way you can go about anything at any point if you know what you're doing!

    Overall, this game deserves the praise it gets. It's purely amazing.    … Expand
  2. Onzlo
    Mar 16, 2017
    10
    This game is quite easily the best game I have played. As an owner of PS4, Xbox One, and a Switch, I believe that Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild is the best exclusive of all time. closely followed by the Uncharted and Forza series. A great step forward for nintendo which has given me and many other switch owners confidence that the switch will go strong for years to come as one ofThis game is quite easily the best game I have played. As an owner of PS4, Xbox One, and a Switch, I believe that Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild is the best exclusive of all time. closely followed by the Uncharted and Forza series. A great step forward for nintendo which has given me and many other switch owners confidence that the switch will go strong for years to come as one of the best consoles out there. Even if the Great Plateau was the size of the whole game it wouldn't be awful, there is so much to do all around the area and it only gets better when you leave. Great job nintendo!… Expand
  3. Ragz101
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    I have actually played this game. Bought a Switch and the game and I've sunk close to 60+ hours into it and can give spoilers to prove it.
    I am giving this game a 10 out of 10. maybe like a 9.7 if you wanna be super picky about it. but since there's no decimal system here im rounding up because it deserves it.
    Dispel the rumors that this game is too "hand holdy" or other such nonsense    I have actually played this game. Bought a Switch and the game and I've sunk close to 60+ hours into it and can give spoilers to prove it.
    I am giving this game a 10 out of 10. maybe like a 9.7 if you wanna be super picky about it. but since there's no decimal system here im rounding up because it deserves it.

    Dispel the rumors that this game is too "hand holdy" or other such nonsense peddled by PlayStation Fanboys or people trying to "balance" the reviews. This game is a masterpiece. In the technical department i have found no glitches, game breaking or otherwise, and the frame rate problems reported by early reviewers have largely been patched by the day one update to the point of being no longer noticeable for the most part.

    As far as the game itself story, graphics, gameplay, scale, and scope: this game is a masterpiece or near masterpiece. Now, let me get this out of the way. This story is fantastic for what it needs to be. this is not Mass Effect. Like any Zelda game it's primarily self contained, not a vast story branching several games to create a cinematic masterclass for the ages. That being said, the story to this game, told in an interesting non linear fashion, is still great. probably one of the best stories Nintendo has ever put out and certainly one that actually gives characters CHARACTER. The non linear mode of storytelling is actually one that fits this game rather well, as many plot points are connected to others, but not chronologically. and what points are in a specific chronological order are fun do discover and will be enough to keep achievement hunters happy, despite the fact that Nintendo has no achievement system. The voice acting is something that, for the most part, is well done. there are one or two characters who's voice acting is a bit flat and a lot of that has to do with the fact that this is a dubbed game made in Japan. the Japanese voice acting probably fits the character's speech pattern better but I dont know, I don't speak Japanese. But the few faults in the voice acting are rendered pretty inconsequential as for the most part the voice acting that is there is good and voice acting is not the only/main form of dialogue (Nintendo does love their text box dialogue, and some traditions don't need to be broken).

    Gameplay and Graphics: The art style is amazing. A lot of people are complaining about this and that its not as realistic as many new gen games are (such as the new PS game Horizon). But i learned that this particular issue is null. Stylized graphics will help this game in the long run and it will age beautifully. This artstyle makes the game feel like playing through a brilliantly made painting in the best way. Wind Waker came out almost 15 years ago and it still looks gorgeous, thanks to its highly stylized graphics, meanwhile games like Resident Evil 4 don't look so good by comparison. Breath of the Wild has found a near perfect balance between beautiful stylized graphics and HD oriented detail. Gameplay is fluid, fun, crisp, and intuitive. At first the motion control feels a little invasive, until you've played it for more than 2 hours and then try it without the motion controls, you will find the lack of fine tuning using a simple tilt of the wrist is sorely missed. This is probably one of Zelda's best combat systems. Perfect dodges and parries reward those of us with innate timing abilities, but you don't need to be a master of timing to survive or even thrive in this game. Climbing ( a main mechanic, believe me) is well done. the only awkward controls i've found were the horse riding, which ceased to be awkward withing 10 minutes of using it.

    The scale and scope of this game is simply massive. There is no better way to put it. Massive in the best way. Not only do you feel like this game is bigger than the likes of Skyrim (you can really feel the fact that the overworld is 3x the size) but it looks amazing. the scale of the world is balanced in such a way that everything looks accessible but once you start your journey you realize just how far away it is. I thought the beginning area of the game was pretty big at first, now after discovering the entire map it looks tiny by comparison. Not only is the world massive, but its teaming with life and things to do. entire sections of the map are set up for new challenges. 900 Korok puzzles and 120 shrines more than make up for the lower amount of dungeons, and while some of the main dungeons are easier than others, they all pose a unique challenge and bring something new to the Zelda table, which is an intimidating task considering the fame of Ocarina of Time's Water Temple is among them.

    This game is a masterpiece, a watershed moment for a series that has been putting out hit after hit for over 30 years. i give it a 10/10    … Expand
  4. Ahrimotto
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    A great game, a masterpiece without a doubt!
    Hundreds of hours of pure entertainment: if you like adventure, if you like gaming, you hardly can't love this one.

    It deserve a 10? Yes.
  5. Eth14
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This game is almost perfect. Why? Well, the graphics, while not fully realistic, are simply stunning in handheld and docked mode. And while there is a few FPS drops here and there, these a rare, not very noticeable, and the game is completely playable.

    The explorable world is also this games strong point. You can go to almost anywhere you see, with hardly any limitations. Random enemy    This game is almost perfect. Why? Well, the graphics, while not fully realistic, are simply stunning in handheld and docked mode. And while there is a few FPS drops here and there, these a rare, not very noticeable, and the game is completely playable.

    The explorable world is also this games strong point. You can go to almost anywhere you see, with hardly any limitations. Random enemy encounters are also able to be overcame by multiple ways, the game doesn't force you to solve a puzzle or defeat an enemy in a particular way, it is up to you. The freedom you have is extraordinary,

    In my opinion, this game will go down as one of the best games of all time. Well done Nintendo, you have created a beautiful game that will be looked back on as the greatest game of the 2000s, if not ever.    … Expand
  6. SrRama
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Vivir una experiencia de juego así sucede muy poquitas veces en la vida, tras más de 20 años como jugador multiplataforma(siempre con PC como plataforma principal) Nintendo ha conseguido dejarme maravillado , ha conseguido que me crea un videojuego que me sienta el protagonista, que el mundo que representa me resulte "mi otro mundo.

    -Banda sonora, voces, traducción efectos de sonido    Vivir una experiencia de juego así sucede muy poquitas veces en la vida, tras más de 20 años como jugador multiplataforma(siempre con PC como plataforma principal) Nintendo ha conseguido dejarme maravillado , ha conseguido que me crea un videojuego que me sienta el protagonista, que el mundo que representa me resulte "mi otro mundo.

    -Banda sonora, voces, traducción efectos de sonido que quitan el hipo
    -Los cambios de climatológicos y las transacciones de día a noche son impresionantes
    -Las físicas del juego hacen todo creíble
    -La libertad de "escribir tu aventura" me recuerda al libro Rayuela de Julio Cortázar(salvando las distancias) es una mavarilla tener esa libertad y que todo encaje de manera perfecta.

    Podría tirarme todo el día enumarando pequeños detalles como la vegetación, el comportamiento de los animales, el tema de escalar y poder ir a donde quieras y no pararía de escribir, como único punto negativo algunas caídas de frames en modo tv que espero que con el tiempo lo solucionen con actualizaciones aunque para nada arruinan la experiencia de juego.

    Como último punto solo diré que es jodidamente divertido.    … Expand
  7. laermhexe
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This game is the epitome of everything nintendo has been making for us in the past 30 odd years or so. This game is perfect. It is the game that you have been waiting your entire life to play.
  8. ScavengerDragon
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    Solid 10. Now how can I say it's deserving of a 10? I picked up a Nintendo Switch at launch, along with Breath Of The Wild, and Super Bomberman R. Zelda has been keeping my attention more so than other games to come out in recent years.

    If I had to reason why this game gets such a high score...It would have to be because it's a vast open world. It's a post apocalyptic Zelda that needs    Solid 10. Now how can I say it's deserving of a 10? I picked up a Nintendo Switch at launch, along with Breath Of The Wild, and Super Bomberman R. Zelda has been keeping my attention more so than other games to come out in recent years.

    If I had to reason why this game gets such a high score...It would have to be because it's a vast open world. It's a post apocalyptic Zelda that needs to be respected by the individual player. This does not mean you have to praise it as a solid game. This means that each user should take their own time to enjoy the game and explore the landscape as they see fit. Some might beat this game in a few hours, while players like me will take the time to savor the many different experiences this game offers from the 120 trials that are scattered throughout Hyrule, to completing the multitude of side quests that are offered by AI.

    Every weapon is crucial. You can use a variety of them and get attached to them so easily but some break faster, while others will last you a few more bouts. but that's okay! Because it's never difficult to find a new weapon when you need them. I love the different assortment of weapons that I've found in my quest so far.

    Overall this is a game that demands respect. Not absolute love because I say so, but because it's something the developers breathed life into. It took them a few years to get it to us but that's OK. Because what we were left with, is something that is a memorable experience that challenges what we understood about Zelda, and turns it into so much more, and the game sets Nintendo up with a large gap in the time line where they can make future Zelda titles without worrying about the timeline issue.    … Expand
  9. Dernoke
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    As a life time Zelda fan i truly was first afraid of this new game. I love every aspekt of what's makes this Franchise to what it is today and i allways knew that each new titel would twist the Gameplay and style we all know and love. And still as i saw this game i was afraid that it would disconnect to what it truly means to be a Zelda Game. But now after two weaks i can say without anyAs a life time Zelda fan i truly was first afraid of this new game. I love every aspekt of what's makes this Franchise to what it is today and i allways knew that each new titel would twist the Gameplay and style we all know and love. And still as i saw this game i was afraid that it would disconnect to what it truly means to be a Zelda Game. But now after two weaks i can say without any regrets that this is truly one of the best or even the best Games i've ever come to play. The Story is interesting and brings some unexpected emotions with it. The Compat is thrilling andchallenging. The Soundtrack is great and the freedom wich the game offers you is so insane that i can't even discribe it. The graphics are not photorealist or Amazingly over the top but with an nice cel shading look and top animations this games just feals and looks right. in the end it realy catches the essenc of it ancestors.… Expand
  10. toejamfungus
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played. Seriously an emotional journey of self discovery. I highly recommend that everyone give this game a try and see the masterpiece for yourself.
  11. YasmineEva
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A spectacular game. Once in a generation. I felt like a sandbox open world was what the developers of Ocarina of Time dreamed of but could never accomplish due to memory constraints. The weapon variety is great. I just completed the Ruta quest and received a spear with an electric shock ability.… Expand
  12. Zeldafan999
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the best games in the series since Ocarina of time. I have to say I knew that the game would be an open world, but I wasn't expecting to be more open than Skyrim. I had so many options to explore wherever I want and do the story way later. I could even go to the final boss almost right away if I wanted to, though I'll be obliterated the moment I face it. The durability for the weapons was a neat and fitting idea for Breath of the Wild, and while not necessary to pick em all up, it does help preparing you for future and/or unexpected fights, especially if your current one is close to breaking. One issue is mostly the inventory space for bows, melee weapons, and shields, and accessing them to equip them. However it's not enough to stop me from playing it the game.

    The difficulty of the game is pretty much right. When coming across an enemy, you have to think strategically before facing them, since they can't be defeated the same way as the previous Zelda games, which is a pretty neat change. If you recklessly go into battle without preparing yourself, you will fall in battle in seconds. The bosses in the main dungeons are not very difficult, but I wouldn't say they were easy either.

    The puzzles in the shrines are pretty rewarding, even the basic ones. You can also make a hard puzzle very simple when using motion controls. For example, I came across a maze that I had to solve. Instead of doing it the hard way, I just flipped it upside down and took the ball to the goal with little to no problems. Some of the shrines (mostly the tests of strength) have the same mechanics, but sometimes it's a good thing to not go through other types of puzzles when they get frustrating.

    I love how the physics of the game follow the rules, and act naturally like in real life (deer eating grass, boulders being pushed and how Link experiences extreme temperatures). The good thing about the game is that I haven't encountered any bugs, minor or major, though sometimes, the game will temporarily freeze up for a second or two, but it's not a very big deal.

    The Breath of the Wild deserves the Game of the Year, because it's the most enjoyable, breathtaking, and challenging game I have ever played in awhile.    … Expand
  13. TheBolt
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    The Wii U exits not with a wimper, but an explosion with one of the finest video games ever made.

    The WU might have been a rerelative failure, but it gave us some top quality and unique experiences such as Xenoblade Chronicles, Lego City Undercover, Nintendoland , Super Mario Maker, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, Bayonetta 2, Pikmin 3, Captain Toad, Super Smash Brothers and finally its    The Wii U exits not with a wimper, but an explosion with one of the finest video games ever made.

    The WU might have been a rerelative failure, but it gave us some top quality and unique experiences such as Xenoblade Chronicles, Lego City Undercover, Nintendoland , Super Mario Maker, Mario Kart 8, Splatoon, Bayonetta 2, Pikmin 3, Captain Toad, Super Smash Brothers and finally its great3st game...    … Expand
  14. mrbrownie
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    It's really sad and hilarious to see the jealous haters giving this game a bad score. Clearly they haven't played the game, and just want it to fail. This game is one of the best games this year, Nintendo really went all out with it. The game is amazing, thanks to the stunning graphics, beautiful soundtrack, and fun gameplay. If you're a big zelda fan, do yourself a favor and buy thisIt's really sad and hilarious to see the jealous haters giving this game a bad score. Clearly they haven't played the game, and just want it to fail. This game is one of the best games this year, Nintendo really went all out with it. The game is amazing, thanks to the stunning graphics, beautiful soundtrack, and fun gameplay. If you're a big zelda fan, do yourself a favor and buy this game. It's definitely worth the full price.… Expand
  15. hdu
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    Just a phenomenal game all the way around. In most games, I hate exploring. I actually like exploring in this game. Another plus is that the combat feels intense and rewarding. I could go on, but I'm going to go play more.
  16. Nackley
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    Incredible game. It's an absolute masterpiece. They've revolutionized the Zelda formula and give you something so unique and fresh it takes your breath away.
  17. OrganicPepper
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    The amazing thing about BotW is that half the fun is running around. You wont get bored running from one side to the other because before long you'll get sidetracked and find yourself on the other side of the world than you originally wanted to go to. Generally I hate open world because I get so bored in their gigantic worlds, but Zelda is different, its incomparable. The world is livingThe amazing thing about BotW is that half the fun is running around. You wont get bored running from one side to the other because before long you'll get sidetracked and find yourself on the other side of the world than you originally wanted to go to. Generally I hate open world because I get so bored in their gigantic worlds, but Zelda is different, its incomparable. The world is living and breathig, teeming with life and secrets. I have never encountered an area I was bored in. The only time I use the quick travel is when I have a specific goal in mind, which I hardly do. Its usually just 'what can I find today'. Before the game launched I was worried about whether I was going to enjoy the new gameplay, but I say with confidence it is the best Zelda game if not the best game ever created.… Expand
  18. kocker
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    Pedazo de juego tiene un mapa re-gigante. el unico problema es un poco los fps espero que lo arreglen con alguna actualización, como me gustaria ver un remasted en switch del ocarina!!! 10/10
  19. kvelez830
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This game is simply stunning. The graphics, the open world gameplay, the insanely huge map.... it's incredible. 10/10 without a doubt. I haven't even made it to the first dungeon because I've spent so much time exploring, unlocking shrines and side quests, activating towers, and becoming a natural chef ;) The soundtrack is quite beautiful as well.
  20. zeldaCritic
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    I have played Twilight Princess, Wind Waker and a few other Zelda titles. Being halfway through this game with more than 40 hours into I have to say that this is my favorite Zelda game of all time. I have to provide support - it is truly deserving of the 10/10 review as a game that signifies a major shift in perspective for the industry. Count on there being more games modeled after thisI have played Twilight Princess, Wind Waker and a few other Zelda titles. Being halfway through this game with more than 40 hours into I have to say that this is my favorite Zelda game of all time. I have to provide support - it is truly deserving of the 10/10 review as a game that signifies a major shift in perspective for the industry. Count on there being more games modeled after this one and Nintendo having a fiscally profitable time in the near future.

    Nintendo, you truly made something that people experienced in a new and exciting way. Way to be. :)    … Expand
  21. El_Macho99
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This game is by far the best game I have ever played. The mechanics to this game and the story emerges me to keep on playing it. I've gotten a lot anti social with the people around me because I'm just thinking what I could be doing in this game.
  22. metalreflectsli
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It takes over 200 hours to 100% on the first play-through using no guides. There are 900 Korok Seeds, 120 shrines, 4 dungeons.

    I am upset that there are only 60 slots for cooked meals / elixirs though.

    BotW will be a contender for Game of the Year along with Red Dead Redemption 2, Nioh, NieR: Automata.    … Expand
  23. newsting
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    If you've finished this game you cannot rate it a zero... That is so hypocritical and mindless, a zero in my mind has to be totally unplayable or pointless, this game is neither. That being said the worst that it should be rated is around a 4 or a 5. Honestly, some people's kids....
  24. Icket
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    30 hours in and I feel like I've barely started the game yet. Not many single player games draw my attention anymore but I swear this is the best game ever.
  25. redsunz
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Anywhere you can go and explore,but not inside water for a reason. After, the first place,Quest can be done or not done. Even main quest,you can beat the boss straight. if you got enough skill you can. No need to waste time to level up you character, just get a good weapon,and shield then it good.
  26. 4Fr0
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    True Zelda! You really feel like the world is alive. Around every corner there is something of someone to find. I really feel that Zelda has found its roots again big world that you can explore by yourself. Just like the origanal NES game.

    I have played it for more then 10 hours now. In that time I had moments that the game surprises me. If I can think it in this game, I can also do it.    True Zelda! You really feel like the world is alive. Around every corner there is something of someone to find. I really feel that Zelda has found its roots again big world that you can explore by yourself. Just like the origanal NES game.

    I have played it for more then 10 hours now. In that time I had moments that the game surprises me. If I can think it in this game, I can also do it. It really let's you play it your style and rewards you for it.

    BEST GAME EVER!!!    … Expand
  27. sargenttacos
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    This game is INCREDIBLE!!!I love everything about it!!! It's so beautiful i cant help but look out at the world. I do think that the voice acting is a real nice addition, however the VA for Zelda doesn't sit well with me.
  28. Mellro
    Apr 20, 2017
    10
    Francamente, me indigna en verdad la campaña de desprestigio con la que los trolls están intentando - sin mucho éxito, en verdad - sabotear un juego que prácticamente por sí solo ha conseguido convertir una tablet de mierda - con la que estoy disfrutando como un enano, eso sí - en una amenaza seria... ¡para el porno de internet! He dicho.
  29. Crisalfa
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Señores, estamosbfrente a uno de los mejores juegos de la historia. Justo cuando estaba perdiendo la fé por la calidad de videojuegos de este último tiempo, aparee esta joya para marcar su paso y revolucionar en la historia.
  30. weetabixfork
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    I have truly enjoyed playing this game, so much! The open world experience is huge and excellent, with so much to do. There are over 120 shrines/dungeons to complete, and the open world s littered with side quests and mini-games. This game offers hours and hours of playability. Plus there is a huge range of weapons, gear and other collectables. The RPG experience is great too, as there isI have truly enjoyed playing this game, so much! The open world experience is huge and excellent, with so much to do. There are over 120 shrines/dungeons to complete, and the open world s littered with side quests and mini-games. This game offers hours and hours of playability. Plus there is a huge range of weapons, gear and other collectables. The RPG experience is great too, as there is loads of room to upgrade Link throughout. The music fits very well. The story is interesting. I also love the dynamic physics of the game, which is surprisingly realistic. The way you can burn, freeze, electrocute and wet stuff. It makes the game so much more immersive. As a software developer myself, I can see a lot of top-class programming has gone into this game. The graphics may not be super duper real-world realistic, like recent releases, such as Horizon Zero Dawn, but the stylistic look they have gone for in Zelda, makes the game more realistic and immersive. For instance, the plants actually move when you walk through them, unlike the game just mentioned. In other words, the graphics are timeless and beautiful. You may think my review is over the top, but I really can't stop playing this game. Some may not like this, but I will say that this game is better the Ocarina of Time. This game is a must play for everyone!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Switch Game of 2017
1
#1 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2017
1
#1 Most Shared Switch Game of 2017

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
97

Universal acclaim - based on 109 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 106 out of 109
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 109
  3. Negative: 0 out of 109
  1. GameGrin
    Dec 12, 2017
    100
    Where it takes mechanics from others in the industry, it improves upon them; where it introduces new ones, you slap your forehead in amazement that it hasn’t been done before. Breath of the Wild is development done right, and damn near the best game you’ll play all year.
    Read full review
  2. Wired UK
    Aug 30, 2017
    100
    Breath of the Wild is a masterpiece.
    Read full review
  3. Games Master UK
    May 19, 2017
    96
    Up there with the finest Zelda games, Breath of the Wild is bold, liberating, and utterly astonishing. [Apr 2017, p.60]
See all critic reviews »