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. night4
    Dec 31, 2017
    7
    It's a walking simulator with weapons that break. Meh.

    It looks decent, so at least there's that positive thing to say about it. I don't think it deserves "Game of the Year" by a longshot.
  2. PlayorNaygames
    Mar 7, 2017
    10
    I very, very rarely consider a game a 10, but Zelda is the best open world game since modern open world games became prevalent with the release of GTA 3. This is coming from a guy that doesn't usually like many Zelda games. Breath of the Wild still feels like Zelda in some ways, but forget most of what you knew about Zelda.

    Many of the things that were annoying or clunky were removed    I very, very rarely consider a game a 10, but Zelda is the best open world game since modern open world games became prevalent with the release of GTA 3. This is coming from a guy that doesn't usually like many Zelda games. Breath of the Wild still feels like Zelda in some ways, but forget most of what you knew about Zelda.

    Many of the things that were annoying or clunky were removed from Zelda to make the game more fun (like needing bottles to hold things, now you can just catch and put into your inventory or you can catch fish just by swimming up to them and grabbing them, no need for a fishing pole, ect.).

    The combat is fluid and Dark Souls like (but not hard like DS). The crafting system takes what makes it fun in other games, but still give you useful items if you make a dud. Yes weapons break quickly, but you find new ones all the time and you have other creative ways to slay enemies using your powers or the environment. The are lots of different enemies to fight with different behavior and attacks depending on their element or the weapon they hold.

    The real joy in Zelda is the exploration. Never before has an open-world game felt so intriguing. There's always something interesting right around the corner to discover. This isn't your run of the mill, same repeated crap over and over. I'm continually surprised how often I find or do something that was unexpected and that's what makes the exploration so much fun. The game is great at providing rewards that make you actually want to explore the world, unlike most other open world games.

    The art style is gorgeous even if some of the textures are low resolution. The frame rate can get choppy at times. These things are very minor and don't detract from the experience. The music is a great mix of old and new and is very appropriate and pleasing to listen too. The sound effects are fine and the classics are all there. There is little voice acting (only in cutscenes) and NPCs talk where they make weird noises before they speak like in other Zelda games.

    The story is more fleshed out than other Zelda games. No it's not a Bioware game, but should you explore the main story you'll get a lot of lore and exposition from the many NPCs. I don't want to spoil anything, but it's much better than prior Zelda games.

    The game can be harder than a normal Zelda game at first because the game has a lot of new "rules", but once you get used to it, the game is joy to play. The dungeons are broken up into small shrines, which is an excellent change. The shrine challenges are fun puzzles which are usually moderate difficulty, there were none that I couldn't figure out after trying for a while.

    This game is like Ocarina of Time for N64, a revolution in its time that I expect many games to try and mimic in design going forward. Other open world games simply can't compare because they aren't nearly this much fun to explore. I recommend Breath of the Wild to anyone, all ages and genders.    … Expand
  3. HappyHermyHype
    Mar 15, 2017
    10
    The best video game I ever played. It's one of those rare Games that you don't want to end. Even if you can walk to the final boss at any moment you don't want to. You just want to continue playing :) That says a lot.
  4. jocariba
    Mar 18, 2017
    10
    Un juego mágico, no podría tener mejor jugabilidad, un antes y un después en la historia de los videojuegos, el primer juego que realmente es mundo abierto, con posibilidades prácticamente ilimitadas.
  5. Cymruan
    Mar 14, 2017
    10
    I've now beaten the main storyline, I've got plenty to keep me coming back to finish the rest of the shrines, and find the koroks. It's been a really fun game that I've not been able to put down. Loving the new direction for Zelda and looking forward to the DLC in the coming months. I'd happily recommend this game to anyone that likes zelda or open world games.
  6. BathSaltZombii
    Apr 8, 2017
    10
    Best in the series. Instantly filled with nostalgic satisfaction while introducing new elements. Features the most unique dungeons out of the series. Boss fights are highly satisfying and mix different game mechanics well. I have wanted to revisit Zelda for years and this was the perfect trip.
  7. Adam296
    Mar 6, 2017
    10
    My kids are really enjoying this as am I . A nice story and good mix of puzzle, crafting (lots of fun trying out different food combos) and fantasy combat. It may not be too chalanging for dedicated PC gamers but we are enjoying sharing progress and tips on how to solve the puzzles. The use of the environment and impact of weather and daylight is very well done. Lots of fun. I have no ideaMy kids are really enjoying this as am I . A nice story and good mix of puzzle, crafting (lots of fun trying out different food combos) and fantasy combat. It may not be too chalanging for dedicated PC gamers but we are enjoying sharing progress and tips on how to solve the puzzles. The use of the environment and impact of weather and daylight is very well done. Lots of fun. I have no idea how anyone could give it a low score - what would they have it be?… Expand
  8. BoneyBob
    Apr 5, 2017
    10
    I've played Breath of the Wild on the Switch religiously since the launch two weeks ago, and it was breathtaking. Changing the Zelda formula lets in a breath of fresh air, while still feeling like a Zelda game. It's going back to the roots of the original Zelda game on the NES, giving a true feeling of discovery and adventure, with a open world like never seen before. Nintendo has left noI've played Breath of the Wild on the Switch religiously since the launch two weeks ago, and it was breathtaking. Changing the Zelda formula lets in a breath of fresh air, while still feeling like a Zelda game. It's going back to the roots of the original Zelda game on the NES, giving a true feeling of discovery and adventure, with a open world like never seen before. Nintendo has left no stone unturned when creating this world, just like I picked up every rock to discover what was underneath it. There is so much to discover and the world never felt empty, but instead alive with a sense of danger and curiosity what might be around the next turn. The level design is simply brilliant, making excellent use of the physics and weather systems that impact the game play in an interesting way, allowing you to play around and use it to your ability. This must be the best implementation of physics in a video game since Half-Life 2, if not better. The game simply is a masterpiece, and my favorite Zelda game. Maybe even my favorite game ever, if I don't count games with nostalgic value. Yes, there are a few technical hiccups, but it didn't influence my overall experience with the game and was not really an issue. Frame drops are only noticeable in a few places on the map, and these places didn't have (much) enemies. Freezes only occurred about three times during my play trough of 100+ hours and where therefore also pretty insignificant game play wise. Frame rate has been improved with recent patches.… Expand
  9. JuanchoGDL
    Mar 8, 2017
    10
    Graphics are not everything that matters, this is by far the best nintendo game I have ever played, tyou can really feel how Link grows strong and the fact that there is no specific order just makes the game even more amazing since everyone will have their own experience playing this I STRONGLY RECOMMEND IT!!!
  10. crotch
    Mar 9, 2017
    10
    This is the best Zelda game ever, almost certainly the best Nintendo game ever, very likely the best open world game ever, and probably the best game ever. I recommend this to everyone, except the most casual player who may find this game too hard.
  11. Zodian
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    Sin duda alguna, una belleza de juego.

    - Tiene una sensación de libertad que nunca había experimentado.
    - Un mundo enorme totalmente vivo.
    - Un apartado gráfico que, sin ser algo puntero, es precioso.
    - Una banda sonora a la altura de cualquier otro Zelda.

    Si tuviese que decir cosas buenas de este juego no podría parar, ¿la pega? Que no saliese antes.
  12. GToad
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    Amazing, nintendo hit it out of the park with this one. The hype is totally worth it, the characters and combat are amazing and so detailed, and it looks absolutely beautiful, definitely a 10!
  13. HollywoodZ
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    This game is absolutely a joy from every angle. The story is well told, the gameplay is changed for the better from previous entries, and the challenge is tough, but rewarding. I've played for well over 40 hours now and I've only just defeated the first dungeon. The critics are right to give this game the amazing scores it's been receiving.

    The sheer joy of exploration and discovery is    This game is absolutely a joy from every angle. The story is well told, the gameplay is changed for the better from previous entries, and the challenge is tough, but rewarding. I've played for well over 40 hours now and I've only just defeated the first dungeon. The critics are right to give this game the amazing scores it's been receiving.

    The sheer joy of exploration and discovery is simply a treat not seen in a Zelda game since Wind Waker. If you are even slightly interested in a huge open world game with plenty to see and do, I encourage you to check out Breath of the Wild. The time you spend in this game will be as satisfying as it is rewarding.    … Expand
  14. kibbi1988
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is amazing. I've played previous Zelda games from old gen consoles. Breathe of the Wild takes it a step further, by adding a large open world, which makes the game fun to explore. It isn't like previous Zelda games that felt more linear. You can choose which temples you go to first in the main game story line, that is your choice to make, which gives you lots of room to explore the regions. The physics of the game are also really cool, everything form climbing to weather, etc.… Expand
  15. CzarSquid
    Feb 27, 2022
    0
    Spend many hours collecting disposable things, never to truly enjoy the hard work put in as everything breaks with a few swings
  16. Alkhaz
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    It's hard to find a game with this level of liberty. We're talking about doing almost everything you might do in a video game.
    Zelda: Breath of the Wild brings the freedom every player always asked for. And it does even more by allowing you to never be bored.
  17. BingoClamshell
    Mar 10, 2017
    10
    This games tastes like ****
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    10/10
  18. SpaceJam
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Absolutely enamored by Breath of the Wild. It's funny how the game takes place 100 years after the destruction of Hyrule yet everything seems so peaceful and the people seem happy. There are so many storylines within this game. From helping a farmer meet his dream girl. To helping a solder catch a criminal. There is a abundance of content to keep you busy. The game also has you (spoiler) discover Princess Zelda's lost camera. You visit the locations of the images in the photo gallery in order to recollect a memory of what happened. It's a very unique approach to the Zelda story. The main story quest line revolves around you taking control of the 4 Divine Beasts of Hyrule, which Ganon took under possession shortly before the downfall. I've had an absolute blast with it.… Expand
  19. OGSinner
    Mar 12, 2017
    10
    This is really a great game. There's a small tutorial in the beginning but after that you're on your own. I have spent most of time hunting and gathering trying to come up with new recipes and it if I stumble into a shrine I'll welcome it. I can see myself playing this game until the new Mario cones out. I haven't been so enticed by the mysteries and secrets of a game since Majora's Mask.
  20. 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
  21. 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
  22. 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
  23. 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
  24. ml511341
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    100/10 too much epicness..............................................................................................................................
  25. waddledee
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Beautiful game. Whenever I close my eyes I can still feel the peacefulness and the birds singing beside me in the grand hyrule land. This is my first zelda game, and this is no doubt, the best game I have ever played in my life.
  26. EpikGamer3000
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. Don't listen to anyone giving this bad reviews they are just dicks who refuse to believe Nintendo created a masterpiece game and a true system seller.
  27. Ave117
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Attention. This game may lead you into a bad addiction. I sunk Hours after Hours into it and can't stop. Nintendo outdid them selves with this one. I was getting tired by Zelda games after a rather disappointing Skywards Swords but this title didn't disappoint. Best Zelda since Majoras Mask.
  28. longoman
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    Definitely my second favorite Zelda game in the series. It's been a while since I've played a game this fun. I don't know why people are acting like little kids with their fake reviews here. Just because the game got perfect scores from most gaming websites doesn't mean it's perfect. It means they loved it despite some of its flaws. The game is great, with some flaws. I'm definitelyDefinitely my second favorite Zelda game in the series. It's been a while since I've played a game this fun. I don't know why people are acting like little kids with their fake reviews here. Just because the game got perfect scores from most gaming websites doesn't mean it's perfect. It means they loved it despite some of its flaws. The game is great, with some flaws. I'm definitely enjoying this game more than Skyward Sword, not saying SS was a bad game. The art style is really stunning and the music is beautiful. The world is huge for a Zelda title, there is so much to explore. Haven't stopped playing the game yet, and that's a good sign..meaning the game is so much fun.… Expand
  29. Maxman1414
    Mar 13, 2017
    9
    After about 100 hours I have come to a conclusion about this game. I have finished the game and I have to say that compared to the other Zelda games it is quite fun. I absolutely adore the aesthetic of the game although I do prefer the handheld's graphics opposed to tv mode (though I'm not sure if it's my tv's fault or the Switch's) as for the music for the most part I liked although it isAfter about 100 hours I have come to a conclusion about this game. I have finished the game and I have to say that compared to the other Zelda games it is quite fun. I absolutely adore the aesthetic of the game although I do prefer the handheld's graphics opposed to tv mode (though I'm not sure if it's my tv's fault or the Switch's) as for the music for the most part I liked although it is different than Zelda's usual tunes that get stuck in your head for hours, this game's soundtrack is mostly forgettable. What I found most upsetting of the music was the fact that not all songs from the game are on the soundtrack that comes with the special and master edition of the game. The story of the game is not the best but certainly not the worst easily ranking in the top 3 storylines of all Zelda games. I believe that a really good story should be able to make me shed at least one tear and sadly enough this game wasn't able to. Lastly I come to the gameplay though out the 100 hours I believe I only experienced 3 pretty big lag spikes usually in areas where there were lots of trees (which may or may not have been on fire) and alot of wind like in Rito Village, one of the main areas of the game. To be perfectly honest though I don't really mind lag as long as the game doesn't drop to around 15 frames per second. The puzzles I normally found pretty easy but I was never really stumped in other Zelda games so it might just be me. The dungeons yes they only have four however other zelda's also had 4 like Majora's mask and that is probably one of my favorite games of all time, to add to that Breath of the Wild also has its 100+ shrines making up more than enough puzzle solving goodness lost by the lack of main dungeons. To further add to that there is also the 900+ Korok seeds to find and a handful of side quests. Also the amount of detail put into each character and enemy is astonishing. As many of you probably know villagers would react to different things like if you try to jump off a bridge people will try to convince you otherwise believing that you are attempting suicide. Different characters respond if your wearing different clothes (or lack of). Bokoblins yell in astonishment when they realize you took their weapon when you knock them out for a brief few seconds. As I said there are so many details within this game that makes it amazing. As for replayability the game doesn't work as well as I found it quite annoying that not all cutscenes are completely skippable and it is pretty hard to not do the same thing twice if you already know an answer that works. Also I wouldn't say there are trully multiple endings as the only difference from what I've played is a 30 second cutscene that doesn't add much. Though you can always try to make your own challenges like right now I'm trying to fully beat the game with 3 hearts and without wearing armor (outside points of which it is required). There should be alot more replayability once the DLC comes out with hero mode and the new dungeon/story.

    In conclusion Breath of the Wild is an amazing game with tons of gameplay easily allowing for 100+ hours. The sheer amount of details is astounding and easily makes up for the mediocre music and pretty decent storyline. Yes it has its flaws but that didn't stop me from loving it. Is it Fun? Yeah it is! if you can get your hands on this game I would totally recommend you try it although it may be hard considering Nintendo's incapability to keep any of its hardware in stock.    … Expand
  30. MetaDeb
    Mar 13, 2017
    10
    This game is amazing. It's beautiful and It's so fun I just could not put it down. I love going around and exploring and doing the side quests. The gameplay changed things up from previous Zelda games and its great. The music is fantastic. It's just a great game. I love it And More Tunics
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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]
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