With the remarkable innovations introduced in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BOTW) and its sequel Tears of the Kingdom (TOTK), the franchise has significantly evolved. However, there are certain elements from these titles that should not carry over into future installments. Despite their ambitious worlds and widespread acclaim, some features can be quite frustrating for players, especially those new to the series. Fortunately, the franchise has the opportunity to enhance the gaming experience by adjusting its approach in upcoming titles.
There is no doubt that BOTW has reshaped the landscape of the Zelda franchise, arguably earning its place as one of the most impactful entries in the series. This game not only captivates players but also set forth many new mechanics and traditions that are evident in both TOTK and other future titles like Echoes of Wisdom. Nevertheless, not all of BOTW’s contributions have been beneficial; several aspects warrant reevaluation to ensure that future games continue to innovate without being hindered by previous limitations.
Epona Deserves A Core Role in Future Zelda Titles
The Iconic Steed Should Not Be Limited to Amiibo Exclusivity
As a cherished character for longtime fans, Epona deserves a permanent spot in the Zelda universe rather than being treated as a form of downloadable content. The current method of incorporating Epona into the franchise frustrates seasoned players and significantly reduces the chances for newcomers to form a connection with her, diminishing her relevance in potential future games.
Classic Zelda Elements Should Not Be Restricted by Amiibo
Restricting Access Undermines Nostalgic Appeal
Since TOTK is a direct continuation of BOTW, making Epona available as part of the main gameplay would devalue the need for Amiibo in BOTW. Yet, this approach leaves countless players unable to experience Epona in either game. This troubling trend raises concerns for the future; for instance, while Echoes of Wisdom eliminates Epona altogether, it still offers exclusive outfits for Zelda which are only accessible via Amiibo. One can easily envision a future Zelda title where Epona or other nostalgic elements disappear behind similar paywalls.
An additional concern is the treatment of Wolf Link, introduced in BOTW as a temporary companion. Given his unconventional appearance, it feels more fitting as an optional bonus rather than a foundational element of the game.
While nostalgia can play a powerful role in enhancing the experience of a beloved franchise like The Legend of Zelda, monetizing this nostalgia can create negative impressions for dedicated fans. It would be unreasonable for an upcoming title to rely heavily on Amiibo for essential gameplay mechanics. However, an increased focus on Amiibo could severely impact the core gaming experience. For instance, one could imagine a Zelda game that incorporates musical elements where fast-travel songs are linked to Amiibo, similar to the approach in Skyward Sword HD.
Amiibo serve as delightful collectibles that provide a variety of digital bonuses for related games. Nevertheless, their current implementation in The Legend of Zelda not only risks locking away vital features but also complicates accessibility to fan-favorite aspects like Epona. The idea of Epona being permanently tied to Amiibo exclusives would be a disappointment to many fans. Moving forward, it would greatly benefit the franchise if Epona were made accessible without requiring any additional purchases.
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