Nintendo’s newest addition to the critically acclaimed The Legend of Zelda series “Breath of the Wild” is a breathtaking open world adventure with an amazing story and graphics. Adding new mechanics, such as the sheikah slate and a new story, gives a breath of fresh air for long time fans. “Breath of the Wild” introduces many new aspects and elements to the game that takes the series to new heights.

What many people looked forward to is the new mechanics introduced into this addition of the “Zelda” franchise. New mechanics such as the new runes like magnesis, which is one of six runes allow the player to lift metallic objects regardless of weight. Using this tool can be crucial to solving puzzles or surprising the enemy with a metal box to the head. Other tools, such as the stasis rune or cryonis rune, allow the user to solve a large variety of puzzles within the game. Though the runes add a new element to the game, using the tools usually cause the game to drop in frames and lag quite a bit. Another aspect in the game is the combat system, which changed from swinging a Wii remote to pressing Y on the controller to attack. Many fans believe this to be way better than swinging a Wii remote which brought many problems such as connection issues. Other fans believe that this takes away from the interactive experience and makes the combat feel less intense and too simple. The many flaws may hinder the game, but the well written story and beautiful scenery makes the game all the better.

One aspect many fans look forward to is the new story that adds on to the old story reused in many of the previous titles. The story goes that an ancient evil calamity ganon has been revived after 10,000 years and destroyed the Kingdom of Hyrule. After being fatally injured, the revived main character, Link, has been tasked to save Hyrule and defeat ganon with the divine beast which were introduced in this game. The story has been changed from the typical save the princess and kill the evil overlord, to a new story of saving a kingdom from an ancient evil. Though many were upset about the change, others felt that it gave the story a great add on that will give players a lasting memory of their adventure.

“The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” is fantastic game that gives new and old players a new adventure with stunning visuals and an amazing story. Though flaws such as the simplified combat system hinders the experience, but the excellent use of tools and new mechanics gives the game a new experience. In conclusion, the game is one of the best installations to the “Zelda” franchise, with new visuals and gameplay the game will surely take your breath away.

Graphics by KAITLYN LIAO