The Legend of Zelda Series’ Future Hangs on Thread as Nintendo Declares No More Concern for Older Titles

“The Legend of Zelda” is one such gaming series that fills all gamers’ hearts with memories of exciting adventures and rich storytelling. The 37-year reigning franchise has been a staple for gaming enthusiasts around the world. But will the upcoming Zelda titles provide the same old classic flavor that fans have been enjoying throughout all these years?

Well, if reports are to be believed, Eiji Aonuma, producer of this iconic series, has hinted about a potential shift of the old classic Zelda formula from older titles to focus on the upcoming ones. So, what’s this all about? Let’s dive into the article and explore more details.

The Zelda series departs for an open-world gameplay

This decades-old action-adventure series has already made a significant departure from its old-school, classic linear 2D gameplay. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of Wild would be a good example of the same, which has entered into the open world segment. And the most recent installment of the series, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, has followed it. This cultural shift signifies that there is no looking back towards the linear gameplay and the open world is the new Zelda future.

With the beginning of a new era in the Zelda series, concerns have already been raised. Fans have been complaining that the Zelda series is forgetting its roots with recent installments, which all the fans initially fell in love with. Open-world exploration can be tiring after some time, and the sole emphasis on this open-world formula can backfire the decision. So, a striking balance is needed between the expansive open world and the classic Zelda 2d setting.

The Legend of Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma has his say in his interview: “It’s hard to say anything about the future. That said, thanks to earlier Zeldas, a game like Tears of the Kingdom now exists. This game was born from the ideas we had in the past. We always try to make something that offers more than previous productions. In that respect, we are not really concerned with our old games anymore. We prefer to focus on the future.”

Smaller-scale attempts trying to bring back the classic gameplay

Nintendo may have lesser concerns over older titles. But there is still some hope for the classic Zelda experience. In 2019, Nintendo collaborated with Brace Yourself Games to publish a rhythm crossover game between The Legend of Zelda and Crypt of the NecroDancer. This game was called “Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda”, which was based on the classic movement and fighting mechanics of earlier Zelda titles.

This crossover can be a shining hope for all the old-school Zelda lovers who became a fan of their simple linear gameplay. The Legend of Zelda is an iconic series that has been staying in our hearts for a long, long time. Despite its entry into modern open-world exploration, there will be no difference in an obsession with this title, but fans will surely miss the old-school 2D vibe. With the 2019 crossover, there is still some hope of old Zelda’s return, though.

Read More: “This Is Gonna Go WILD!”- Fans Go Over the Moon As the Legend of Zelda Reportedly To Get a Movie Adaptation

So what’s your opinion on this decision, Zelda fans? Will the old 2D Zelda world ever return? Don’t forget to let us know in the comment box.

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