The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Enhanced for Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 has launched, and I’m diving back into Hyrule with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This Nintendo Switch 2 Edition boasts sharper visuals, quicker load times, and integration with the Zelda Notes service through the Nintendo Switch App on mobile devices. While the upgrades are subtle, they elevate this iconic adventure, making it the definitive way to experience one of Nintendo’s greatest triumphs.

Here’s what IGN said in our original review of Breath of the Wild:

Breath of the Wild remains a perfect 10. It was a landmark eight years ago, and its influence endures, shaping titles like Ghost of Tsushima, Halo Infinite, and Elden Ring. Its innovative approach to open-world exploration continues to inspire developers and captivate players.

This isn’t a full re-review but a look at my initial hours with the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

Breath of the Wild at Its Finest

Breath of the Wild pushed the original Switch to its limits, and the Wii U version was even rougher. The Switch 2 Edition finally delivers the experience as intended, running at 4K docked and 1080p handheld, both crisp and vibrant. HDR support makes Hyrule’s landscapes, from blood moons to distant shrines, visually stunning.

The sharper resolution highlights some dated textures, like rocks or grass, but character models shine, and the 60fps framerate ensures smooth gameplay, a vast improvement over the original.

Korok Forest Now Runs Flawlessly

I tested the Switch 2 Edition in Korok Forest, a notorious performance bottleneck on the original Switch. The new version handles it effortlessly, maintaining a steady 60fps whether I’m gliding through Hebra Mountains or battling moblins in Hyrule Field. Stability is rock-solid.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Screenshots

From shield-surfing to combat, the Switch 2 Edition maintains a consistent 60fps across Hyrule, delivering a seamless experience.

Gameplay Unchanged, for Better or Worse

The Switch 2 Edition looks and loads better, but the core experience is untouched. Fans of the open-world freedom, shrine hunts, and sandbox style will feel right at home. However, those frustrated by weapon durability or preferring guided open-worlds like Assassin’s Creed may still find it unappealing.

The core adventure remains intact, with no noticeable tweaks in my early hours. If Breath of the Wild wasn’t your style, this polished version won’t change your mind.

Faster Load Times Transform Exploration

Load times in the Switch 2 Edition are drastically reduced, making fast travel and map traversal smoother. While not a headline feature, this improvement is a game-changer for a title that demands constant movement across Hyrule, minimizing downtime and keeping you immersed.

New Content Lives on Your Phone

The Switch 2 Edition introduces new features via the Nintendo Switch App’s Zelda Notes. Voice directions help locate shrines or Korok seeds, adjusting dynamically during fast travel. A toggle prevents spoilers for newcomers. Additionally, 125 audio logs from Princess Zelda offer lore snippets, triggered by a proximity sensor in the app. These feel supplementary, appealing mainly to completionists.

The app also tracks stats, shares items via QR codes, and offers daily bonuses like heart refills or weapon repairs. While useful, these features would feel more seamless integrated into the game itself rather than requiring a separate device.

Second Save File Adds Replay Value

I planned to briefly revisit my old save but found myself hooked for a full replay. The addition of a second save slot is a boon, letting me start fresh without overwriting my original progress. The $10 upgrade fee feels justified for the enhanced visuals and performance.

Tristan's Favourite Zelda Games

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The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is the ultimate way to experience this masterpiece. Newcomers should start here, while veterans will find the performance upgrades worth the cost. Stay tuned to IGN for more Nintendo Switch 2 launch coverage.