Does “Tears of the Kingdom” happen before “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild”? This is a question that has been on the minds of many fans of the beloved video game series. The answer, however, is not as straightforward as one might think. While “Tears of the Kingdom” is indeed a prequel to “Breath of the Wild,” the narrative and gameplay elements in “Tears of the Kingdom” are designed to complement and expand upon the original game, rather than simply retelling the same story.
The “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” was released in 2017 and quickly became a critical and commercial success. The game, known for its open-world design, innovative gameplay mechanics, and stunning visuals, introduced players to the vast and beautiful world of Hyrule. The story follows Link, the hero of the series, as he awakens from a long slumber to find Hyrule in ruins, thanks to the actions of Ganon, the game’s main antagonist.
Fast forward to 2023, and “Tears of the Kingdom” is set to continue the story of Link and his quest to restore peace to Hyrule. The prequel is set several years before “Breath of the Wild,” and it focuses on Link’s early adventures and his training to become a hero. While the game does not retell the entire story of “Breath of the Wild,” it does provide a deeper understanding of Link’s background and the events that led to the game’s iconic opening.
One of the most significant aspects of “Tears of the Kingdom” is its emphasis on exploration and discovery. Players will be able to traverse a vast and diverse world, uncovering secrets and meeting new characters along the way. The game also introduces new mechanics and abilities for Link, such as the ability to control the elements and manipulate the environment to solve puzzles and overcome obstacles.
Another interesting aspect of “Tears of the Kingdom” is its approach to storytelling. While the game does not follow the same linear narrative as “Breath of the Wild,” it does provide a more interconnected experience. Players will be able to revisit familiar locations from “Breath of the Wild” and discover new areas that were previously inaccessible. This interconnectedness allows for a more immersive experience, as players can piece together the story of Hyrule’s past and future.
In conclusion, “Tears of the Kingdom” does happen before “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild,” but it is not a simple retelling of the original game’s story. Instead, it serves as a prequel that expands upon the world and characters introduced in “Breath of the Wild,” providing players with a rich and immersive experience that is both familiar and new. With its emphasis on exploration, discovery, and interconnected storytelling, “Tears of the Kingdom” is poised to be another masterpiece in the Zelda series.
