The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is one of the most highly anticipated games of recent years, and fans were finally treated to an extended gameplay trailer introduced by none other than series producer Eiji Aonuma. Here are all the new details and features that were revealed.
New Areas – Sky Islands
One of the most exciting new areas in the game is the Sky Islands, high-altitude islands that provide a new level of gameplay and exploration, offering fans a breathtaking view of the game’s vast world. These islands are similar to Hyrule, but they’re elevated, giving players a new perspective on the game.
More Signs Of The Zonai
Fans have speculated for months that the Zonai, a mysterious civilization mentioned in previous Zelda games, may play a significant role in the story. The introduction of Constructs, robotic enemies that resemble Guardians but are smaller and less intimidating, dropping Zonai Charges, suggests a connection to the Zonai.
Weapon Degradation Returns
The trailer confirmed that weapon degradation is back in the game, which may divide fans. While some may appreciate the added challenge, others may find it frustrating.
Tears of the Kingdom-Themed Switch OLED
Aside from gameplay details, the trailer also gave fans a first official look at the Tears of the Kingdom-themed Switch OLED, Pro Controller, and Carrying Case, set to release over the coming months.
New Enemies – Constructs
In addition to the new Sky Islands, the trailer introduced Constructs, brand-new enemies that resemble Guardians, but smaller and less intimidating.
Recall (New Ability)
Recall is a new ability that lets players rewind an object’s movements, allowing them to ride falling rocks back up to the Sky Islands. This ability may have potential in combat situations as well, allowing players to use falling debris as a weapon.
New Abilities – Fuse, Ultrahand, Ascend
The trailer also introduced several new abilities that players can use to solve puzzles creatively or build new vehicles. Fuse allows players to combine objects to create new weapons or solve puzzles, Ultrahand lets players stick materials together to build vehicles, and Ascend lets players leap through overhead surfaces to appear on the level above.
Sky Diving
Fans can also look forward to the return of paragliding mechanics from Breath of the Wild, allowing players to jump off the Sky Islands and either free fall or dive straight down to get to the ground faster.
Map Coordinates
One of the minor details that stood out in the trailer was the introduction of map coordinates. Players will no longer have to describe locations in Hyrule using vague landmarks as the map now features precise longitude, latitude, and altitude coordinates.
Yellow Trees
The Sky Islands are also home to yellow trees, a new addition to the game. While it’s unclear what purpose these trees serve, they seem to be unique to the Sky Islands.
Conclusion
Overall, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom promises to be an exciting new addition to the franchise, with new enemies, abilities, and gameplay mechanics that will challenge and delight fans. While weapon degradation may not be to everyone’s liking, the Sky Islands, Zonai connection, and new abilities more than makeup for it. Fans can look forward to exploring the vast world of Hyrule in this highly anticipated game.
