Why It’s Time to Revive The Legend of Zelda Spin-Offs on the Switch 2

As we look ahead to the release of the Nintendo Switch 2, a big question mark hangs over how Nintendo plans to wield its beloved franchises like The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario. If history is any guide, we might see Nintendo introduce the next-gen console with some powerhouse exclusives. Remember how the original Nintendo Switch made its grand entrance alongside Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey?

For fans of Nintendo, especially those itching for the next adventure in The Legend of Zelda series following Tears of the Kingdom, this anticipation is palpable. Nintendo’s signaling a departure from the BOTW formula, preparing to take the series in a fresh and intriguing direction. Even though this pivot will naturally attract plenty of attention, it doesn’t have to mean that Zelda focuses solely on its flagship releases. The series has a robust legacy of spin-offs, like Hyrule Warriors and Cadence of Hyrule, that have been both innovative and well-received. With the new console ushering in a post-BOTW era, it’s the perfect moment to let Zelda explore new horizons once more.

The contrast between Zelda and Super Mario in terms of spin-offs is quite stark. While we might not expect to see a “Zelda Cart” or “Zelda Strikers,” the potential for creative spin-offs within the Zelda universe is significant. Imagine a game akin to Super Mario RPG but situated firmly in the world of Zelda with its characters and lore—it could be something truly special.

Exploring this multi-release strategy offers numerous benefits, chief among them being a wider variety of Zelda experiences. Take the Hyrule Warriors series, for example, which provides a fast-paced, battle-centric adventure that’s unmistakably Zelda. Cadence of Hyrule takes a rhythmic twist on the traditional experience, broadening the franchise’s appeal. And even simpler spinoffs like Link’s Crossbow Training have effectively utilized their respective hardware while delivering enjoyable gameplay.

While the mainline Zelda titles will forever remain the heart of the series, acting as its definitive experience, spin-offs allow developers to let loose creatively. These alternative titles don’t have to adhere to the familiar pattern of dungeons and item-based puzzles and instead offer a chance to experiment within the franchise’s rich tapestry.

Speculating about what Zelda spin-offs on the Nintendo Switch 2 might look like opens up exciting possibilities. If the rumors are true and the new Joy-Cons include advanced features reminiscent of the old Wiimotes, this could give rise to a new type of Zelda game, perhaps something strategic like an RTS. Such innovations could fully utilize the console’s capabilities, offering fresh ways to experience the Zelda universe.

Admittedly, these are just musings. Ultimately, the specific paths Nintendo might take with Zelda spin-offs are secondary to its overarching release strategy. Abandoning spin-offs entirely, as has seemed the case in recent years, would not only limit Nintendo’s creative output and financial potential but also deny gamers the chance to enjoy what could be some truly remarkable Zelda adventures beyond the main series.