Is Tears of the Kingdom an RPG?

Is Tears of the Kingdom an RPG?

The Legend of Zelda series has always been a topic of debate among gamers when it comes to classification. Many argue that it is an action-adventure game with RPG elements, while others believe it is a traditional role-playing game. The recent announcement of Tears of the Kingdom has sparked renewed discussions about the game’s genre. In this article, we will explore the definition of RPG and analyze Tears of the Kingdom to determine if it can be considered a role-playing game.

Definition of RPG

A Role-Playing Game (RPG) is a type of video game where the player assumes the role of a character and interacts with the game world through various activities such as combat, puzzle-solving, and exploration. The game typically has a storyline with a main quest, side quests, and characters with unique abilities and attributes.

Tears of the Kingdom: The Game

Tears of the Kingdom is an upcoming open-world action-adventure game developed by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch console. The game is the sequel to the 2017 game Breath of the Wild and continues the story of Link, the protagonist. The game promises to introduce new gameplay mechanics, characters, and regions to explore.

RPG Elements in Tears of the Kingdom

While Tears of the Kingdom may not fit the traditional definition of an RPG, it does possess many elements that are typically found in the genre. Here are some of the RPG elements present in the game:

• EXP System: Tears of the Kingdom has an experience points system, which allows players to level up and improve their character’s abilities and attributes.

• Character Progression: The game has a character progression system, where players can upgrade their equipment, abilities, and skills as they progress through the story.

• Open-world Exploration: Tears of the Kingdom has a vast open-world environment that allows players to explore, discover new locations, and interact with non-playable characters (NPCs).

• Puzzles and Challenges: The game includes various puzzles and challenges that require players to use their problem-solving skills and think creatively.

• Multiple Endings: The game may have multiple endings depending on the player’s choices and actions throughout the story.

• Crafting System: Tears of the Kingdom has a crafting system that allows players to create and upgrade equipment, potions, and other items.

• Character Customization: Players can customize their character’s appearance and abilities, including clothing, accessories, and skill trees.

• Story-driven Quests: The game has a main quest with side quests and character-specific quests that advance the story and offer additional challenges and rewards.

Why Tears of the Kingdom is Not a Traditional RPG

Despite possessing many RPG elements, Tears of the Kingdom does not fit the traditional definition of an RPG. Here are some reasons why:

• Real-time Combat: Tears of the Kingdom has real-time combat, where players control Link’s actions and movements directly, rather than issuing commands like in a traditional RPG.

• No Character Selection: Players cannot choose from different character classes or select a party of characters like in traditional RPGs.

• Limited Character Development: While the game has a character progression system, it is not as extensive as in traditional RPGs, where players can choose their character’s attributes, skills, and abilities.

Conclusion

Tears of the Kingdom is a game that defies categorization as a traditional RPG, but it does possess many elements that are characteristic of the genre. The game’s unique blend of action-adventure gameplay and RPG elements makes it a fresh and exciting addition to the Zelda series. Whether or not it can be considered an RPG, Tears of the Kingdom is sure to offer an engaging and immersive gaming experience for players.