Should I Play Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom First?
The Legend of Zelda series has been a beloved franchise for decades, and the latest installment, Tears of the Kingdom, has generated immense excitement among fans. However, for new players, it can be daunting to decide where to start. Should you begin with the classic Breath of the Wild or dive straight into the new Tears of the Kingdom? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.
The Basics
Before we dive into the details, let’s quickly summarize the two games:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017): An open-world adventure that takes place in a post-apocalyptic Hyrule, where you play as Link, tasked with defeating Calamity Ganon and saving the world.
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023): A sequel to Breath of the Wild, set in the same world, where you continue Link’s journey to uncover the secrets of Hyrule and defeat the forces of evil.
Why Play Breath of the Wild First?
While Tears of the Kingdom is designed to be accessible to new players, playing Breath of the Wild first can provide a richer experience. Here are some reasons why:
- Better understanding of the world: Breath of the Wild sets the stage for the world of Hyrule, introducing you to its lore, characters, and mechanics. This foundation will help you appreciate the new story and characters in Tears of the Kingdom.
- Familiarity with the controls: The gameplay mechanics in Breath of the Wild are more complex than in Tears of the Kingdom. Playing the first game will help you get accustomed to the controls, making it easier to transition to the sequel.
- Emotional investment: By playing Breath of the Wild first, you’ll have a deeper emotional connection to the characters and story, making the events of Tears of the Kingdom more impactful.
Why Play Tears of the Kingdom First?
On the other hand, playing Tears of the Kingdom first can also be a great option:
- Fresh start: Tears of the Kingdom offers a new story, characters, and setting, providing a fresh start for new players. You won’t need to worry about the complexities of Breath of the Wild’s world or mechanics.
- Improved graphics and gameplay: Tears of the Kingdom features improved graphics, new mechanics, and a more streamlined experience compared to Breath of the Wild.
- Less commitment: If you’re short on time or prefer a more condensed experience, Tears of the Kingdom is a more self-contained game, with a shorter playtime compared to Breath of the Wild.
The Verdict
Ultimately, the decision to play Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom first depends on your personal preferences and gaming experience. If you’re new to the series, playing Breath of the Wild first can provide a richer experience, but if you’re short on time or prefer a more modern take on the series, Tears of the Kingdom is a great option.
Tips for New Players
Here are some tips for new players to consider:
- Start with Breath of the Wild: If you’re new to the series, playing Breath of the Wild first can provide a better understanding of the world and mechanics.
- Take your time: Both games are designed to be played at your own pace, so take your time to explore the world and enjoy the story.
- Use online resources: If you’re stuck or need help, there are many online resources available, including walkthroughs, guides, and tutorials.
Conclusion
The Legend of Zelda series is a beloved franchise, and both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are excellent games. Whether you play Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom first, you’re in for a treat. By understanding the pros and cons of each option, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the series to its fullest.