There is a fundamental difference between the Wii U and the Nintendo Switch this makes the previous console superior and it all comes down to the game library. It’s hard to deny how the Switch managed to outperform the Wii U, thanks in large part to the console’s innovative hybrid gameplay style and excellent original lineup. Despite that, part of the dedication and support that the Switch gave to one of Nintendo’s franchises leaves a lot to be desired. This franchise is The Legend of Zelda.
With the enormous success of Zelda titles released on Switch, such as Breath of Nature and Tears of the Kingdomit would be easy to assume that the console has done a lot to continue to build the franchise’s popularity. However, with the influx of new fans, these entries were introduced, Nintendo wasted an opportunity with the Switch to truly showcase everything the Zelda series has to offer. Furthermore, the Switch’s less successful predecessor, the Wii U, did a much better job of serving the series, revealing some major pitfalls that Nintendo’s next console should avoid.
The Wii U was an unparalleled machine for Zelda games
The console was home to almost every Zelda title
Wii U support for Zelda the series far exceeded that of the Switch simply due to the former’s dedication to the franchise’s legacy. Although the original Wii U games were limited to one main entry and one spinoff Nintendo has made a clear effort to make almost all Zelda accessible entrancewhether through backwards compatibility, virtual console or even remasters. Including original releases, the Wii U’s Zelda catalog included:
- The Legend of Zelda
- Zelda II: Link’s Adventure
- The Legend of Zelda: a link with the past
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
- The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker HD
- The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
- The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii version or HD remaster)
- Link’s Beast Training
- The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
- The Legend of Zelda: Spiritual Trails
- The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
- Hyrule Warriors
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Almost all Zelda the game released before the launch of the Wii U was made available on the console. This was a major selling point for a console that was struggling with its own original lineup. By allowing fans old and new to experience everything the Zelda series has to offer in one place, showed a recognition of the importance of franchising and its impact on the industry. Until the closure of the Wii U eShop in 2023, the console was a showcase for what the Zelda series means to Nintendo, an attitude that was not shared by its successor.
Nintendo Switch 2 should continue Zelda’s legacy
Zelda’s story must always be preserved
Despite the undeniable acclaim and impact of the Switch entries themselves, the console’s support for Zelda The franchise’s legacy has been lackluster. While it boasts classics from the NES era to the N64 era thanks to the Nintendo Switch Online service, the console appears to have a blatant disregard for entries from the GameCube and DS eras. The decision to omit these eras is perplexing when they are home to some of the Zelda best-rated entries in the franchiseincluding Wind Alarm Clock and Twilight Princessboth receiving full remasters on Wii U.
When the Switch 2 console launches, this is essential Zeldahistory is not left behind. As much as the series must continue to move forward, there must be recognition of what came before and continue to allow the opportunity for these cherished experiences to be shared among the growing number of players being introduced to the game. Zelda franchise. As one of Nintendoof the most popular and acclaimed franchises, a greater effort should be made to give the Zelda The series’ legacy the love and appreciation it deserves.