Zelda on Switch 2 Can’t Repeat One of Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom’s Best Immersion Tricks

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In the latest iterations of the Zelda series, the games have impressively achieved a high level of immersion by seamlessly integrating in-game gadgets with actual gaming devices. For instance, the Sheikah Slate used by Link in Breath of the Wild for tasks such as photography, map navigation, and activating shrines bore a striking resemblance to a Wii U GamePad. Similarly, the upgraded Purah Pad in Tears of the Kingdom mirrors the design of a Nintendo Switch, making players feel as though they and Link are using the same technology, thereby establishing an enjoyable link between our world and Hyrule.

One captivating aspect of the latest Zelda game lies in the introduction of a novel in-game gadget that embodies the essence of each period and hardware platform. However, this particular innovation is unlikely to recur in a third instance, as the rumored Switch 2 seems strikingly similar to its predecessor. If Nintendo were to introduce a new tablet for the Switch 2, it might feel like a repetitive rehash of the Purah Pad, given that there’s no fresh console design to draw inspiration from. Nevertheless, there are creative avenues to bring something original by leveraging the unique characteristics of the upcoming console.

Switch 2 Features That Can Be Incorporated Into the Next In-Game Tablet

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For the Switch 2, one significant enhancement is the addition of mouse control support when the Joy-Cons are detached. This feature can be seamlessly incorporated into Link’s next main device, as the in-game tablet could have removable sides that behave like magical wands or control sticks. With these, Link could zoom in on the terrain of Hyrule, move items in his inventory around, or draw a route on a map for automatic waypoint setting.

An significant enhancement in Switch 2 is its advanced microphone, which could be utilized in the next tablet version with a voice-activated user interface. Instead of manually navigating menus, players could use voice commands such as “Open map,” “Mark location,” “Take picture,” or “Activate shrine.” This not only aligns thematically but also mechanically, considering that the Zelda series often incorporates magical voice and sound elements, like the howling in Twilight Princess and instrument commands in Ocarina of Time. Incorporating voice input in a Zelda game wouldn’t seem like a novelty; it would feel like casting spells.

The Tools Have Always Tied Into In-Game Lore

In the Zelda series of games, the creators have skillfully woven these tools into the game’s lore. The Sheikah Slate was initially developed, and then Purah created an advanced version called the Purah Pad based on it, which is why they share a resemblance. In the game “Tears of the Kingdom”, Zelda sends the Pad back in time where it is guarded for centuries by a construct until it’s passed on to Link again. This backstory explains its evolution. Therefore, if Nintendo were to introduce a slightly altered tablet in the next game without a convincing explanation, it might seem illogical and disrupt the immersive narrative they’ve established. Players anticipate more than just upgraded features; they seek reasons for why these tools are integral to the game world as well.

Switch 2 Doesn’t Have to be Incorporated as Another Tablet

Every significant game in the Zelda series has incorporated a defining mechanic that embodies the essence of its respective console, yet these mechanics aren’t confined to tablets alone. For instance, the motion controls in Skyward Sword transformed swordplay into an immersive real-time precision system. In Phantom Hourglass on the DS, players could draw a path for the boomerang, trace symbols to open doors, and charge hammer attacks by holding the stylus. Similarly, Spirit Tracks utilized the microphone to play a spirit flute.

Transforming the mouse control in version 2 opens up opportunities for a variety of innovative tool designs that seem custom-made for the hardware. One intriguing concept is a levitating dagger, reminiscent of Yondu’s arrow from the Guardians of the Galaxy films, which can be maneuvered in real-time using Joy-Con pointer input. This magical dagger could cut through enemies or be used to solve puzzles, such as activating switches in a particular sequence or disabling traps remotely. New puzzle shrines might challenge players to draw ancient glyphs or magic seals with precision using the Joy-Con as a stylus substitute. Even ranged combat could undergo significant changes. A new bow with a scope could provide pinpoint accuracy, allowing for sniper-like precision with the Joy-Con. These tools would invigorate Zelda’s fundamental mechanics and underscore the series’ strengths: integrating novel hardware features with engaging, purposeful gameplay.

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2025-07-04 20:44