The next installment in the Legend of Zelda series should continue to build upon the foundational “four pillars” established by Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, which have reshaped the franchise’s identity. A primary pillar is the expansive open world, celebrated for its rewarding exploration and stunning visuals. This design philosophy champions player autonomy, steering away from restrictive linearity and excessive on-screen markers. Breath of the Wild‘s groundbreaking approach to its open world, which allowed players to navigate organically using environmental cues, profoundly influenced the gaming landscape, even inspiring titles like Elden Ring, and remains crucial for the series’ ongoing evolution.
Equally vital is the re-emphasis on classic dungeon design and innovative problem-solving, elements that Tears of the Kingdom successfully reintroduced after Breath of the Wild‘s departure from traditional dungeons. The ability to find multiple solutions to puzzles, exemplified by Tears of the Kingdom‘s Ultrahand, grants players unprecedented sandbox freedom, making their progression feel more personal and impactful. The article asserts that integrating these core elements—open worlds, engaging exploration, player freedom, and inventive problem-solving within dungeons—is paramount for the series’ future, solidifying the new identity that has made modern Zelda games so revolutionary.
