Celebrating the Launch with a Classic: Breath of the Wild Returns on Nintendo Switch 2

The highly anticipated Nintendo Switch 2 has finally hit the shelves, and in a nostalgic twist, I chose to revisit the game that started it all—The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This special Nintendo Switch 2 Edition offers more than just a fresh coat of paint; it features significant visual enhancements, faster load times, and integration with the Zelda Notes service through the Nintendo Switch App on your mobile device. While these upgrades may seem modest in terms of new content, they significantly improve the overall experience, solidifying this version as the definitive way to enjoy one of Nintendo’s most celebrated titles.

Reflecting on the Original: What IGN Said About Breath of the Wild

Indeed, Breath of the Wild remains a perfect 10 out of 10 game. It was groundbreaking eight years ago, retains that status today, and will likely continue to influence game design for years to come. Its open-world innovation has inspired a wave of titles, from Ghost of Tsushima to Halo Infinite and Elden Ring. The game’s emphasis on experimentation and emergent gameplay has set a new standard in the industry.

First Impressions: A Return to Hyrule in Stunning 4K

This isn’t just a re-release; it’s a redefinition of how Breath of the Wild should look and perform. The Switch 2 version runs at 4K resolution when docked and 1080p in handheld mode, with both modes delivering crisp, detailed visuals. The addition of HDR support makes Hyrule’s landscapes more vibrant and immersive, especially during dramatic moments like a Blood Moon rising or the glowing blue shrines in the distance.

While the resolution boost reveals some of the textures’ simplicity—like rocks and logs that look a bit flat up close—the character models are highly detailed, and motion feels incredibly smooth thanks to a steady 60 frames per second. This upgrade truly brings the game’s world to life in a way that feels both modern and respectful of the original design.

Exploring Hyrule Without Framerate Frights

One of my main tests was revisiting the Korok Forest—the kind of area that caused the original Switch to struggle with frame drops. On the Switch 2, it runs flawlessly, with a locked 60fps that makes exploring a joy rather than a chore. Whether I was gliding down the Hebra Mountains or battling moblins in Hyrule Field, the game’s performance remained stable and silky smooth, making every moment more enjoyable than ever.

This stability marks a significant improvement over the original, which often stuttered in busy areas. Now, Breath of the Wild on Switch 2 feels more polished and responsive, elevating the adventure to new heights.

Graphics and Gameplay: A Familiar Experience with Modern Enhancements

Despite the visual upgrades, the core gameplay experience remains unchanged. If you loved the open-ended exploration, shrine hunting, and the sense of freedom in the original game, you’ll find the same engaging experience here. However, if weapon durability or the sandbox style wasn’t your cup of tea, this version won’t alter your feelings—it’s essentially the same game, just prettier and more stable.

For longtime fans, the experience is still as compelling as ever, now made more accessible through enhanced visuals and performance.

Faster Load Times Make a Difference

One of the most noticeable improvements is the dramatic reduction in loading times. While it might not seem glamorous, this upgrade greatly enhances gameplay flow, especially when fast traveling across Hyrule or returning to shrines. Instead of staring at loading screens, you’ll be back in the action almost instantly, saving time and frustration. It’s a small feature, but one that significantly enhances the overall experience, especially during long play sessions.

New Content Accessible Through Your Phone

The Switch 2 Edition introduces some new content, but you’ll need your mobile device to access it. By pairing with the Nintendo Switch App, players can utilize the Zelda Notes tools, including voice-guided directions to help locate shrines, enemies, or hidden Korok seeds. These features work seamlessly, even when switching between fast travel points.

Additionally, 125 audio logs—recordings of Princess Zelda sharing insights on locations and characters—are scattered across Hyrule. These are signaled by your phone and can be listened to at your leisure. While they add some background flavor, they’re more of a bonus for completionists than essential content. Other features include detailed stat tracking, item sharing via QR codes, and a daily prize wheel—adding some fun and utility to your adventure. However, I wish these features were integrated directly into the game rather than accessed through a separate app.

Starting Fresh: A Second Save Slot

Initially, I planned to upgrade my existing Breath of the Wild save for a modest $10 (or about $12 in USD). However, after years away from the game, I found myself eager for another adventure. Thankfully, the Switch 2 Edition allows for multiple save files, so I can start anew without overwriting my previous progress. This feature is a great addition for returning players or newcomers wanting to experience Hyrule from scratch.

Is It Worth the Upgrade?

For those who already own the original game, the performance and visual improvements alone make the $12 upgrade a worthwhile investment. If you’ve yet to play Breath of the Wild, now is the perfect time to jump in with this enhanced version, which offers the best possible experience on the Nintendo Switch 2. Stay tuned for more coverage on the console’s launch and upcoming titles as we continue exploring what this new hardware can do for Nintendo fans.

Tristan Ogilvie is a Senior Video Editor based in Sydney, bringing extensive experience in gaming journalism and reviews.