Hyrule Warriors: Age Of Imprisonment Review – Link To The Past
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment stands as a high point for the spin-off series. While a few issues hold it back, the game expands on its chaotic hack-and-slash combat with new layers of depth and variety.
Written by Richard Wakeling on November 4, 2025, this review highlights how the game continues the legacy of blending Omega Force's trademark musou gameplay with the rich world of The Legend of Zelda.
A Fusion Of Two Worlds
Over the years, the Dynasty Warriors franchise has inspired countless spin-offs, spanning anime titles like Gundam, Berserk, and One Piece, as well as collaborations with popular game series such as Persona and Fire Emblem.
Among these, 2014’s Hyrule Warriors and its sequel, Age of Calamity, were particularly well-received for merging frenetic action with the hallmarks of Zelda—its iconic characters, stunning settings, and memorable enemies.
Building On The Foundation
In Age of Imprisonment, the bond between the two series feels tighter than ever. Its world and storytelling share so many elements with the Zelda franchise that it often plays more like a new entry in that saga than a simple spin-off.
Though not flawless, the game refines the formula in meaningful ways, offering improved combat variety, deeper progression systems, and a more cohesive narrative experience.
“The game’s story is the most obvious aspect where the two series are aligned.”
Verdict
Age of Imprisonment doesn’t reinvent the formula, but it polishes the concept enough to satisfy both musou veterans and Zelda fans seeking fast-paced, large-scale battles.
Author’s summary: A thoughtful evolution of Hyrule Warriors that tightens its bond with Zelda, enriching the gameplay experience with style, scope, and narrative depth.