Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment Review
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment successfully adapts the mechanics from Tears of the Kingdom, offering engaging gameplay and a lively cast. Nintendo and Koei Tecmo continue their strong collaboration, refining the Musou formula into something more distinctive and rewarding for fans.
Rather than merely repurposing beloved characters for hack-and-slash action, Koei Tecmo has evolved the format by integrating elements true to each franchise’s spirit. This approach shines again here, much like in Age of Calamity and Fire Emblem Warriors: Three Hopes.
Using the capabilities of the Switch 2, the developers deliver smoother performance and dynamic visuals. The result is a spinoff that stands proudly alongside Tears of the Kingdom, expanding its world while maintaining continuity.
Story and Setting
Building on the events of Tears of the Kingdom, the game explores previously hinted but unexplored moments. Players witness the intense conflict between Rauru, the original King of Hyrule, and Ganondorf, the Gerudo chieftain who becomes the Demon King.
“If you played Tears of the Kingdom through, you probably know how this turns out, but Age of Imprisonment still tells us the in-depth story that saw Zelda strive to reunite with Link in the future.”
The focus on these side characters and forgotten histories enriches the legend of Hyrule, bringing new emotional depth to familiar faces and events.
Verdict
Age of Imprisonment blends action, lore, and innovation into a satisfying experience that both honors its roots and pushes the series forward.
Author’s summary: A sharp, story-rich spinoff that deepens Hyrule’s mythos through refined gameplay and strong character storytelling.