The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Enhanced for Nintendo Switch 2

The Nintendo Switch 2 is here, and I’m diving back into Hyrule with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. This Nintendo Switch 2 Edition boasts upgraded visuals, quicker load times, and integration with the Zelda Notes feature through the Nintendo Switch App on your phone. While the enhancements are subtle, they elevate this iconic adventure, making it the definitive way to experience one of Nintendo’s greatest triumphs.

Before diving into the updates, here’s what IGN said in our original review:

Breath of the Wild remains a perfect 10. It was a masterpiece eight years ago, it’s a masterpiece now, and it will likely stay that way forever. Its influence is undeniable, inspiring titles like Ghost of Tsushima, Halo Infinite, and Elden Ring with its innovative approach to open-world exploration and emergent gameplay. Its legacy will shape game design for years to come.

This isn’t a full re-review but rather initial impressions from my first few hours revisiting Hyrule in the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition.

Breath of the Wild at Its Finest

A groundbreaking title, Breath of the Wild pushed the original Switch to its limits, and the Wii U version was even tougher to play. The Switch 2 edition delivers the experience as it was meant to be. It runs at 4K when docked and 1080p in handheld mode, both as crisp as a Lynel’s blade. HDR support makes Hyrule’s landscapes pop, especially under a blood moon or near a glowing shrine.

However, the sharper resolution highlights the simplicity of textures like rocks and logs up close, and grass edges remain jagged. Still, character models shine, and the game runs smoother than ever at a steady 60fps, a vast improvement over the original.

Korok Forest Now Runs Flawlessly

My first stop was Korok Forest to test the improved framerate. On the original Switch, this area caused stuttering, but on the Switch 2, it flows as smoothly as a Zora’s swim.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Screenshots

From shield-surfing down Hebra Mountains to battling moblins in Hyrule Field, the 60fps framerate holds steady across the board. The Switch 2 version is as reliable as a trusty steed in Hyrule’s stables.

Weapons Still Break, but the Experience Holds Strong

The Switch 2 edition looks and loads to 2025 standards, but the core gameplay remains unchanged. If you loved the sandbox freedom, shrine hunts, and open-ended exploration, this is a dream. But if weapon degradation or the lack of guided progression frustrated you, this version won’t sway you.

The essence of Breath of the Wild is untouched. If it wasn’t your style before, this enhanced version, while visually stunning, won’t change your mind.

Faster Load Times Transform the Experience

The Switch 2 edition slashes load times significantly. While not the flashiest upgrade, it’s a game-changer for a title that involves frequent fast travel across Hyrule’s vast map. Shrine-hopping and quest-running now feel seamless, with loading screens so brief you’ll barely notice them.

New Content Lives on Your Phone

This edition introduces new features accessible via the Nintendo Switch App. The Zelda Notes suite offers voice-guided navigation for shrines, enemies, and Korok seeds, adjusting dynamically during fast travel. A toggle hides map spoilers for newcomers.

Additionally, 125 audio logs from Princess Zelda are scattered across Hyrule, triggered by a proximity sensor in the app. These snippets, like tales of Lurelin’s hospitality or Hateno’s mayor, are collectibles for completionists but feel skippable. Other features include stat tracking, QR code item sharing, and a daily bonus wheel for rewards like heart refills or weapon repairs. While useful, these additions would feel more natural integrated into the game itself rather than requiring a phone.

Dual Save Files Add Flexibility

I planned to upgrade my original copy for $10 (or $20 AUD) for a quick revisit, but the enhancements pulled me back for a full replay. The addition of a second save file is a blessing, letting me start fresh without overwriting my original 2017 save.

Tristan's Favourite Zelda Games

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In summary, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is the ultimate way to experience this timeless classic. For newcomers, it’s the perfect entry point; for veterans, the performance boosts justify the upgrade. Stay tuned to IGN for more Nintendo Switch 2 launch coverage.