The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD Will Send Classic Nintendo Wii Title Soaring Onto Nintendo Switch
When Eiji Aonuma, Producer, The Legend of Zelda series emerged against a dark background during the latest Nintendo Direct presentation, a lot of fans were expecting to learn more information regarding the sequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild which was first announced at E3 2019 but alas, that was not the case unfortunately. Aonuma apologized but affirmed that development was proceeding smoothly and that they should have some more information to share later this year. And while fans eagerly wait for that particular announcement, Nintendo did have some other exciting news regarding The Legend of Zelda that should be enough to satisfy the longing to return to Hyrule, while still connecting to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in an important and game changing way.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword which was originally released on Nintendo Wii back in November 2011 is making the jump to Nintendo Switch and will be fully remastered in HD with Joy-Con support. The majority of the gameplay mechanics in the Nintendo Wii version relied heavily on motion controls with the Wii Remote and Wii Motion Plus required to swing the sword while the Nunchuk Accessory provided the means to navigate and block incoming attacks with the shield. Players on Nintendo Switch Lite need not worry because this updated version of the game includes a brand new button-only control scheme that remaps those specific elements to ensure that the game can be played in whatever way the player desires without any issues. This allows for a truly customizable experience with Joy-Con controllers, Nintendo Switch Pro controllers, in handheld mode or on-the-go with Nintendo Switch Lite.
The increased processing power of the Nintendo Switch console will allow for smoother gameplay as well as more intuitive functionality with Joy-Con controllers taking the place of the Wii Remote, Wii Motion Plus, and Nunchuk peripherals. In a demonstration, Aonuma explains that players can swing the Joy-Con controller in their right hand to use the sword and raise the Joy-Con controller in their left hand for the shield; other actions can also be performed such as using a bow and arrow which will add a sense of urgency during combat. Special Edition The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD Joy-Con controllers are also being released alongside the game on July 16th, 2021 at participating retailers and each features a different motif inspired by the Master Sword and Hylian Shield. Pre-orders have not yet become available in Canada but the bundle will retail for $99.99 CAD and are likely to sell out quickly given the popularity of the series.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword takes place during the events surrounding the creation of the Master Sword itself and is the earliest story in the confusing and convoluted timeline. But with that aside, it did pave the way for several features and innovations that would eventually make their way into The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild including the Sailcloth to safely descend from high areas, a stamina gauge that depleted when climbing or running, and collecting items to upgrade equipment and gear.
Those who missed the latest Nintendo Direct on February 17th, 2021 can view the entire 50-minute presentation on the official Nintendo Direct website as well as on the official Nintendo YouTube channel.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD is scheduled to release on July 16th, 2021 exclusively for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite.
