Nintendo Unveils New Zelda Game for Switch 2, Release Set for Early 2025

In a surprise announcement during today’s Nintendo Direct presentation, Nintendo confirmed that a brand-new entry in The Legend of Zelda franchise is in development, and it’s coming exclusively to the upcoming Switch 2 in early 2025. The news marks one of the first major software reveals for the next-generation console, which is expected to be formally announced later this year.

Titled *The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past*, the new game is a direct follow-up to 2023’s *Tears of the Kingdom* and sees Link once again exploring a vastly reimagined Hyrule with new mechanics that take full advantage of the Switch 2’s advanced hardware. While Nintendo reserved most story details, the teaser trailer hinted at darker thematic elements, new underground regions, and what appears to be a shattered Master Sword being reforged with mysterious ancient energy.

Perhaps the most surprising element? Princess Zelda will be a playable character for the first time in a mainline title. Brief scenes in the trailer showed Zelda wielding a magical tome and navigating puzzle-laden ruins separate from Link. According to series producer Eiji Aonuma, the decision was made to “focus on the enduring bond between the two heroes” and allow players to experience the story from both perspectives. Fans have been asking for a playable Zelda for years, and it looks like Nintendo is finally delivering.

Gameplay enhancements include dynamic weather that affects traversal and combat, seamless transitions between surface and subterranean zones, and a revamped crafting system that ties directly into dungeon exploration. Nintendo also announced a Collector’s Edition, which will come with an art book, a steelbook case, and a replica of the reforged Master Sword.

Though fans were hoping for a late 2024 release to coincide with the rumored Switch 2 launch, Nintendo said it is committed to ensuring the experience is polished and complete before release. “We want to honor the 40-year legacy of this franchise. Echoes of the Past is a love letter to Zelda fans, old and new,” Aonuma stated.

With more information promised at a special showcase this fall, excitement is already building for what could be the Switch 2’s first killer app.