THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: TEARS OF THE KINGDOM (Final Thoughts) - Happy Console Gamer

[@MacLethal]

I'm not a gamer at all. I own a Switch that I bought for my kids, that honestly went untouched for many years. The videos and hype for this game caught my eye, so I decided to buy it and see if I could get any enjoyment out of it, fguring I'd play it twice then never touch it again. 2 months later, me and both of my kids are all 200+ hours in each, we talk about Zelda nonstop, share build ideas, glitches, techniques on fighting Gleeoks etc. It's the best video game i've ever played. I've completed 3 temples, have.3 sages, have all the skills, 45,000 rupees, 46 bombflowers, a full closet of armor and outfits etc. I've never loved a video game like this ever.

[@Thornspyre81]

Oh man that is amazing! I know this is a year old but I love hearing things like this.

[@BrandonMalone-x1b]

Hell yea dude that's amazing. I'm jealous of all the rupees and bomb flowees...I agree I'm well over 100 hours. Its absolutely the best game ever. Nothing is even close. Not even elden ring. My second favorite

[@bclinke1]

This game literally took over my life when it first came out. I could not put it down and that feeling is something that doesn’t come often.

[@williamwalkup988]

Literally took over my life when it came out... I know exactly what you mean. I had a day during the 2nd week in which I was so busy with work and family that I could not play that day. Never felt about a game before that not playing it left a hole inside me. Besides that day I've played everyday since launch. Hopefully I can put it down after I finish the game but with a game like this are you ever truly finished?

[@user-tn5vm9fr9f]

Agree! I was in great shape and working out all the time and this game def set me back a little haha

[@snesprincess]

I know what you mean, but I have little kids and a business so I'm pacing myself and can only make about 12-15 hours a week so it will take a while lols plus im making videos for my chanell as I go

[@mingyuhuang8944]

​@@williamwalkup988 This game is absolutely incredible. It's like an industrial revolution but in game form, truly groundbreaking😂

[@ChrisEbz]

Literally 🤦

[@SimianScience]

i bought breath of the wild in 2018 to help with depression. after i beat it 4 times in a row my neice and nephew came to visit. i showed the game to my neice but my nephew took a liking to it. i decided to mail it out to him and when he learned it was coming he printed out a map of hyrule. sent me a video of him holding the game cause he was so happy. then he had a zelda themed birthday party years later, hes 13 and sends me a picture of him outside a gamestop holding a copy of zelda TOTK

[@SimianScience]

@Zippy Dastrange lol. i was playing a ton of skyrim when he was a baby. hed be standing next to me with a pacifier in his mouth watching me play.

[@lukastemberger]

He was 9 when he played it? That's pretty cool. I'm a huge fan of Horizon and thinking of trying it. Is it not too "kiddie"? I like the serious themes of Horizon... And do I have to play Breath of The Wild to enjoy it or should I just go for the latest one?

[@SimianScience]

@@lukastemberger it's funny that you mention horizon because I bought the original game for him just a few days ago as a late birthday gift

[@56ty_]

@@lukastemberger wouldn’t say they’re too kiddie, not… Mario level at least. Narrative is not the focus though. Botw is very unconventional while totk is preferable for people who like more structured games

[@EmilyRose900]

​@Zippy Dastrange I think all the replies you've gotten are ignorant and stupid. Totk is so much more than these Idiots think it is and that's because they haven't played it at all.

[@woolybear]

This game is a profoundly different experience depending on so much factors. It is overwhelming at times, agreed, but for me, it's a fantastic experience. I'm roughly 60 hours in and I love TOTK as much as BOTW, which is my favorite game of all time (I'm 45, been playing games for 40 years, give or take!). It's a solid 10/10 for me.

[@halfalligator6518]

Same story with me to a T. Except I'm 40. I plan on playing Zelda until I die, so long as the quality stays good.

[@mingyuhuang8944]

​@@halfalligator6518 This game is absolutely incredible. It's like an industrial revolution but in game form, truly groundbreaking❤❤❤

[@snesprincess]

it is truely amazing

[@stryfetc1471]

Breath of the Wild overwhelmed me and I quit after a couple of weeks playing it, never came back, so I didn't get this one, but my favorite game of all time to this day is Legend of Zelda: A Link To The Past

[@joonpak]

@@stryfetc1471my favorite was a Link to the Past until BotW!

[@HerbJon]

I was 30 hours in when I unfortunately suffered a pretty severe heart attack, and now, a couple of weeks later, I'm finding it a bit hard to get into the game again. But I'm sure this will change in a bit. The game is freaking amazing!!

[@derekhart410]

Glad you're okay!

[@SoloBoardGamingKnight]

Thank God you’re okay! In a little while, you’ll get back into the game. Hope you have a speedy recovery

[@ramenpower8097]

I’m sorry to hear that, glad you’re okay

[@brett84c]

That's why you gotta invest your spirit orbs into more hearts instead of stamina lol. For real, though, sorry to hear that. Hope you have a swift recovery.

[@zg-it]

Stop eating Seed Oils!!!!

[@CommanderWiggins]

I'm glad you brought up how overwhelming this game can be at the start, I haven't seen many reviewers talk about that. I was actually anxious for a while when I started playing because I was completely overwhelmed by the amount of things you could do. I ended up doing the same thing of focusing entirely on shrines at first, which helped a ton. Here's some things I wish I had done sooner when I was starting off that might be helpful for anyone who's just starting the game (mild quest spoilers, no story spoilers): • Don't immediately run off the moment you exit the tutorial area. Stay on the main quest for just a little bit, you'll unlock the paraglider. • Follow Josha and Robbie's quests for a while, you'll get the shrine sensor as a reward among other things. • Complete the Rito Regional Phenomenon, it's a very long quest but the reward is incredibly helpful for exploration and combat. • Make heavy use of the stamps on your map screen and develop a key for it. If you can't or don't want to do something yet, put a stamp on it and now you won't forget where it is. • Use weapon fusion on monster parts and Construct parts to turn common sticks and decayed weapons into actual decent weapons.

[@spiceninja]

I think it’s incredible that this game is “too much”. People are going to be playing this 10 years from now and finding brand new stuff.

[@Lilbroda]

Let me guess, a brand new shrine?

[@shawnp4155]

I think in ten years new people to this game are going to have a hard time rationalizing playing this game and understanding what the big deal was. Breath of the Wild is already at that point. What draws someone new or old to play that game now that Tears of the Kingdom is out?

[@ShadowAraun]

@@Paganichi overrated doesn't mean bad. I'm super cold on BotW but i can acknowledge it is a good game, just not a good Zelda game. ToTK is a huge improvement, and at this point I can say it is a perfectly fine zelda game, albeit a bit lacking in some areas still it is a far cry better than BotW. It handles progression much better, especially with the depths. as you explore the depths you are expanding your battery, learning and playing with new builds, and discovering the locations of shrines on the surface. you take these tools with you to the surface for your explorations there and as you explore and find shrines you may find the locations of undiscovered light roots that might even hint at secret underworld entrances. It is an excellent cycle. The dungeons are vast improvements over the divine beasts, and while they could have benefited from some more length and depth, they were fine. The bosses were all way better than the Blights, and the final boss was excellent if you don't cheese him. on the flip side it still has many of the same issues, excessive amounts of stuff, but at least there is more to discover than just shrines and seeds, the addition of amiibo and dlc stuff from the first game in the treasure chests, the treasure maps on the sky island which lead to them, the quests rewarding them etc, are fantastic ways to keep things a bit more interesting. there are still too few enemies. there are still no dungeon unique foes, the "UI" for the dungeon abilities you get are kind of annoying, the story is pretty disappointing, there are too many items in general, and I still think durability was a mistake, but overall it is a solid game. as far as zelda games go, I'd put this at my 10th favorite with Botw as my least favorite. a bad zelda game still tends to be leagues better than other games.

[@jamesbrown5736]

@@shawnp4155Everyone recognizes innovation…Breath of the Wild was new, Tears of the Kingdom is improved, much akin to the likes of Assassins Creed I to part II and the innovation leap that game series had, and has since failed to recapture…

[@visceraeyes525]

@@ShadowAraun botw is objectively NOT good, due to the weapon durability system and the devs didnt even listen to the fans complaints for the sequel lol

[@wojiaobill]

so glad you made this video, because as a dad Im so busy and Ive also been finding Tears to be overwhelming. you've inspired me to keep at it!

[@BigBaldBearded]

For me, this is a game that I will probably pour hundreds of hours into it. The only frustration I have had is the breakable weapons, but as you said in my exploration, I’ve been able to address that by making better weapons. I’m a gamer who wants his money’s worth. So I tend to explore and do side quests before I tackle main missions so I can have longer with the game. Unless I get to a point where I need a main mission to advance to a point. I already have 100 hours on it. I have done maybe 3 main missions, dozens of side quests and the rest has just been exploring, discovering the awe of it all. AND I have only been into the depths ONCE for 1 side mission. I now live on my own and at 50 years old, regardless of what people may think, I will be playing this constantly for many months. The longest game I have ever played and put the most hours into was Elden Ring right now at 668 hours, but I have not beaten and/or discovered everything in it yet. Tears of the Kingdom, I think I can top Elden Ring just because of my approach to how I play. Nintendo, I salute you (I still have not beaten BOTW yet either) but TOTK is probably my favorite game of all time already. I can’t get enough of it.

[@BigBaldBearded]

@Zippy Dastrange everybody likes what they like. You’re not wrong on your opinion. I don’t agree with your opinion, but it doesn’t make your opinion wrong. Zelda and Elden Ring for me as an old gamer are two of the absolute best open world games ever made. Skyrim is fantastic too. But again, we all play games differently and I just am not a PC gamer at all and probably won’t ever be. I don’t really care about mods and this and that. I despise multiplayer. So these long, epic, single player open world games are for me. I play a variety of games, but I don’t do multiplayer anything. How Nintendo pulled off TOTK on the Switch is ridiculous feat given the physics and multi layered nature of the world. I hear ya Zippy, but we’ll just agree to disagree and it is okay. Zelda TOTK is definitely FAR from boring me right now. When I have to stop playing to work and sleep, I get mad. That’s how in it I am. Bathroom breaks piss me off.

[@BigBaldBearded]

@Zippy Dastrange this is what I can’t stand about gamers. Why can’t we just all play the games we enjoy and give our opinions without trying to be all super analytical about nonsense? So you don’t like open world sandboxes. Cool. But to tell me I am the problem with games as a whole because I like huge open worlds where there are things to discover and I can play the main story on my own time and level, that is ignorance at its finest. The problem with games now are people like you who can’t even have a conversation about a game with out picking apart what YOU don’t like then telling me because I LIKE it, I am the problem with games as a whole. Talking about all the nonsense you just spewed is the reason I play what I want to and I like what I like and I try to listen to all opinions. But then I run into shit like this where “super gamer” has to be right and try to tear down anyone who doesn’t see it his way. News flash. I really don’t give a damn if you don’t like Zelda or Elden Ring it’s your choice. But I like them both and I will play them both for many hours because they are quality games that gives me the single player experience I WANT, NOT YOU. So quit wasting my time, I don’t need to hear anymore of your “expertise” on games that are obviously popular with many many more people than just yourself and a batch of PC gamers who feel they have to just poke and prod console gamers for the hell of it. I am not the problem with games. It’s opinions like yours and then attacking a fellow gamer because they don’t see things your way. We’re all gamers, we all will like and play what we want. But just like society, you have to try and force feed your “extensive” knowledge of gaming to show your some kind of superior human or something. I say grow up, enjoy the games you want to play and quit trying to ruin what other people like by acting like a douche.

[@lordrikudouzero9119]

Good for you!!! Keep having fun and doing your thing👍🏾 I’m having a blast, mostly exploring, but will get to story beats soon.

[@JGRICH61]

I did the complete opposite. Entered the Depths early on and never came out. I’m a good 40 hours exploring the depths. Wouldn’t have it any other way.

[@viktorwolfe8333]

How do you know who many hours you have in something? 668 hours seems pretty specific.

[@flink1231]

It's truly remarkable how bug free it is. Hopefully other softhouses are taking note. Other than graphics these games are super complex, so no excuses for others developers.

[@bruhcoin2361]

Nintendo is squeeky clean in the bug department

[@oranjesus49]

@@bruhcoin2361 Satoru Iwata legacy still there :')

[@penguin16813]

Totk is a generational masterpiece. I was also frustrated at first until I realized. The game isn’t meant to be full explored and beaten in a week. It’s built to be explored for months and months. Once I realized that I started taking my time with every part, every town, every location. Slowing it down.

[@RealJeffTidwell]

Yup. Trying to solve all of your problems in one day is a good analog. You don’t. You solve them over a longer period of time

[@fabolousjada5070]

Sounds like a souls game .. thank from software where they got their breath of the wild idea from

[@jjwhy321y3]

Dark souls is 90% fighting w 10% puzzles (if that). TOTK is the opposite.

[@xxxs8309]

Exactly

[@chrisblair9272]

Yup! I was binging the game like crazy first week and quickly began to realize this. Rather I’ve found taking 1-2 hours a day to do something really intentional (explore the depths, find shrines, do a dungeon, dragon tears, etc) has made the game feel way less overwhelming.

[@jxmez9270]

So crazy how spot on you got it. I had the same overwhelming moment (only about 10 hours worth of moment haha) and the way I got out of it was by refusing to walk anywhere. Figured out how to tame a horse and ended up finding a stable to register it. From that point on I was a lot happier with the game because I felt like I was actually achieving something. Good vid man, new sub.

[@TwoEyesOpen]

I can definitely see what you're saying about feeling overwhelmed or feeling like you've not gotten anywhere. I'm still working through Breath of the Wild and felt similarly until I started making a point to tackle the shrines and then the Divine Beasts. Now I feel like some of the limits have been broken and I can do whatever. Can't wait to play TotK, I'm so glad it proved to be fantastic to you, Breath of the Wild is a tough act to follow!

[@kadosho02]

It is definitely worth it, also be sure to obtain all the memories as well. It is all connected BotW compared to TotK. Both are amazing. It is incredible we have both entries on the same system

[@BrendanPatrickGrace]

As someone who played through BOTW rather quickly (did it in under 3 weeks just before Tears came out), that was my biggest frustration about the game. They fix it in Tears, one in a not so subtle way, the other one requires to use the tiniest bit of thinking.

[@sparkzmentalz2]

I'm also playing through BOTW while playing this and BOTW is way more frustrating than TOTK. I did 2 divine beasts but I'm honestly ready to quit BOTW since it feels like a chore to play compared to TOTK.

[@tristangruener9571]

It’s crazy how different the experience is for everyone… the game is definitely overwhelming, but I kinda just talked to people at lookout landing and decided to just go straight to Rito village with a low amount of hearts, like 4 or 5. But it kinda taught me to really embrace fuse and figure out how to make good weapons. I still feel super overwhelmed but kinda cool with it because whenever I turn it on I’ve got stuff to accomplish

[@halfalligator6518]

Yeah same. You don't need too many hearts when cooking is so useful. Also a fact many don't know... if you're on full hearts, it's impossible to die in one hit. Doesn't matter if you have 3 or 10 hearts... if they're full you won't die straight away. So just keep heaps of food about and it's not hard to push through harder fights (though you might run low on food). Everything just kinda balances well like that, the rewards for exploring (food, hearts & armor) are the Zelda equivalent of leveling up in other RPG's. For average to good players... I suggest stacking up the stamina wheel early, it makes exploring so much more enjoyable.

[@StripedBass-vq6vz]

@@halfalligator6518Outside of doing the necessary number of shrines you can easily cheese this game by solely focusing on the main quests. The exploration wasn’t very appealing to me because you don’t get rewarded with anything that really matters, at least in terms making the game easier to beat.

[@DongusMcBongus]

Weirdly after beating the game. I feel so much less pressure, and I’m now in the same groove I got into with BotW. I think there was also external pressure because KZbin was dead set on spoiling the game for me.

[@halfalligator6518]

@@StripedBass-vq6vz yeah... i guess they didnt want to force 200 hours on most players to beat the game. It must be a hard balance to work out... what you do get is upgrades that let you slice through enemies like butter. You continually get better at fighting too which can be fun in and of itself if you like all the acrobatics. Hopefully the inevitable "master mode" will be a finely tuned experience this time, rather than simply boosting some stats.

[@StripedBass-vq6vz]

@@halfalligator6518 It’s good they provide that option. And ya, it’s a problem that most open world games have to contend with.

[@Xxsilverblade1991xX]

I had a similar experience to you where for 20 hours I wasn't following the main story at all and while I had a lot of hearts and stamina realised I needed to start mainlining. Once that happened I managed to find the *spoiler endgame character* like 40 hours before I was supposed to. The game is insane with the freedom it gives you.

[@thebuckeyegamer7443]

I was the same way. I put 30 hours in before I actually took off with the story. It definitely felt like I was burned out on shrine hunting. But at least I am better equipped

[@jdlyonsky]

Same. I went off exploring and even taking photos of statues in the depths that I thought might be important. Flew into a thunderstorm cloud and found a door that I couldn't open with so few hearts. Completed a few shrines and came back with a few more hearts and off I was assembling a robot.

[@zurinarctus7755]

Not gonna write an essay about this game. I just wanna say that after 20 years of gaming in every platform this game is my Nr 1 of all time. I'm totally blow away. I bow to you Nintendo for what you did here.

[@mrplayfulshade]

Nintendo fans have a really low standard then

[@macweed3358]

@@mrplayfulshade behave yourself zelda is the greatest game ever made

[@heffe4257]

Lol ok guy

[@lukeyost7566]

@@macweed3358there’s a ton of Zelda games so which one…

[@macweed3358]

@@lukeyost7566 the whole saga

[@PogueSquadron]

I had very similar thoughts. At the beginning, I’m like…do I not like this? But suddenly something did click more for me, when I realized I was still running around with bad armor. The basic set at the beginning was more helpful, and that, along with more hearts, made things easier. But it also really wasn’t until a couple days that the weapon fusing clicked for me. And once THAT clicked, I was like oh, you really have to rely on this and lean into this, because you can easily start doubling and sometimes tripling your weapon stats. Once you do that, you start missing bombs a bit less. But basically then you start cross crossing the whole map, and you can easily almost get to every tower practically instantly. And they probably did this intentionally because it’s a world you already know. And then every fiber of me is going “I need to get to the sky so I can get moving.” I do miss a certain ability but getting height is really the key to making your way around. So now I’m overwhelmed in a different way- because it feels like there are so many things I CAN go do.

[@wearethenewsnow3644]

Yeah that's where I've been at for days. Like wtf do I do. But I finally had enough courage to go Kakariko village

[@RSanchez111]

Setting longer term goals for yourself helps avoid that initial frustration. I followed in game quests until I ended up in the depths. At first I thought it was just a dungeon for that side quest but when I found out it was a whole map, I just had to explore it. Then after that I had to explore the skyview towers. That took me to the Rito village and I had to explore the dungeons. I found the lucky clover and then I had to explore the stables. Along the way there were always landmarks and caves and monster camps I had to explore. I had bigger goals but everything along the way I wanted to see and 200 hours later the game is still gripping me. It's amazing!

[@squadrin360]

70 hours and I’m still exploring. Savoring every moment. This is a masterpiece I’m enjoying slowly.

[@mingyuhuang8944]

This game is absolutely incredible. It's like an industrial revolution but in game form, truly groundbreaking❤

[@michaelfernandez2254]

200 hours still exploring

[@shaunmartinell5825]

410 Hours, take your time!!!!!! Enjoy it - there won’t be another for at least 5 more years!

[@squadrin360]

@@shaunmartinell5825 super facts maybe 7

[@chilicheesejay]

I felt the same way two days in. Then I came across the Royal Hidden Passage and that was just an awesome exploring experience.

[@kadosho02]

It is so vast, with so much to do. Traversing sky, earth, and the underground. Holy cow did they put so much love into this

[@adsldave]

I’m around 80 hours into this at the moment, so far it’s my favourite game of all time. The scope, the amount of ingenuity it allows, the variety, It’s just a pure pleasure experience for me.

[@VowofMoment]

It's not just one of the best Zelda games, it's one of the best games Nintendo has ever made.

[@fotografick]

After 350 hours I'm still finding new things. This is my favorite game, combining exploration with creativity, providing so many opportunities for discovery and inventiveness. It is the best example of a sequel, building on everything that made Breath of the Wild a masterpiece.

[@matthewpinder4279]

It's overwhelming for sure. I'm 30 hours in and still not sure what I should be doing. At the moment I'm hunting down shrines and unlocking the map piece by piece. Have completed one temple which was incredible. The journey to it was something else. The chasms are pretty challenging at the moment, once that gloom hits you're on a countdown to fast travelling out of there. Still haven't built any amazing contraptions but just taking my time and having an adventure. I've avoided all videos so as to keep everything new. I'll take my time with this one. Definitely not a game to rush through to the end!

[@tanigarcia100]

Feel you I still just open the path for the water temple and kept getting one shot by weak enemies so now I'm just hunting shrines like 60 hours in and enjoying it

[@knightfromlordran]

Im probably 45-50 hours in and feel the same. I absolutely love

[@tanigarcia100]

@@ChronoCrossIsUnderrated well the mechanics are the same but the 3 head dragon and the bosses and the zonia boss are different not to mention that all the shrines this time all have a purpose to teach you without holding your hand and there is no other game that has given me this feeling of satisfaction!!!

[@yue7507]

Time really flies when you're having fun. I've put in 75 hours which shocked me at first because I thought I had played way less. I've only completed half of the temples. I'm spending most of my time exploring and building. This game is amazing.

[@summerycast7936]

For one, get out of the mindset of what you "should" do. Instead, think of what _you_ want to do. I like exploring the Sky, and finding ways to reach new sky islands. So that's what I focus on for now. Got my first temple done to get a taste of it, travelled around by horse, and explored a bit of The Depths. How about you? Seems like you have a good idea of what you want to focus on in the game.

[@chaosbullies3495]

I’m absolutely adoring the game. It’s easily one of my favorite games of all time. I hope you and Rob man do a long spoiler chat in the future, that would be amazing. I love to hear you guys talk and hush over games, it hypes me up even more.

[@snesprincess]

it is truely amazing I'm loving streaming it and have made some really fun videos about it!

[@figvania4805]

This game is something that has never been made before. The devs should be proud. It's amazing

[@k_u_e_r_i_s_u_e]

6 years ago, called botw.. good game, bad zelda

[@tor2919]

Best Zelda. Finally Nintendo returned to the visions set out by the first Legend of Zelda. I love the compartmentalised formula as set out by Zelda 3 too, but to me the core of Zelda is lost in that structure. In particular how the world and dungeons just transition completely seamlessly in Totk is just incredible. One never quite knows where things begin and end. It’s one beautiful thing.

[@peppercatx6470]

I love the feeling this game invokes, the feeling that you need to meet it halfway. Very rarely do I come across modern AAA games that ask that of the player. It is a very Nintendo thing to do and I'm glad it still exists.

[@jamesn7156]

I’m an extremely casual gamer and felt the same way with Breath of the Wild. When I stopped running around randomly and focused on opening all the area maps, I started having fun. What I love about these games is you can take time off, forget where you were, but come back and give yourself a new goal that is extremely satisfying to accomplish. I just ordered Tears for my Daughter’s birthday. I’ll probably never beat either of these games, but when I dip back in I’ll always know how to have fun and it will never stop.

[@WhoLoc]

The game is fantastic , I’ve literally put 80 hours into the game and it’s felt like only a few . Such an amazing game

[@richardfromatlanta8551]

I’ve played video games for over 40 years and this is the greatest game I’ve ever played.

[@MajoraKamen64]

Should have played more games in those 40 years than. Not even remotely the best Zelda game, so I would say it's pretty far from being the best game ever. Lot of reused asset from its predecessor, an entire world almost... one new mechanic which is very interesting and pretty well implemented but still not a real Zelda game, botw flaws weren't fixed at all in this one. Quantity over quality but the Zelda formula isn't just right there.

[@NEH85]

​@@MajoraKamen64Good to know it's not 'a real Zelda game' 😂 What are you babbling about? His opinion is just as valid as yours.

[@MajoraKamen64]

@@NEH85 it is not tho, go play all the other Zelda game and come back telling me with botw and totk the saga hasn't took a completely different path. Which ofc in my opinion is worse than the old one, surely not just in my opinion in realty but whatever. BTW saying this is the best game played in 40 years of gaming is absurd imho but yeah ofc you can have that opinion. I just suggested he may have not played a lot of games than... Cause you know, there are masterpieces that are way better than totk.

[@NEH85]

@@MajoraKamen64 I get it. If you like a more structured Zelda game, you won't like the open world as much. I think it's a reasonable progression of the series, and Tears is one of the most polished games you will ever see, for what it's worth. Did you like Elden Ring?

[@dixxonsideyou4038]

@@MajoraKamen64 Nah better than all the other zeldas.

[@ddfitness832]

This is one of the best reviews I have seen. So true with the feeling of being overwhelmed at the beginning and struggling at first. Then you find your own personal way and the game just expands and becomes endless entertainment. 10/10 masterpiece

[@iBeAsTeX]

Doesn't sound like 10/10 if you have to overcome frustration

[@47drift]

@@iBeAsTeX Growth is an essential to being human

[@iBeAsTeX]

@@47drift Yeah but not in a video game

[@kameryngreer3098]

@@iBeAsTeX you don’t like to progress in your video games? It should all come easy to you immediately, right?

[@iBeAsTeX]

@@kameryngreer3098 Nope, but a game that is described as "2 days of frustration and not fun" doesn't sound like the game for me.

[@armandoc2584]

What I recommend to everyone is get all the towers done first. Completely reveal the map ignore everything until you do that, and do each shrine you see as you go along. By the time you do every tower you are ready for whatever the game throws at you and not only that but you know the map so whenever you are given a quest with a location you know where to go. This game was a blast.

[@firebirdstark]

Yeah it didn’t really support just being listless like BotW because it’s just so much. The weight of it really is overwhelming without opening up the map firstz

[@mattcv86]

Always open the map first

[@fredtott4684]

I did that but after I tried to do the "Depth" map as well....and boy, that wasn't as a good idea with 4-5 hearts, some fused branches and a wooden shield.

[@snesprincess]

I've been working my way tower to tower.. Can't find goron city at all.. I've got about half the map revelaed but trying to do the RITO DUNGEON now

[@armandoc2584]

@@fredtott4684 the best way to do that is to realize that the shrines on the surface are the roots on the depths. Once you start doing it this way it all falls into place.

[@TrulySpencerPDX]

I was overwhelmed for the first 10 hours.. then I simply did the first main quest, and after that, I was rolling. Haven't been frustrated once since. I'm 60 hours in, i have not even touched the main story again since the first mission, and I'm still as excited to keep going more than I ever have. 10/10 masterpiece. It's the G.O.A.T OF ZELDAS.

[@k_u_e_r_i_s_u_e]

nah its a good game but not a good zelda. The dungeons are trash....how could this be the goat of zelda 😂 you don't know anything about zelda

[@tor2919]

🤣😂🤣😂 try harder

[@belisarius6949]

Do things at your pace! Never let anyone tell you to hurry or do this or that.

[@TrulySpencerPDX]

@k_u_e_r_i_s_u_e except that I own and have literally played every zelda game that's been released. But i don't know what a zelda game is. Just like you don't know how to ignore an opinion you don't agree with. 👌

[@mingyuhuang8944]

This game is absolutely incredible. It's like an industrial revolution but in game form, truly groundbreaking

[@corey2232]

This is how I feel watching a lot of TV shows or anime that went on to become some of my favorite series. Felt like nothing was going anywhere, that watching was becoming a waste of time, only to push through a point that suddenly hits you & makes it all come together. Actually on topic now - I bought a copy of TotK day 1, and still haven't even played it once. I keep seeing all the building stuff & thinking "this is going to be too overwhelming... maybe later." This video has finally given me some confidence to start, even if it also confirmed my fears 😅

[@tcrpgfan]

It's not too bad. They tutorialize A LOT without being hand holdy about it and the build mechanic is very intuitive.

[@timothymiller5539]

I'm 290 hours in and it's my favorite game of all time. Likely wrapping up my first playthrough around 330 hours in. 🍻

[@stuartleeder2181]

I totally agree , Im 120 hours and only done one Temple , found myself wondering off exploring everything and every corner and getting overwhelmed with how much to see and do - Im back in the main quest and back on track - loving every minute , the only disappointment with the game if one is not underwater exploration like BOTW cud have been amazing 😬.. Im off to put some more hours in - it’s a fantastic challenge after Elden ring 😍😍

[@fedenciogonzalezjr9051]

Everyone plays it differently and thats what I like about this game.

[@VictorECaplon]

I think what Nintendo did both good and bad is that the regional phenomenon are actually balanced for early game. Especially if you do them in order (Rito, Gordon, Zora, Gerudo). Personally I did not encounter your problem at all as I aimed to follow the story and did shrines, memories, caves and towers on the way to each. It never felt overwhelming nor too difficult/easy. Once I completed the regional phenomenons, the depth and the Crisis quests, there was some down time for the search of the fifth ***. I used that time to do more shrines and explore the depth. I’m actually still doing it so I appreciate no spoilers. All of that to say that by following the story paths loosely, I completed most of the surface methodically without being overwhelmed. There is a point in the game where things slow down but since I’ve done quite a bit, I feel eased into exploring and completing more secondary objectives such as the fairies, pirates, my home and more. I think I’ll get back to the story soon, but first I want to find the Deku tree since I’ve yet to make it there.

[@Maccrack2]

I freakin love your reviews. After all these years you still manage to deliver with these vids !

[@sheskimusic]

Well, shit. Looks like I’m buying this game. 10/10 video. Streamers, learn from this.

[@videozz2012]

So good to hear a positive review of Tears because I felt like this game was truly amazing!!!

[@saildust]

I love how Johnny is so candid and true to his feelings about games and doesn't say particular things to appeal to people, one of the reasons i trust him as a reviewer more than most reviewers.

[@chrisjones6110]

The best game i have ever played, I'm 49

[@PlusUltraAdrian]

I had the same problem with Elden Ring. There was so much to do that I wasn't getting anywhere. Not to mention I was struggling with the navigation and I hated how you had to get map pieces to see more of the map. I was never able to overcome those shortcoming like you did with TOTK. But funny enough, I do see similarities with TOTK and Elden Ring. But, I do feel that TOTK does things a lot better in my opinion. I'm not struggling with finding out where to go and I haven't gotten lost once in the game. I still have a ways to go, but, I do think this will end up being my GOTY.

[@scaryboi2897]

I actually got really frustrated tonight and I was literally about to give up, but I'm glad I saw your video because you gave me hope and motivation to keep going. I'll knock out a few more shrines

[@MilesWilliams88]

The game is really special. My partner of eight years, and I just broke up about a week ago. I'm in a weird place mentally, but this game has been something to take my mind off of it. It's huge and seemingly endless... which is exactly what I need right now.

[@Charliezard412]

I played this game for 65 hours. Beat all the main quests and decided to stream it for my friends but I accidentally overwrit my save because I didn't change profiles. Even after all that time I was still having so much fun recoloring everything and even finding new stuff. I can only play about 3-4 hours at a time before I get videogame fatigue but I have a lot of fun exploring and just styling on enemies now. This is a great game. GOTY of the year del año for sure.

[@DerTendou]

When I arrived at the overworld I was overwhelmed too and didn't had much progress but it was strangely frustrating but fun at the same time. Setting little goals helped me getting a better structure, but it's rarely going according to plan because there are so many things along the way I just have to do or to check out. When I play this game time flies by and you don't really notice it. Fantastic game.

[@snesprincess]

check out my stream. I get sidetracked easily but it's still fun! loving this game

[@thought_scores]

I’ve had a very similar experience to you so far, the earlier stages of your play through. When I was wandering around directionless, it was relaxing, but felt a little frustrating. I think it clicked for me when I started engaging with each layer of the world: sky, land and depths. I find the game has a really good ability to tie each layer of the experience together but dynamically, so there’s never an explicit way you should approach it, but somehow empowers you whatever way you do approach it. Once I chose a direction and started taking more control of the world I started challenging enemies and puzzles every opportunity I had, much more powerful now.

[@AbstractM0use]

Haven't got to this one yet, but my main problem with the breakable weapons system in BotW is I felt you shouldn't have to deal with it once you have the Master Sword, but they even cripple that when you use it, so you have to recharge it.

[@justrenz6908]

Just fix your weapons using rock octorocks

[@moomanchu608]

Its really not that bad. I had that issue before and i hated botw for the past 5 years. Even though weapons break easily, you can choose to not fight and even when you do, you are bound to find more weapons anyway

[@karmad.twelve6613]

I've felt that overwhelming frustration! Then i just found my path, just as you said, Johnny!

[@SnowyTaco]

Not going to lie, I miss going from point A to point B. I’m glad people are overwhelmingly enjoying this open world madness. I had fun with them while younger but I can’t do them anymore

[@JazGalaxy]

I would suggest using a guide and making it more straightforward for yourself.

[@jacksonjackson-w2y]

ive came to a realization. anyone under the age of 40 seems to love the creativity, and anyone over 40 generally thinks its to much brain work. could this be an issue of your cognitant abilities starting to diminish in your mid 40s? lol

[@henryferguson48]

Me too, with "grow up" responsibilities, i find simple A to B games more practical and fun.

[@shaggysweetness]

@@jacksonjackson-w2y Has nothing to do with age. Most people will realise in time, that their time is their most valuable commodity. BotW and TotK is very good in making that time be used for little to no reward overall, due to the size and spread out reward structure of the game.

[@99Vood99]

@@shaggysweetness Agreed and thank you for replying to that guy's comment - utterly nonsensical. I'm 40 and I simply don't have the time to play 'open world' games due to responsibilities. I'm glad that people do have the cycles to play these games and enjoy them but I personally prefer shorter, tighter games.

[@kidarmstrong8676]

Played 170 hours and can agree I felt the same way at the start..like I wasn’t getting anywhere- So I mainlined the quests to a certain point (no spoilers) and then you’ll be a lot more prepared for the massive world.. You’re correct, this game is about playing however you want.. My buddy prioritized all the armor and weapons at the start, and I prioritized the batteries .. so just a few days in I was flying/driving all over the map -building and he was still using the paraglider and fast travel.. 🔋 he was frustrated.. he took the time to grind the depths.. now he’s happy again.. I would recommend use walkthrough, tips and tricks guides , there’s so much hidden and stuff no review has talked about.. don’t expect this to be over quick.. with 170 hours , I still have caves, shrines, some of the depths, main quests, side quests.. armor , weapon discovery.. hidden bosses..😂 great review! Enjoy your adventure 🫡🤞🧝‍♂️🏰☁️💧🛡️⚔️

[@aaronpomeroy2579]

The ending was the most amazing I’ve ever experienced in a video game.

[@Kschreck]

Yup the game was overwhelming jumping into it. With these kinds of games I usually work on building up my character (stats and gear), work on side quests that feel they add something and then eventually move on through the story. For my own sanity, I tend to use a guide on some of the quests and shrines to help keep the progress going at a fast enough pace.

[@hotdoggington6962]

The freedom that this game offers is something that's going to be studied for a long, long time. It makes me think of the saying, "enough rope to hang yourself". This game absolutely can tempt you into playing in an un-optimal way, whether that's in how effective your problem solving, or even in how much fun you're having moment to moment. It's *constant* moments of realizing how much you can do, and what all your options really are. 75 hours in and I've barely scratched the surface, and those moments aren't just still there, they're coming even faster. Learning how to optimize (for me) my experience in playing this game is eerily like my own personal journey in finding meaning and fun IRL. That's how profound it is to me. I find myself going slower and slower the further in I go, because of the ever increasing inevitability that, at some point, it's going to end. Between that and the weapon durability system, no other game has made me confront grief and loss like this has 😂

[@1Patrick]

"Learning how to optimize (for me) my experience in playing this game is eerily like my own personal journey in finding meaning and fun IRL." I 100% agree!! I've always been drawn to really big, gameplay-driven games with a lot of freedom and dynamic systems, but Tears of the Kingdom tops it all and it's not even close. I'm beyond happy that this game has been made. And I think the only thing that will top it is Tears of the Kingdom 2 haha.

[@avocadeous]

@@1Patrickhonestly, tears has been great for me simply because of how much freedom it gives. I remember one time in the great sky island, I’d accidentally dropped the hook platform that you use to slide down the rails. So you know what I did? I made my own damn hook out of skyshrooms and rushrooms and made a platform out of stones. Attach em together and you wouldn’t believe it wasn’t the actual platform!The amount of creative freedom has made tears of the kingdom one of my favourites of all time. Whilst it sure isn’t like wind Waker or OOT when it comes to dungeons, I honestly don’t care too much because the game just lets me solve the problems however I want to. I love games that adopt the “if it works, it works.” Mentality, and so far tears is easily at the top in that category.

[@1Patrick]

@@avocadeous haha thats awesome. And yeah i dont mind the temples as well. Because of the amount of tools and systems the game gives us to play with more than makes up for it for me.

[@mr_spooner2878]

I felt very similar at the beginning. I was almost overwhelmed by the possibilities compared to its predecessor. I was very glad that Nintendo used the map from BotW, so at least I wasn't completely lost. Nintendo has always exuded adventure flair with Zelda. For me, Tears of the Kingdom is the epitome of a virtual adventure. I've been playing all kinds of video games for over 35 years, but I've never experienced anything like TotK. And I agree with you. I can hardly imagine how Nintendo is going to top it. However, I've often asked myself that in the past and they've always surprised me. My personal opinion: Nintendo is still one of the most important innovators on the market when it comes to experiencing virtual worlds. I also like many games from the West. But Japanese games, and especially Nintendo games, show me again and again what I have loved about the medium of video games all my life. Thank you for your great videos. I like your passion. Keep it that way. 👍

[@necron9987]

It is my favourite game of all time. Your enthusiasm is exactly how I feel about TOTK. It is amazing and unforgettable.

[@tangojamo6929]

It's reminding me more and more of what it was like playing the original LoZ when it released for the first time when I was like 9 years old. Just getting lost in it, the discovery, finding secret doorways under rocks and bushes, bombing every wall, burning every tree, reading Nintendo Power for hints, even calling the hotline when I was stuck. It's truly magical in that same way. I can see why this iteration of the game is compared so much to the original gold cartridge LoZ. It's just wide open.

[@meatsloth333]

Instead of Nintendo power and hotlines we have KZbin now hahaha. I loved how the first game gave you a map and a note pad to write stuff down.

[@jdecosta]

You perfectly captured how I feel about being overwhelmed! I know I'm playing a fantastic game but I also wasn't getting anywhere...so I put it down. When I have an hour a day to play, I needed to do something where I saw progression. But after watching your video I'm excited to get back to TotK.

[@jada8047]

I like this kinda Zelda games only problem I always need help on where to go an the shrines are hard to figure unless I look at Utube for guidance. An same goes for the enemies...

[@minbari73]

You're used to being lead around and things being handed to you, as was I. It's not about the 5xArrows in the chest you took 5 minutes getting to, it's about that 5 minutes. Breath it in, exist in the world and take your time.

[@minbari73]

@@jada8047 The shrines aren't like BoTW's, which i found annoying. The two or three out of 35 or so ive done so far that ive had to go to youtube for, turned out to be so obvious i should have slapped myself for not remembering what i could do. I am not a puzzle guy yet i find these enjoyable as hell and look forward to them

[@jada8047]

@@minbari73 I find this game way harder so far than original but better.. But I like original also. One thing I learned about is talking to people for quick jobs an checking out every area for treasures shrines an Koko seeds is definitely important. I need to find that big Koko seed guy again I have a lot of Koko seeds...

[@minbari73]

@@jada8047 He's back at your first tower.

[@themailman3331]

Same, I was 25 hours in and completely overwhelmed. I focused on the shrines, built up some hearts and stamina. Enemies were getting easier, more stamina allowed me to find new places. The rupees I built up allowed me to buy a sweet armor set. Rinse and repeat, and before you know it, you’re in a nice groove.

[@thedrunkmonkshow]

I can totally relate! It's not to say that I wasted hours at first because I found and discovered lots of things along the way off the beaten path, but I realized something very important about 15 hours in. When you feel like you're not getting anywhere then it's time to hit select and focus your attention into main quests and reading the story. Before you know it you'll find yourself in a temple and once you complete that then it all starts to come back together with a purpose. Also, just like BOTW, it's important to invest time finding the great fairies. I'm about 35 hours in now and still have a lot more to do but those things will have you well on your way for sure. 😎

[@wearethenewsnow3644]

That's how Zelda 64 was for me at first too.

[@demonslayer9551]

It’s my favorite game to take on long vacations and flights. I still haven’t finished it. I had to put I down after about 2months because it was overwhelming and I just don’t have the time. So now I tackle it at my own pace whenever I have time.

[@GeneralOlde]

I’ve been a Zelda fan since Ocarina of Time, and, as much as I’ve liked past incarnations of the character, BOTW/TOTK’s incarnation of Princess Zelda is the first one that I’ve really LOVED. You get a great sense for her internal struggle, her love not only for Link but also for Hyrule and its people, the way she figures out everything that's happening around her together and makes long-term gambles according to that information, how she puts everything on the line to save Hyrule, and how she ultimately overcomes everything in the end. I also love that her relationship with Rauru and Sonia allows her to grow as a person thanks to their love and kindess. She rejects the royal kingdom complex of her time period that put her under so much pressure and stress in favor of the indigenous Hyrule where she experienced love for not only her but her abilities. She makes decisions in TOTK not because she's an obedient princess but because she has found her own autonomy. Between BOTW and TOTK, a real character shone through. But perhaps my favorite thing about her is I find the side of her that is obsessed with research to be absolutely adorable and endearing. I like to think that Link grew to love her the more he saw of her nerdy side. She’s also my favorite Zelda design-wise; she looks amazing in all of her outfits, particularly her default outfit in both games and her ritual outfit in TOTK.

[@ppfclark]

My path was this: 1. Make a run for all the Skyview Towers. I'd launch off the first one to get to the next one. Baked apples were my main source of food. 2. After opening up the entire map. I'd launch off a Skyview Tower, then mark all the visible shrines and "tears" from the air using the sheikah slate. I'd finish all of the shrines near one tower, then move on to the next. 3. At about 7 hearts, I tackle my first temple (water). Then I'd do shrines 8-12 shrines and a few Tears more and move on to the next temple. **** Don't sell monster parts (You need them to upgrade equipment). Don't sleep on upgrading your stamina, once you have eight hearts you should should upgrade your stamina. Enjoy! Remember it's a marathon, not a sprint.

[@BloodRayneUK]

Hiya John and this was a great final thoughts video, absolutely nailed it ☺️👌🏼 l was also a bit lost as l was in awe of what you could do initially and was just roaming the world. Very much like yourself, shrines became my focus and also towers but most importantly story progression was key. I am still not through the game yet and l have two of my translucent blue friends to help me so far but it’s just remarkable. Especially on gaming architecture which is 6-7 years old. It’s just a testament that having all the fancy graphics and power doesn’t mean the game will be amazing. Story, game play, and to be honest the emotions of how you feel playing it are worth their weight in gold. Totally agree these two Zelda games are the best games on the Switch, most likely the best Nintendo has ever produced and it’s my GOTY by a mile and l don’t see that being beaten. Great upload John as always ☺️👍🏼

[@reallycoolguys]

That's great advice about just doing the shrines. I've been exploring so much and getting so frustrated getting a one-hitted but guys I shouldn't be near but I wanted to see what was going on in the areas that I'd already been. Coming into the game I want to see how everything's changed

[@minbari73]

One hitted because you weren't full health to begin with.

[@stephensays8726]

I felt the same as this with the first game, sounds like I would have been driven insane by this one.

[@ClumpypooCP]

Yeah you would, theres too much going on in totk

[@RKOJERR]

Great review. Your opening points is exactly how I felt. Love it but the agitation and fatigue felt real. When I started focusing more on the main quests then it got much more fun as the exploration became parallel to where I was

[@Paullebbon]

I agree completely, after the first 2 days I was ready to quit. The shrines were so hard and the red monsters were killing me with one hit! After 150 hours I am now getting things done. It is an incredible game, the depth and sensational thought put into this game is awesome. I am on 20 hearts, full stamina, 10 batteries and have my new house stocked up with some great weapons. But I have only done most of the shrines in the depths, hardly any in the sky or on the ground. I look forward to my few hours a day I get to play and look forward to completing the game so I can start all over again and do it differently next time. Number 1 game of all time for me and as you said I have played them all!

[@GameJunctionMedia]

Another awesome video Johnny. You inspire me so much!

[@patftw9757]

It is an overwhelming game. It’s meant to be savored

[@MilesWilliams88]

Exactly. I see a lot of people try to rush huge games like these. In my opinion, they're kind of losing the point. I mean... play how you want, and all that, but I don't see the point. I listen to a podcast where one of the main guys is a huge Dark Souls/Fromsoftware fan (as am I). He rushed though Elden Ring and got the platinum in 60 hours while using guides. It seemed weird to me that he was hyping the game up for literally years only to try and rush it as fast as possible when it came out.

[@TowerVinylRecords]

You nailed it for me with the beginning, I was just running around. But then suddenly the world opened up!

[@Gambenoful]

Tears of the Kingdom is insane. I can't believe they could make something better than botw. Going into the chasm for the first and realizing how massive the game was is a moment I'll never forget.

[@TheMrGiannisgr]

It’s way way bigger. Better is a big word.

[@MilesWilliams88]

The chasms are legitimately creepy too. The music when you first dropped in spooked me more than anything in any Nintendo game😂

[@MilesWilliams88]

​@@TheMrGiannisgr I think it's better in every way. More enemy variety, better abilities, better "dungeons," etc. That's just my opinion though. I haven't beat it, so maybe I'll change my mind by the end.

[@KingzofMinnesota]

I think I subbed to you back in like 2009 man i'm so happy to see you're still doing videos!

[@tavasaikong2740]

I still cant get over weapons degradation. It really kills the exploration when you know the weapons you find will break, so what's the point of exploring? You explore to find cool items and gear. Also, when the weapons break, it also breaks the immersion and flow of combat. You get into a rhythm, and then the weapon breaks and it kills the flow of combat. Every time a weapon breaks, you must cycle through the menu, choose a weapon and try to get the rhythm of combat back. It's frustrating and annoying. I hate it.

[@1DangerMouse1]

Yeah this game is over rated! People seem to forget that it's a game not just some demo of game physics.

[@Eloharigaming8514]

I feel you there. But the exploration imo rewards moreso with armorsets than weapons in tears. I hated botw for that exact reason but there is actually rewarding gear to find. Plus the weapon dupe glitches really help with my énjoyment of the game personally

[@theMidsizeLebowski]

It's incredible Nintendo managed to develop a game so massive, flawlessly bug-free, beautiful (the art in this game is truly stunning, even better than Breath of the Wild), and full of things to discover across 3 massive maps. It is an amazing game. That said, I liked Breath of the Wild better despite its smaller scale. There are very few games that have made me care as much about the characters, and about resolving the story, like Breath of the Wild did. Tears of the Kingdom's story was very good - solid writing, solid overall story arc, but it lacked the emotional impact, and the feeling that Breath of the Wild gave me of wanting to do everything in my power to help its characters. Tears of the Kingdom also sadly got boring pretty fast. The puzzles were all simpler (shrines, koroks, etc), and there was no sense of danger from the combat. The fusion system can make you so absurdly strong that I had to impose limitations to keep combat interesting (no freeze fusion effects, limited food use, 2* armor max (1 upgrade), no more than 1 sage active), and even then it felt like I had to really mess up to die, barring 2 areas in the depths I found (a superboss, and an arena of semi-superbosses). Granted Breath of the Wild had the same issue. But the scale of Tears of the Kingdom made boring combat more glaring, because there is so much to explore and so many ways to keep making yourself stronger...but why, when there is nothing to challenge you and give you the feeling of "oh wow, I'm not sure if I'd survive that, I'd better come back to this area later." The first 30 hours or so did have that feeling though, and were among the best of any game I've ever played. Overall this game is a true masterpiece, don't get me wrong. Nintendo's ability to throw fun puzzle dynamics into every boss fight was really impressive. The building system and the physics involved were incredibly well designed, and I'm amazed it all worked perfectly without any bugs. Though the building system did feel a bit slow and clunky, sometimes frustratingly so, the novelty and creativity it added to exploration were so enjoyable that the occasional minor setback was instantly forgiven and not bothersome. The amount of quests and rewards to get was impressive, almost too much! If that is possible. I do wish the combat in these games could reach the same level of excellence that every other element of their design has. Maybe some day.

[@limonade2684]

I am a weak gamer and I was really challenged. There are many good games like Elden Ring, that I can not play. I get frustrated and stop the game after 30 minutes for good. In TOTK I was able to finish the game with videos and an online map. 750 hours of fun for 60 $ were great.

[@Terron29]

Thoroughly enjoying it. 130 hours into it so far. It does have some issues. I really dont like how the sages follow you around and you have to manually run up to them to activate abilities. I dismiss them all except for the wind one. They get in the way a lot. Needs more enemy variety too and imo the music focuses too much on ambience. I want more classic upbeat zelda music while exploring especially on horseback. Lastly the game needs bigger more complex dungeons. The desert one was good but all were too short and simple imo. Great game despite all this though! Maybe 8/10.

[@NostalgiaGaming]

Breath of the Wild and this game are so interesting to me - they are these incredible experiences that totally capture your attention until the very end. But they feel so overwhelming that I don’t think I personally can ever play them again after my first playthrough; whereas a game like Ocarina of Time, I’ll play through countless times. It’s a weird feeling to know that I revere these games in such high regard but essentially can’t go back to them (again, just me personally). Having an UNBELIEVABLY good time playing TOTK though. Edit: I’m also excited to see what direction the next game goes. Maybe a return to the more traditional item-based linear formula or a fusion between the two. Also wouldn’t mind a return to a smaller, but more densely populated world.

[@puppy14]

After playing Xenoblade 3, this game is a cakewalk when it comes to being overwhelming. I’m loving the exploration and discovery.

[@Beavernator]

This game was like a vacation for me after getting 100% in Xeno3 and its DLC...

[@puppy14]

@@Beavernator Tell me about it. I’m just coasting around finding Koroks and doing little side jobs. Xenoblade 3 was a wild ride (pun intended), and this is a nice little stroll. Back to back masterpieces too, I’m in gaming heaven.

[@summerycast7936]

Honestly, I'm getting iffy about XC3. Reached the point where I found a colony in what seems to be an abandoned ruins. I think the reason of me having a hard time getting back into it are the methods of travel, and the story not quite clicking with me. I still love the party banter, but give a hoot about Noah's speeches. Also, the combat is great, but setting up a party with new accessories and such... Yeah, a good 10 minutes of my time on the menu. Using the preset party saves is helpful to some degree. Got any advice?

[@puppy14]

@@summerycast7936 Ack, sorry, my favorite part of the Xenoblade series is messing around with the party, accessories, abilities and arts, and finding a good mix that gets me to barely beat enemies in Hard mode. If you get to a point where you can explore and find Heroes, that may break up the monotony? I loved it from the start, but I’m ultra biased towards Xenoblade because it’s my favorite series of all time. Eunie ends up being the best, with Lanz being second best. The story picks up after a while, at least for me, and when the “Weight of Life” song cutscenes hit, I was hooked. Hope it picks up for ya.

[@taughtbytragedy]

Reviewers rush this game too much. Im playing this game for months. Here’s my pattern: catch grasshoppers by cutting grass, make stamina elixirs, drink elixir to go further when finding those jumping checkpoints. This is how i easily understand the map and reveal more and more of it. Not overwhelming when youre not rushing it. I pity reviewers who have to go through the game for days/weeks. I love playing an hour or two snd let it sit. Make yourself excited to play it again.

[@iropyro3095]

This game is an absolute masterpiece. 10/10. Game of the Year.

[@Alex-1776]

there are a million distractions, but the game guides you through the entire main storyline. I dont think there was ever a point where when I was ready to continue the main storyline that I didn't have a general idea of where I needed to go. I do wish that the cutscenes were somehow locked in a linear way tho, it's so easy to spoil things early in the game.

[@NEO-jy3yn]

There’s is such a thing as too much freedom when it comes to video games. I miss the old Zelda.

[@shawnp4155]

I agree and in a odd way this style seems "lazy". Especially coming off the heals of BOTW, which at least had the novelty of open world. This game 12hrs in just feels redundant.

[@infinitecurlie]

I feel like people who are lamenting about the old Zelda have valid feelings but this is how Zelda is gonna be now especially with the popularity of open world games. I can understand missing old Zelda. But if it's bothering you that much then it's probably time to move on from the franchise. (And btw I've been playing since a link to the past but I love the direction that Zelda is going in and I can always go back and play OOT, MM, etc).

[@shawnp4155]

@@infinitecurlie That's the silliest rationalizing I here often with these last two titles. The Switch franchise relies heavily on nostalgia and the "Zelda" title attached to it. You take away the Zelda association that gives these last two games the bump it does, and call it whatever and nobody is calling it "game of the year", "masterpiece", or "10/10. Without the Zelda name attached to it, it becomes nothing more than an open world puzzle 5/10 game.

[@Stephaniepasqualino-de6qy]

Ridiculous statement. If it’s not your thing, fine, but pretending this game isn’t objectively incredible in so many ways and is only popular because it’s Zelda is stupid. The best selling Zelda before BOTW sold under 10 million lol. People who never gave a shit about Zelda are going nuts for it.

[@NEO-jy3yn]

@@Stephaniepasqualino-de6qy my opinion is my opinion, stop white knighting because someone doesn’t agree on your take.

[@Dorff_Meister]

I'm spending a lot of time just Shrining and Towering, but I have completed two of the Regional Quests and am about to start my third (Fire). Loving it all.

[@The_Ostrich]

The only bad thing about this game are the dungeons, specially the desert dungeon was straight out of a N64 game. The fire and water dungeon were fine I guess. The divine beasts in BotW were a lot better though and much more memorable.

[@nasis.]

Agreed

[@alexin3dable]

Water Temple was the worst imo.

[@Fasneocroth]

I agree, and was hoping for more interconnected floors and rooms like retro Zelda. Instead, so far in Wind and Water temples anyway, the puzzles have just been like 4 self-contained open-air shrine puzzles.

[@Krytern]

So an empty boring world isn't a bad thing?

[@duke_8747]

Nah I did not like the divine beasts at all. I think the dungeons were a huge step in the right direction

[@BrendanPatrickGrace]

I’m one of the opposite people who goes ‘man, I’m enjoying taking my time in Tears’. I had the game for years but just never got the urge to finish it until marketing for Tears really kicked in. I finished BOTW in about 40-50 hours with getting stuck a bunch and needing some nudges. Finding those nudges online was actually one of my biggest complaints with BOTW, but they do solve it in Tears. They have 2 specific characters, one hits you over the head with a rock hammer and one more nudges you with a soft Korok leaf wind about where to go. And for that, I’m at least grateful. Other than that, Tears is incredible. The game is Nintendo at their A+ or maybe even A game, and it almost feels like no one can touch them at this level, which is kinda scary. Spoilers for who those folks are if you want to know- Purah literally told me when I asked her ‘hey, what’s up?’ sort of question where to go next. She literally made me pull out the Purah pad, put a marker on my map and said ‘go to this place’ to further the main story. Impa gives you two options for clues on the order of the Tears, one is inside the Forgotten Temple on the walls, the second is just talking to her after you find the first, second, etc. she tells you ‘we’ll be here’.

[@S1L3NTDr460n]

Probably a super unpopular opinion but I personally hate the direction they went with zelda. I've loved the franchise to death from LttP up until BotW, which BotW I still somewhat enjoyed [as a Skyrim clone with a zelda skin on it], since I do like skyrim, but when I beat the game, it left me with this itch to play an actual Zelda game. Like wow that was a cool and fun Skyrim game, but I kinda wanna play a ZELDA game now. Cuz...that wasn't one. And TotK is even worse in that direction, it's basically Skyrim+Minecraft, leaning fully into the crafting/creation system. Like, I don't want to play minecraft. I don't want to spend 20 hours f*cking around with sticks and rocks and saying "look, I made a gundam out of wood that walks around and shoots things!". I want to play a ZELDA game. I want a tight-knit game with clear direction and characters, wonderful story, like TP/LttP/OoT/MM etc. Not a giiiggaannnttiiiccc open sandbox to play minecraft in. I don't care about building weapons. I don't care about building giant vehicles and mechs that completely break the immersion of being in the zelda universe. I don't CARE about all the "cool sh*t" you can do for hours that has nothing to do with the story. I. Just. Want. To. Play. The. Game. Zelda's not the only game that's done this kinda thing either. It feels like every modern game HAS to be skyrim/minecraft by law these days. Games like assassin's creed, tomb raider, GoW, etc that used to be amazing and exciting 12-20 hr experiences are now 50-100+ hr overblown grind-fests with crafting, enchanting, gem-socketing, different rarities of gear to grind for, loot,...basically world of warcraft. Like...I don't CARE. If I wanted to play skyrim or WoW, I would do that (and I have, and I liked those games, but that's not what I'm here for NOW). It's just kinda sad to see franchises I used to absolutely adore just homogenize into the same thing as everything else and lose everything I liked about them. And with Aonuma/Nintendo basically stating in interviews that the BotW format is pretty much going to be what zelda is going forward, it just...kinda breaks my heart. Many of the earlier zelda titles are some of my favourite games of all time, and "megantically-huge-open-sandbox-to-fucc-around-in-for-300-hours" just isn't want I want in a zelda game. Maybe it is for a ton of other people, but not for me, and many others. Guess all I can do is huff more hopium that something will maybe eventually come of the 2011 wii-u tech demo. That would be cool~ //end rant

[@Kade_Bauman]

I can completely relate to how you felt in the beginning. I have never even come close to feeling so overwhelmed by a game before I played TOTK. Like you said, it really started to hamper my experience for a few days after I did the opening section of them game. But, eventually I stopped having that completionism mindset, and let myself be okay with leaving some stones uncovered to explore later. I also stopped looking at the map so much, and just let myself navigate by sight and get a little lost. Both of those things helped me to regain my enjoyment.

[@bru__6804]

I just love the massive world they created with this game, I only have 45 hours and I have completed only 2 temples, looking forward to keep exploring this beautiful world and complete secondary quests because I genuinely found them fun lol

[@Kptanuki]

I completely agree. I still haven’t beat the game yet. I’m getting close to wanting to finish the story and take out Ganondorf. After playing it a few days I got frustrated because I felt like I was doing the same stuff and I took a couple days off from it. Then I kept thinking about it and couldn’t stop thinking about it. So I picked the controller back up and started falling in love with the game. Exploring and then pushing for the story.😊 Definitely one of the best Switch games ever made.

[@tor2919]

I love the breakable weapons. I dearly hope they’ll keep them forever. It’s hard to top the experience of Breath of the Wild because it was all new and revolutionary in so many ways. Tears of the kingdom is the ultimate iteration. It’s such an incredible insane game. Botw and Totk are the best games ever made. Really took Zelda to the next level and delivered on the promise of what Zelda can and should be. The only Zelda that has fulfilled how I dreamed and imagined Zelda when I played the The legend of Zelda in the late 80’s.

[@TearTheRoof0ff]

Coming from one of your older videos, it's striking how much you suit glasses.

[@DentyOne]

I never, not even once, felt like i wasn't having fun. Even when I wasn't sure what it was I needed to do, it never felt like a frustrating hump I 'needed to get over'. Just incredible from start to finish.

[@arturius9715]

It's one of those games where more does not equal better. If I spend 30 hours in game and have barely accomplished anything. That's not great. The only way that I would consider the ridiculous size of this game to be a good thing, is if all I ever played was Nintendo games and mainly Zelda when I do play

[@DentyOne]

@@arturius9715 Different experiences, different opinions. And to your final statement: I'm an old, multi-console gamer and have been since the first generation of console wars. My opinion is just simply different from yours.

[@jada8047]

This game to me is fun an frustrating

[@arturius9715]

@@jada8047 pretty much this

[@jean-francoisbergeron3595]

Thank you for this honest review of Tears of the Kingdom! I'm planning to buy the game soon, can't wait to discover this huge world!🙂

[@mingyuhuang8944]

This game is absolutely incredible. It's like an industrial revolution but in game form, truly groundbreaking

[@Boogeyman13666]

Hey Johnny, just wanted to say that you are my favorite video game youtuber. Your passion for video games makes me so proud to be a fan alongside you. Cheers from Chicago, heres to many more years.

[@theRealBobbyB23]

It's one of the best games I have ever played. Nostalgia in the future will put it even further ahead. How can they top this ?

[@stevenseufert2520]

With a hat. =P

[@ChrisRash]

Pet the dogs

[@michaellarson8224]

@@ChrisRash a sequel to majoras mask

[@bobking9212]

The fact you experienced ALL the Zelda series! Pretty much puts your positive words in granite! I am not frustrated with this game as I started with an idea or plan, certain armor upgrades thus locate and activate all fairy fountains! Fuse awesome weapons take on lynels get more awesome weapons, explore by accident along the way... etc next thing I know my Link is a real bad a#$!! In the making! I have to come close to finishing one of the most amazing games produced! Thanks for your amazing videos! Enjoy your games!