The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild was a groundbreaking game in the iconic series, taking players on a new adventure through the vast land of Hyrule. The game received widespread acclaim for its immersive open-world gameplay and innovative mechanics. However, one aspect of the game that has sparked much discussion among fans is its placement on the official Zelda timeline.
In a recent interview, series producer Eiji Aonuma and director Hidemaro Fujibayashi sat down to discuss the reception of Breath of the Wild and their approach to the timeline. Aonuma began by talking about the overwhelming positive response the game received, saying that the team was “overjoyed” by the reception. He also mentioned that he was particularly touched by the emotional responses from fans, noting that many players were moved to tears by the game’s story and world.
Fujibayashi added that he was delighted by the passionate fan discussions surrounding the game’s timeline placement. He explained that the team had deliberately chosen to leave the timeline ambiguous in order to give players the freedom to interpret the story in their own way. This decision, he said, was made in order to create a more immersive and personal experience for players.
The two also discussed their approach to the Zelda timeline in general, with Aonuma acknowledging that the timeline can be a source of confusion and debate among fans. He explained that while the team does have a rough timeline in mind when creating new games, they prioritize storytelling and gameplay over adherence to a strict timeline. He stressed that they want players to focus on the journey and the world of Hyrule, rather than on where each game fits into the timeline.
Fujibayashi added that the team is constantly looking for new ways to innovate and push the boundaries of the Zelda series, which can sometimes lead to unexpected turns in the timeline. He emphasized that the team’s main goal is to create experiences that resonate with players on a deep emotional level, regardless of where they fit in the timeline.
Overall, Aonuma and Fujibayashi’s discussion shed light on the thought and care that went into creating Breath of the Wild and their approach to the Zelda timeline. Their emphasis on storytelling, emotion, and player interpretation has resonated with fans, making Breath of the Wild a truly unforgettable game in the storied Zelda series.
