It wouldn't be a Nintendo console without a Zelda game, and the Nintendo Switch 2 continues this tradition with a surprising twist. During today's Nintendo Direct, we discovered that Koei Tecmo is developing a new installment in the Hyrule Warriors series: a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom titled Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment. This exciting new title is set to launch this winter.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment introduces a fresh narrative set in the ancient history of Tears of the Kingdom. The game features beloved characters such as Zelda, Rauru, Sonia, and other Secret Stone holders. The storyline delves into Zelda's actions during the events of Tears of the Kingdom after she travels back in time. Here, she allies with the last of the Zonai, including Rauru, his sister Mineru, and his wife Sonia, to combat Ganondorf and his forces.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 - Hyrule Warriors Age of Imprisonment

4 Images

The trailer showcased the unique abilities of these champions, highlighting Mineru's mech, Zelda's magical prowess, Rauru wielding a distinctive sword-spear, and brief glimpses of other Sacred Stone wielders in action.

This marks the third entry in the Hyrule Warriors series, following the original Hyrule Warriors and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity. The latter served as a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and was praised for its narrative twists. Age of Calamity received a 9/10 from us, described as "a joy to play and discover" and "a blast from start to finish." It will be fascinating to see if Age of Imprisonment follows suit with its own unexpected turns.

For a full recap of all the announcements from today's Nintendo Direct, click here.