Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has no shortage of epic and imposing enemies for Link to fight. From the coliseums in the Depths to the tallest sky island, Hyrule is stuffed w??ith fun combat encounters.

But which creatures and face-offs are the absolute best? It’s all, of course, somewhat subjective based on the player. However,? in this complete TOTK enemies tier list, we’re going to do our best to sort all the adversaries objectively. Legendary clashes, cool visual designs, and neat interactions with systems like Fuse will push enemies further up the list.

Warning: Major spoilers for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom follow.

S Tier: The Most Epic Showdowns in Hyrule

D??emon King Ganondorf, Flux Construct, Gleeoks, Colgera, Phantom Ganon, Demon Dragon, Bokoblin

The top category in this tier l?ist is made up almost entirely of memorable boss fights with great visuals and mechanics. However, there’s one exception. The classic Bokoblin is a staple of Hyrule with a weirdly charming design that does a solid job of introducing the game’s basic fighting? mechanics. Meanwhile, bosses like the Flux Constructs and the Gleeoks look cool and give players tons of interesting ways to defeat them using the new Ultrahand and Ascend powers. 

Boss Spotlight: Ganondorf and the Demon Dragon

Tears of the Kingdom nails the epic showdown with Ganondorf from start to finish. Whether you’re facing off against his phanto??m visage in the throne room or his final draconic transformation at the end of the game, you’re in for an epic fight that gets the blood pumping. The Demon King’s flurry r?ush abilities made for the perfect foil to Link’s own combos. When you see the boss’s health bar break the normal limit and reach for the far right side of your screen, you know you’re up against an evil like no other.  

A Tier: Flurry Rush at the Ready

Boss Bokoblin, Gi?bdos, Captain Constructs, Lynels, Master Kohga, Frox, Moldugas, Marbled Gohma, Mucktorok, Gloom Spawn

Some of the best fights in Tears of the Kingdom are the ones that seem challenging at first but then get progressively easier once you discover that there’s not just one way to defeat the monster, but many. Lynels, Captain Constructs, Gloom Hands, and the Marbled Gohma boss fight are all great examples of this. There are also plenty of fun way??s to expe?riment with Fuse when taking down Boss Bokoblins, Molduga, and Frox. Mucktorok, the Water Temple boss, also belongs in this tier because of the epic low-gravity arena in which you face him.

Boss Spotlight: Master Kohga

The leader of the Yiga Clan and his horde of misappropriated Zonai devices is a more than worthy showdown for Link. In fact, Tears of the Kingdom improves upon the encounter with this enemy from Breath of the Wild in almost every way. Instea??d of a? single fight that’s solvable with a few arrows, you now have to track Kohga through the Depths. Every time you find him, he gets progressively stronger and busts out a new set of moves.

B Tier: Worth Wasting Bomb Arrows On

K??eese, Evermean, Moblins, Horriblins, Zonai soldier construct, Yiga blade master, Hinox, Stalnox, M??oragia, Queen Gibdo

The middle section of this tier list includes all the monsters that have cool designs but offer more simplified fights. Horriblins look terrifying, but once you learn how to drop them over water, they become trivial. Moblins, Hinox, and Stalnox, are also rather intimidating and fun to fight but don’t bring as much tension as the monsters in the A and S tiers. Evermeans give yo??u a good jump scare the first time you find them, but after that, you know what to expect. I’ve also put Kee??se in this tier simply for the quality of their fuse drops. 

Boss Spotlight: Queen Gibdo

The final boss of the Lightning Temple is a challenging fight for aspiring heroes of Hy??rule. The queen looks like a suitably terrifying foe, and during the first phase of the fight, there are plenty of fun options for taking her down. However, it’s the second phase of the fight that knocks this boss down from the higher tiers. Using Riju’s lightning power is the easiest way to take out the purple nests in the chamber’s four corners. However, the power takes a long time to recharge, and I found myself running away ??from attacks and kiting mobs while waiting for it to come back.

C Tier: Master Sword Fodder 

Like Like, Aerocuda, L??izalfos, Wizzrobes, Battle Talus, Yiga Foot soldier, Seized Construct

Enemies in this tier are decent enough mobs to fight occasionally but not otherwise particularly noteworthy. Like Likes and Wizzrobes require only a few arrows to take down. Aerocudas, while at least offering viable fuse drops, have only basic move patterns. Y??iga footsoldiers have a cool design, but you usually get rid of them quickly before they do anything interesting. As for Lizalfos, those guys are just plain pesky.

Boss Spotlight: Seized Construct

The final boss of the secret fifth sage temple in the Depths was something I admittedly found a bit disappointing. In this fight, Link has to use the spirit sage’s power to step into a boxing ring-?like arena and defeat the construct. While this might sound cool in principle, the mechanics instead felt clunky. Additionally, there wasn’t anything particularly visually interesting in the boss fight compared to Colgera, for example. Perhaps I was also expecting something a bit darker in theme, considering how the game set up this fight’s mysterious location in th??e Depths. 

D Tier: Blobs, Globs, and Rocks

Chuchu, Rock Octorock, Pebb??lits, Stone Talus, Sludge Like, Little Frox ?? 

Not every enemy in Tears in the Kingdom is an automatic home run. Some are just blobs of goo that get in your way when you’re trying to make it to your next quest objective. This category is made up of unfortunate, uninteresting creatures that don’t offer much in terms of either battle prowess or drops. J??ust knock them on the head a few times with a stick, and you’ll be on your way without a second thought.

The post T?ears of the Kingdom enemies tier list: Complete Ranking (TOTK) appeared first on Destructoid.

There's no denying that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is one of the best and most successful video games released in 2023, and it's evident that g??amers still recognize its high qu??ality to this day, late into 2024.

Japan's Computer Entertainment Supplier's Association (better known as CESA) recently announced?? all the winners?? of the Japan Game Awards 2024 during this year's Tokyo Game Show, and, to the surprise of many people, Tears of the Kingdom ended up winning not one, ??not two, but three different awards in what ended up ??being an excellent night for Nintendo.

Per Siliconera, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom won the Best Sales Award (which makes sense, cons??idering it sold more than 19.5 million units), one of eleven Awards for Excellence and the Grand Aw??ard, which would be the equivalent to Game of the Year in the American Game Awards. The director of the game, Hidemaro Fujibayashi, and series producer, Eiji Aonuma, went up to the stage in order to thank CESA and take home their third and final statue.

These are far from the only accolades that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom received since its initial release on May 12, 2023. It also won the award for Best Action/Adventure Game in The Game Awards 2023, it was named Best Adventure Game of the Year in the 27th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards, and it received an award for Technical Achievement in BAFTA's 20th British Academy Games Awards. Not to mention, Destructoid also named it the Best Overall Game of 2023.

The Legend of Zelda franchise is experiencing one of its best moments

Nintendo has recently opted for a format of yearly releases for The Legend of Zelda series and, to the surprise of most fans, it ended up working extremely well for both the company and the IP. From 2020 to 2024, it released a slew of quality titles, from long-awaited remasters like Skyward Sword HD to exciting spin-offs, like Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity.

But, as the next mainline entry, Tears of the Kingdom was without a doubt the most anticipated game in the series for multiple years and, fortunately for fans, it successfully delivered on all of its promises. And if all that wasn't enough, Nintendo recently released The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, a creative new game that is already receiving positive reviews all over the internet. The Zelda franchise is going through one of its?? best eras, and fans are certainly enjoying it.

The post The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is?? the big winner of the Japan G??ame Awards 2024 appeared first on Destructoid.

When a creative's imagination is the limit, there?'s no shortage of attractive characters in gaming. And when you spend hours, sometimes even dozens or hundreds of them, staring at a protagonist, villain, or trusted companion, it never hurts for them to? be easy on the eyes.

Sometimes, I find myself a bit head-over-heels for a few of them, reminiscing about the handsome men I've met on a few of my journeys. While I'm not sure I could fully commit to a relationship with a troubling?? few of these guys—regrettably, I can't fix him—I’d definitely take them out for a nice dinner date. 

10 Video game guys I'd take to dinner, and (maybe) a movie

10. James Sunderland from Silent Hill 2

Whether it be just dinner or grabbing coffee, any kind of commitment to James is probably a bad idea, given his track record with Mary in Silent Hill 2. He may have seen it as a mercy killing, or purely out o?f selfishness to seek a life free from burden, but either way, it's not exactly something I'd be willing to look past.

It's just that I think James could really use the pick-me-up a nice dinner date would give him after the whole being stuck in a haunting mind hell ordeal, you know? Plus, he’s quite easy on the ??eyes, and dependable if I’m being attacked by the horrific creatures of the eerie town of Silent Hill. So, I’ll take him on a date, but j?ust one.

9. Sephiroth from Final Fantasy VII

Look at that flowing, gorgeous hair. The cool black jacket, the sword, the wings? Obviously, I would say ye??s to a date with Sephiroth if he asked me, just based on aura alone. You can’t ignore him.

However, this i??s the only character on this list I probably wouldn’t even enjoy the date with. He’s so consumed by his hatred that I don’t think he could put i?t aside for even one meal at a cozy bistro in the city. But, seeing as he’s just so pretty, he had to be here.

8. Johnny Gat from Saint’s Row

Johnny Gat is a murderous gang banger to the extreme. But, he’s a handsome murderous gang banger. And he’s pretty fun to chill out with when he’s just hanging out at the crib with his fellow Saint?s. 

Sadly, Johnny also lost his girl Aisha to the Ronin in Saint’s Row 2, so I’m not so ?sure he could protect me from those same rival gangs. That’s why a relatio?nship with him would never work out; it's just not practical. Surely, they won’t target me if we go on just one date, right?

7. Solid Snake from Metal Gear

We love a man who can get things done, and nobody does it as well as Snake. This?? is the man who makes the impossible, possible after all. Giv??e Snake a mission, and you can bet it’ll be completed, whether it’s a highly classified operation or loading the dishwasher.

Unfortunately, the rapid aging business puts a huge damper on things. Does he still deserve love? Yes. Could I provide it, knowing his lifespan is dramatically shorter tha?n mine thanks to all the espionage? Probably not?. So a few nice dates we both enjoy, but move on from, will work.

6. Arthur Morgan from Red Dead Redemption 2

You could just tell me I’m going on a date with a real cowboy, and I’d be there. But Arthur Morgan? He’s not only a cowboy but a true Wild West heartthrob. We could hunt for dinner ourselves, then enjoy it under the sta??rs by a roaring campfire.

However, there’s one major issue with Arthur: spoiler alert, he’s dead. I'm not really looking to go back in time, either, especially a time so far back I'm lacking modern comforts. And seeing as how t?he game takes place in 1899, it's just a non-starter. Time may keep us apart, but I can dream about the lovely dinner I’d enjoy with this cowboy.

5. Master Chief from Halo

The suit stays on. I don’t need to know what he looks like underneath it. It doesn’t matter. This man almost single-handedly saved all of humanity from both The Covenant a?nd T?he Flood—that alone would get me out the door and sat in an Olive Garden booth.

Master Chief also has one of the smoothest voices in the history of gaming, and you just know an intimate conversation with him would be music to the ears. I don’t think marrying him would be ideal, though, since if anyone’s committed to their job, it’s him. I’ll go on as many dates with him as I can before the UNSC calls him ba??ck yet again.

4. Wyll from Baldur’s Gate 3

I’m sick of everyone talking about Astarion and Gale all the time. Yes, they’re lovely, but you’re missing out on this hunk of a Warlock, Wyll. This folk hero is kind, brave, and will do anything to keep Baldur's Gate safe. Plus, he’s got the whole tortured, dark secret tha?t haunts him every day going for him. All the makings of a? great romantic interest.

Now, there is the whole Mizora soul-binding thing to cont?end with, and I understand how that will turn people away. However, I can look past it. Not forever, but at least for a few romantic steak dinners before we part ways.

3. Link from Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

He’s the Hero of Hyrule and nearly every gamer girl’s first crush, so, obviously, I would take Link out to dinner. Even better, he can just cook dinner for us since he’s got the? skills to make things like meat pies in a single cooking pot. There’s a reason nearly everyone in Hyrule is thirsting over him during the E??ra of the Wild.

There is one issue with Link though, and it’s that he’s very committed to someone already. He is so committed to Princess Zelda that he will, and has, died for her. I’m not willing to get between their relationship, and I don’t think I could. But I’m sure Link can spare me a few dates just to make my thirteen-year-old se??lf happy.

2. Waluigi from Super Mario Bros

I don’t ne?ed to ?explain this one. If you know, you know.

1. Leon Kennedy from Resident Evil

How could you look at this man and not want to take him on a date? He’s beautiful. He fights zombies. He’s got some of the mo??st luscious hair in all of gaming. Of course, Leon Kennedy is number one on this list because he’s clearly the best option.

Much like Li??nk, though, Leon seems to already be involved with Ada. Their relationship is far more complicated than Link and Zelda’s, but it’s pretty clear he’s not going to let her go. I? hope they can both be happy together, but only after I get my dinner date with Leon first.

The post ?10 Video game guys ??I’d take out to dinner (and maybe a movie) appeared first on Destructoid.

A recently released art book for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has r??evealed that it was planned to have a different title. And that original title might have spoiled one of the game's ??biggest twists.

Obviously, know that major spoilers for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will follow. If you?? haven't finished the game yet, read at your own peril.

Nintendo released the Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom "Master Works" art book in Japan on August 30, 2024. Thanks to this, Legend of Zelda fans got a fascinating first look at a great amount of concept art for what was one of 2023's biggest and most critically acclaimed games. However, a very interesting piece of new information didn't come from the art itself, but from something the producer of the game, Eiji Aonuma, revealed in the bo?ok.

This new tidbit was translated from the book b??y Nintendo Eve??rything and says that, according to Aonuma, the original title for the game was going to be The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Dragon. Those who have played the ga?me in its entirety will immediately recognize that this would have been a big problem, since this subtitle contains a huge story spoiler.

Aonuma agrees. "Letting it slip that? the Light Dragon is Zelda would have been a problem, and this had an effect on the title too," said Aonuma.

Aonuma and his team managed to prevent this spoiler with a clever change

The team struggled to figure out a way to incorporate the dragon imagery into the logo, without giving away the whole thing. Nothing good was coming to mind, until someone on the team suggested "Kingdom" and thus, they decided to change it to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.

“It felt like the phrase could connect to the Light Dragon to us, and we could use dragons in the logo. With the title decided, the logo finally became what it is now� said ??Aonuma.

It makes sense now, as Tears of the Kingdom went quite a while without an official subtitle. "As for why we’re holding back on the name, you’ll just have to stay tuned because, obviously, Zelda names are kind of important", said Nintendo's Bill Trinen back in June 2021.

Fortunately for Nintendo and for Legend of Zelda fans, the change from Tears of the Dragon to Tears of the Kingdom was a brilliant decision that let players experiment a perfectly crafted plot twist without suspect?ing anything.

The post Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom ?al??most had a title that gave away a big twist appeared first on Destructoid.

I've always found no death runs in video games too intimidating to attempt, but I feel like this self-imposed Legend of Zelda challenge is so extreme, even the most masochistic of pla??yers would t??????????????????????????hink twice about trying it.

Reddit user YaBoiNick87 (as spotted by GamesRadar) shared an intense challenge they intend to attempt that spans both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. And if they should die in the latter, they have to restart from the beginning of Breath of the Wild.

That rule alone is already maddening considering how massive both games are, but it'd probably be a bit more manageable if YaBoiNick87 didn't also task themselves with doing almost everything Breath of the Wild has to offer. Not only must they gather all the memories, complete every shrine and side quest, and get all the monster medals, they also need to complete the Master Sword Trials and Champions' Ballad DLC. Imagine doing all that, then having to do it all over again because you died during Tears of the Kingdom.

YaBoiNick87 shared the ruleset for feedback, asking if fellow fans had any other rule ideas. Unsurprisingly, several have suggested they remove the stipulation that dying sends you to the start of Breath of the Wild, believing it would simply make the whole experience not fun to play. Thankfully, this is something YaBoiNick87 is considering, saying, "We'll see how I feel after I get through BOTW."

Others have gone in the opposite direction and offered additional rules to up the difficulty even more. One suggested getting through all this without taking any damage (an idea even YaBoiNick87 thinks is too brutal), while another suggested no permanent health upgrades (meaning getting through both games with just three hearts) and no armour upgrades. The truly evil individuals,?? though, have suggested getting all the?? Korok seeds.

YaBoiNick87 has mentioned possibly recording or streaming their attempt and, as horrific as the challenge sounds, I sincerely hope they do, if only so they'll have tangible proof that they managed to complete it. If so, they'll absolutely deserve an acknow??ledgment in the Guinness World Records or something. I just hope they don't come out the other side hating both games.

The post This evil Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom fan challenge has you restart?? from Breath of the Wild if you die appeared first on Destructoid.

Taking a glance at the sky islands in Tears of the Kingdom, you might have noticed a massive storm that's looming over the bottom right section of Hyrule. Perhaps you've made? your way over to that section in the map, only to discover that there are islands hidden in the clouds.

Navigating said islands is a dangerous task due to the fact that Link can't see 10 feet in front of him. However, there's a way to remove the storm from the island, letting you explore this new location to your heart's content. Here's how to clear Thunderhead Isles and remove the storm in TotK.

How to Remove the Storm Over the Thunderhead Isles

To clear Thunderhead Isles, you'll need to progress the main quest in TotK. Eventually, you'll end up speaking with Tauro and Calip about the Zonai Ruins. After th??at, you'll need to put a Zonai Charge on an altar to clear Thunderhead Isles.

To begin the proc??ess of clearing up t??he Dragonhead island storm, you'll need to complete all four Regional Phenomona quests around Hyrule. Once this is complete, heading back to Lookout Landing will call you to complete the mini-dungeon in Hyrule Castle.

After you escape Hyrule Castle, you'll complete Regional Phenomena, and unlock the Quest, "Find the Fifth Sage". If you happened to stumble upon Kakariko Village during your travels throughout Hyrule or perhaps on your trek to Hateno Village, you might've noticed some ruins floating on the side of town. Before?? the completion of Regional Phenomena, you were banned from exploring them. Now with the quest being completed, you'll be able to c??heck them out.

Investigate the Floating Ring

Speak to Paya and Tauro in Kakarko Village, and they'll open the structures up for you to investigate. To locate these characters, head to the coordinates (1814, -0940, 0112.) Use the nearby Makasura Sh??rine to g?et there faster.

Going to this location will unlock the Secrets of the Ring Ruins quest in TOTK, which helps clear the Dragonhead Island storm.

Head up to the floating part of the Ring Ruins, and use Ascend to get inside the floating ring. You'll find a ladder just past Paya, Tauro, and Calip, ?taking you?? higher up the area. Just follow the pathway of the wooden platforms to reach the floating ruin.

Once inside, you'll find a slab with some text on it that T?auro and Calip we??re talking about when they let you investigate. Snap a picture of it with your camera, and show it to Tauro. After deciphering the message, they'll mention the Zonai Ruins in Faron. Tauro and Calip will make their way to the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower; follow them to continue the quest.

Finding "Dragon Land"

Once you've made it to the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower you can speak with Calip, who's mentioned that Tauro is headed towards Dracozu Lake. Walk southeast from the Skyview tower, you can spot Tauro's camp by the campfire, still lit. Its coordinates are (0939, -2524, 0009).

On the? table will be a journal, where you can find he's gone into the ruins across the water from where the campsite is. Inside, you'll find Tauro once more, who gives you a riddle to solve.

Secrets of the Ring Ruins Tauro riddle solution

Tauro will read aloud the riddle, stating, "Wear the electric garb hidden at the long-necked dragons along the wide-mouthed forest serpent," followed by "Offer a Zonai charge to the altar at the tail". The first part of the riddle will require you to wear a Charged Armor set, which can be found nearby.

Tauro will point you in the direction of a Zonai chest containing the Charged Shirt. What the game is asking you to do is make your way down the river (which looks like a dragon), find the complete Charged Armor set, and offer a Zonai Charge to the altar at the end.

Completing the Ritual

To complete the ritual in the Secrets of the Ring Ruins TOtK quest, you must locate the two other Charged sets: One set of T??rousers and a Headdress.

Secrets of the Ring Ruins Charged Trousers location

Start making your way down the river, staying on the right side. Be careful, as there are Lizalfos in the water. Eventually, you'll come across another set of ruins, much like where you met with Tauro. The coordinates of the first ruins are (0980, -2691, 0007). These are blo?cked off by some rock, which can be easily broken with a Rock Hammer or Bomb Flower. Inside the ruins, you'll find the second piece of the Charged Set: the Charged Trousers.

Secrets of the Ring Ruins Charged Headdress location

Continue working your way down the river until you see another set of ruins. This time, on the left side. Looking to your right, you might see some Zonai Soldier enemies waiting for a fight. Avoid them for now, and head into these new ruins for the Charged Headdress. The coordinates of the ruins are (0968, -2801, 0007).

Once all three pieces have been acquired, head out and make your way down the path right across from the ruins. Doing so will lead you to the Zonai Ruins, where the altar is. However, you'll have to fight some enemies along the way. You'll reach a clearing in the path where three Lizalfos will be hiding. Hidden along the stone wall behind them is another set of ruins. Their coordinates are (0686, -2743, 00014).

Head inside wearing the entire Charged Armor set and take out a Zonai Charge. Place the Zonai Charge on the altar in the back and watch as a cutscene plays out, clearing the storm from Th??underhead Isles. This lets you access the Thunderhead Isles and Dragonhead Island with clear vision! Check your sky view map (switch perspectives) to see the Thunder Isle map.

Calip and Taur??o will mee?t up with you once again, thus concluding the Secrets of the Ring Ruins main quest. You can also check out the new areas to unlock the Joku-usin Shrine.

The post How to Remo??ve the Storm Covering the Thunderhead Isles in Tears of the Kingdom appeared first on Destructoid.

The Gerudo Town secret shop is hard to find in Tears of the Kingdom if you don't know what you?'re looking for. Once you find the Gerudo Town secret shop, you'll be able to buy the Desert Voe armor. Here’s where to find the Gerudo Town secret shop in TotK.

Entering the Gerudo Town secret shop location with Ascend

As you enter Gerudo Town from the main entrance, turn immediately left. Keep moving forward until you see a well on the right. If you've cleared the Lightning Temple, there will be a waterfall falling into the area. Jump inside. Once you're in the well, quickly turn towards the wall with a torch. Climb up to the second tier. Crawl under the hole. You'll then see some pillars in front of Link. Go between the first and second set of pillars. You'll want to be at the coordinates -3789, -2918, 0043.

Now, use the Ascend ability. You'll find yourself in the Gerudo Town secret shop. The shopowners will be shocked to?? see you,?? but they'll love your patronage.

What's sold at the Gerudo Town secret shop?

The Gerudo Town's secre?t shop inventory has qui?te a lot of armor options. Here are all of the items you can buy in the Gerudo Town secret shop:

• Desert Voe Trousers
• Desert Voe Spaulder
• Snow Boots
• Sand Boots

Strangely in this desert civilization, there are Snow Boots for 1,300 rupees. They increase Link's movement speed while he's in the snow, in addition to 3 defense. On the other hand, you can also pick up Sand Boots for 1,200 rupees. They increase your movement speed while on the sand, as well? as providing 3 defense.

If you look on the opposite, you'll find the Desert Voe Spaulder for 1,300 rupees and Desert Voe Trousers for 650 rupees. They both provide heat resistance and 3 defense each. If you'd like to upgrade any of this equipment, go to a Great Fairy Fountain.

Radiant set TotK location

Although the Radiant set was previously found in the Breath of the Wild's Gerudo Secret Shop, they cannot be purchased here in TotK. Instead, you must go to the Armor Shop in Kakariko Village. Use the coordinates: '1854, -0982, 0119.'

At the Armor Shop, you can exchange a certain amount of Rupees for the Radiant set in TotK. They'll initially start out with a whopping 5,000 rupees each. However, those who complete the Gloom-Borne Illness quest can get it down to 800 rupees. Here is a list of Radiant items in the ToTK Armor Shop:

• Radiant Mask
• Radiant Shirt
• Radiant Tights

Radiant gear illuminates in the dark, producing a glow to make it? easier to see. With all three pieces, players will increase their Bone weapon proficiency and earn a Disguis??e effect with Stalkoblins, Stalmoblins, and Stalizalfos.

How to enter the Gerudo Town secret shop without Ascend

After you've found the Gerudo Town secret shop, Greta will now allow you to access it without Ascend. You can find the door at the coordinates '-3785, -2941, 0043.'

Players will? likely have to use Ascend for the first time around, but after that, it should be smooth sailing.

The post How to get into t??he Gerudo Tow?n secret shop in Tears of the Kingdom (TotK) appeared first on Destructoid.

Much like the Legend of Zelda's Switch-era predecessor, Tears of the Kingdom features Hyrule besieged by numerous enemies and bosses. The new Depths introduce formidable foes like the Frox. To defeat i????t, Link must use bombs or arrows to break its defenses. Here's a map showing all 39 Frox locations.

All Frox Locations in Tears of the Kingdom

Froxes can only be found in the De??pths. Fortunately, they're extremely easy to find since they're out in the open. All you'll need to know is their?? coordinates. Here are all of the Frox locations in TotK:

1: Southeast of the Takaruk Lightroot, and southwest of the Kegopa Lightroot, you'll find an Obsidian Frox. It resides in the clearing below where Trotter's Downfall sits on the surface map. Its coordinates are (3036, -0867, -0512)

2: Heading northeast of the Korakut Lightroot, and southwest of the Nojoj Lightroot, you'll see a Blue-White Frox. The narrow passageway caused by the Hylia River and the Lanayru Wetlands will make it easy to spot this creature if you're flying by using a Hoverbike. Its coordinates are (1005, -0085, -0465)

3: You can find another Blue-White Frox just west of the Ancient Observation Deck and Tuft Canyon Mine. It's directly north of the wall that makes up Clarnet Coast and Aris Beach on the surface. If you're fast traveling, your best bet is to travel to the Mimufis Lightroot, and head southwest. Its coordinates are (2135, -3519, -0447)

4: Further west from this Frox, you'll find another Obsidian Frox. This one is located directly east of the Kohsustu Lightroot. In fact, it's so close you can see it from the Kohsustu Lightroot. Its coordinates are (0738, -3378, -0478)

5: A normal Frox can be found northeast of the Nikoshi Lightroot. You can reach it easier if you go directly north from Pappetto Grove. Its coordinates are (-0331, 3117, -0463)

6: There is another Frox just to the northwest of the previous one. It's found southeast of the Hyla Canyon mine, directly in the middle of four Zonai platforms. Its coordinates are (-0816, -2905, -0515)

7: Another Frox can be found northeast of the Kawatik Lightroot. However, you'll need to do some climbing to get to it. It's in a clearing to the right of where Spectacle Rock sits on the surface. Its coordinates are (-1851, -2712, -0580)

8: There's another Frox that can be seen directly north of Amakawis Lightroot. It's so close you can see it without having to leave the Lightroot, though just nearby is an enemy camp, so you'll need to be careful. Its coordinates are (-2456, -3257, -0470)

9: You can actually find another normal Frox directly to the east of the Amakawis Lightroot. However, you won't be able to see it from there. You'll have to do a little bit of walking. It rests in a clearing at coordinates (-2682, -3354, -0442)

10: The next frox can be found sitting northeast of the Gataharak Lightroot, and southwest of the Mihcihic Lightroot. Its coordinates are (-3392, -3241, -0467)

11: If you head northeast of the Michcihic Lightroot, you'll be able to find an Obsidian Frox. The quickest way to reach it is from the Abandoned Kara Kara Mine and the Tatayam Lightroot. Head southeast to coordinates (-3059, -2668, -0461) for a safe viewing angle.

12: You can find another Obsidian Frox at the bottom left corner of the map, directly below Gonatoyrim Lightroot. Just head directly south, and you'll run into it at coordinates (-4717, -3428, -0469)

13: The next Obsidian Frox can be found northwest of the Gonatoyros Lightroot and the Abandoned Gerudo Mine. It sits directly left of the Zonai platform north of the mine. Its coordinates are (-4045, -2564, -0491)

14: If you make your way to the Umamustor Lightroot, you'll be able to glide down to the Blue-White Frox to the southwest. Its coordinates are (-3551, -1544, -0805)

15: Head a litter further west to the Stamayam Lightroot, and you'll be within jogging distance of another Blue-White Frox. This creature resides in a clearing north of the Lightroot, and its coordinates are (-4709, -1308, -0940)

16: North of where Spectacle Rock resides in the overworld, just southwest of the Jadukakar Lightroot, you'll find another normal Frox. It sits in between the Kimakarut Lightroot and the Jadukakar Lightroot. However, you'll have to round the wall that makes up the Koukot Plateau if you want to reach it from there. Its coordinates are (-2184, -1949, -0584)

17: Heading to the east of the Great Abandoned Central Mine, and southwest of the Nuzimak Lightroot you can find a normal Frox. It sits in a clearing, and its coordinates are (-0320, -1851, -0462)

18: Northwest of the Nogukoyk Lightroot, just past a Zonai materials platform, you'll find another Frox. It's also southwest of the Nihcayam Lightroot, east of the top left corner of Lake Kolomo. Its coordinates are (-0759, -1131, -0470)

19: Northwest of the Stakijat Lightroot is another Frox. Though you can't see this one from the Lightroot itself, a short walk will spawn it in for you to see. Its coordinates are (0259, -0944, -0478)

20: You can find another Frox southeast of the Gadoshi Lightroot, and southeast of the Sinoyk Lightroot. They're about the same distance away, so either one is a optimal starting position. You'll find the Frox northwest of the top left wall of Lookout point, with the coordinates (-0576, 0188, -0465)

21: There's a Blue-White Frox in the depths underneath the leftmost island in Hyrule Castle Moat. However, the only way down to that part of the Depths is through the Hyrule Castle Moat West Chasm. Once you dive down there, head into the middle of the island, and you'll run into the Frox, it's extremely hard to miss. Its coordinates are (-083, 0792, -0465)

22: Northwest of the Kawakanis Lightroot, you'll find a Obsidian Frox. You won't be able to see the Frox from the Lightroot, but a short walk should put it right in your sights. Head to coordinates (-1314, 0983, -5451) to get a decent look at it.

23: To the east of the Rhoam Canyon Mine, you'll find another Obsidian Frox. This one requires you to take a bit of a walk, as it sits comfortably in the clearing underneath Ludfo Bog, and within the depths of the Seres Scablands. Its coordinates are (-2321, 0444, -0549)

24: Nestled directly between the Koro-Nui Lightroot and the Kataki Lightroot is a Blue-White Frox. It sits in the middle of the Gloom patches between both Lightroots, and it's out in the open, so you can't miss it. Its coordinates are (-3647, 0941, -0552)

25: Just south of the previous Frox's location, and northeast of the Sasag Lightroot, you'll find another Blue-White Frox. Its coordinates are (-3849, 0616, -0574)

26: Heading north on the map to the Nupisoyuat Lightroot, you'll want to climb up and head southeast. You'll find a large clearing and another Blue-White Frox. Just be sure to not jump down into the wrong arena, as just north of it is a boss battle with a Colgera. Its coordinates are (-4454, 2720, -0667)

27: For the next Blue-White Frox you'll want to head to the Worihas Lightroot. From here, you'll want to head northeast, towards the pit. However, you'll need to do a lot of climbing if you want to get there faster. Once you do make it to the top, glide down and you'll find the Frox at (-3258, 2644, -0888)

28: South of the Aduon Lightroot, you'll find yet another Blue-White Frox. Much like the last Frox, you'll have to do some climbing to reach it. However, its location is right next to an Ascend Point, where you can get out of the depths without fast travel. Its coordinates are (-2308, 2031, -0715)

29: You can find another Blue-White Frox just southwest of the Muihcoro Lightroot. It's a short walk without any climbing or jumping, so you'll be able to find it fairly easily. Its coordinates are (-1778, 2496, -0667)

30: West of the U-Nazohso Lightroot is once again a Blue-White Frox. Getting to it is as simple as heading west, and you'll find it at coordinates (-1696, 3468, -0677)

31: The next Frox is an Obsidian Frox. It can be found by heading to the Yisuayam Lightroot, and gliding down from the ledge on the Northeast. However, be careful, as there's an enemy camp right there, so you'll have to outrun them. Its coordinates are (-0998. 2814, -0619)

32: There's another Obsidian Frox that can be found southeast of the Yoyoyuik Lightroot, and northwest of the Netamnet Lightroot. It's also very close to the Elma Knolls Chasm. Its coordinates are (-0866, 1793, -0545)

33: There's a Blue-White Frox that can be found right at the bottom of the Hyrule Castle Moat East Chasm. Down in this singular cell of the Depths, it's very easy to come across. The Apapes Lightroot also resides down there, its coordinates are (0253, 0887, -0473)

34: You can find a Obsidian Frox northeast of the Nikakik Lightroot. It's also southwest of the Drenen Highlands Chasm. If you're heading there via the Nikakik Lightroot, you'll need to do a hefty amount of climbing. Remember, Ascend is your best friend! Its coordinates are (-0179, 2912, -0616)

35: Making your way to the Katenim Lightroot, you'll find a Obsidian Frox to the southeast. It's so close, you should be able to see it right from the Lightroot's location. Its coordinates are (0493, 3457, -0592)

36: From the Kawamit Lightroot, there's a normal Frox to the northeast. However, since this location is close to Death Mountain, and by proxy the Fire Temple, you'll need some Flamebreaker Armor if you don't want to burn up. It's a short climb from the lightroot. Glide down into the clearing and you'll find the Frox. Its coordinates are (2030, 1691, -0755)

37: You can find an Obsidian Frox south of the Anonisik Lightroot, and northwest of the Uinoj Lightroot. However, you'll have to do a bit of climbing up both if you want to make it to the boss. Its coordinates are (2545, 0844, -0501)

38: Just south of the Kawikatisar Lightroot, you'll find another Obsidian Frox. To reach it, it's as simple as just heading south until you run into it. Its coordinates are (4125, 1093, -0687)

39: The final Frox (which is an Obsidian Frox) can be found southeast of the Akinatanis Lightroot, and directly within the East Akkala Plains Chasm. If you're diving from the Surface and looking for a fight with one of these baddies, this is the chasm to do it. From the Lightroot, it's a short climb, and a short run until you're face to face with it. Its coordinates are (3978, 2208, -0469)

Differences between Frox, Obsidian Frox, and Blue-White Frox

There are three variations of Froxes: regular Froxes, Obsidian Froxes, and Blue-White Froxes. The colors denote the strength of the enemy, with Blue-White Froxes having significantly more HP than regular Froxes. Obsidian Froxes are an intermediate between regular and Blue-White Froxes. The enemies also have different drops (Frox Fang, Obsidian Frox Fan??g, Blue-White Frox Fang), which may be relevant if you want a specific monster part. Regardless of how hard they are to defeat, you can use the same strategy against all three varieties.

How to beat Frox in TotK

Start by keeping your distance from the enemy, which will give you more time to dodge its attacks. To defeat a Frox, you need to destroy all of the rocks on its back. This is made significantly easier by stunning the Frox. There are a few ways to stun a F??rox:

• Shoot its eye with an arrow.
• Shoot/throw a bomb flower into its mouth while it's inhaling.
• Drop a time bomb Zonai device while it's inhaling. (Be sure to run so you don't get swallowed yourself!)

Once the Frox is stunned, run up its arm onto its back and start smashing the ore nodes there. Blunt weapons like clubs, hammers, and maces are more effective at breaking rocks. After a while, the Frox will throw you off, at which point you can repeat the process of stunning it, running onto its back, and breaking t??he rocks.

The post All Frox locations map Tears of the Ki??ngdom (TotK) appeared first on Destructoid.

Tears of the Kingdom's house-building system isn't too complex and there aren't many pieces to play around with. Howe?ver, with a little creativity, it is possible to make a home worthy of Hyrule's greatest guardian.

If you need a little inspiration, try these house designs in Tears of the Kingdom.

6. The Cottage

Not every home has to be an architectural masterpiece. For players low on Rupees, or ??for those who just want to keep things simple, this design is perfect for you??.

To craft it, merge a Foyer with a Weapons Stash Room. Add a Paddock to the side to keep your horses. To make the hom??e prettier, add a Flower Bed to the front and on the roof alongside a Garden Pond. Lastly, add a staircase to the back to get to the roof easily.

5. The Ranch

If you care about horses, try building this design. It is a variation of the Cottage but has two stables that stand alo??ne. Add a Furnished Angled Room to the side of the house, along with a Garden Pond and Flower Bed, so that Link has a lovely place to admire his horses from.

4. The Open-Plan House

?This design is for pla?yers looking for an outdoorsy feeling. It takes advantage of the fact that Link can build homes without walls. Form a courtyard out of your desired rooms, but don't forget to add an Indoor Staircase. Instead of stairs, you can also rely on Ascend to get between floors. Add a Paddock to the side, along with some Flower Beds to make things aesthetically pleasing.

3. The Bachelor Pad

It is possible for Link to live like a king with this design inspired by Reddit user u/pensenuate. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but it is very cozy on the inside. On the first floor, attach a Kitchen??, Gallery, Indoor Staircase, and Furnished Square Room to a Patio.

On the second floor, add a Bedroom, two Furnished Angled Ro??oms, and two Weapons Stash Rooms. The exterior of the home can be im?proved by adding Garden Ponds, Flower Beds, and Paddocks.

2. The Penthouse

One of the downsides to the houses in Tears of the Kingdom is that they don't have windows, which can make the interiors feel claustrophobic. Fortunately, it is possible to build a luxurious home with a view thanks to a trick by Reddit user u/IronKnuckleSX.

All you ne??ed? to do is add Paddocks to your top floor, and you can have breakfast while watching over Tarry Town.

1. A place to relax

This house design is a personal favorite in Tears of the Kingdom, as it provides a lovely space for Link to relax. To build it, simply create a single-story home similar to the Cottage. At the side of the house, attach a Blessing Room, Kitchen, and Bedroom. Have the rooms face a Garden Po??nd or a Flower Bed.

There isn't much customization available, which is disappointing in a game that lets players fuse random items to make new weapons. Nevertheless, don't let this st??op you from creating something you'll be happy to return to after a long day of monster hunting.

How to build a house in TotK

To unlock the house-building feature in Tears of the Kingdom, you must do the following tasks:

• Complete Mattison's Independence quest
• Speak to Rhondson to purchase the dream house for 1,500 Rupees
• Achieve the Home On Arrange quest

After you complete Mattiso??n's Independence, you can talk to Rhonds??on at Tarrey Town:

You'll then trigger the mission Home On Arrange, where you can use the Rasitakiwak Shrine to fast-travel. Speak to Granteson to obtain two rooms. You can build a house in Tears of the Kingdom through these steps:

1. Open the Right-Hand Ability by holding the 'L' trigger
2. Select Ultrahand with the 'R' stick
3. Grab the available room and drag it to the plot
4. Attach the room to any side with the 'A' button (after you've placed one unit down)

Place two rooms to satisfy the Home On Arrange quest in TOTK:

Talk to Granteson once more and tell him, 'I'm done building.' He'll inspect the house, but don't worry; he's not much of a harsh judge. After completing Home On Arrange, ??you'll be able to expand your property. Pur??chase more rooms from Granteson to completely deck it out.

All Tears of the Kingdom house units

Now, you'll have the power to build a house in Tears of the Kingdom by using Ultrahand to connect the rooms together. However, the structure features a maximum limit of 15 units. You can delete rooms by detaching them from the building and dragging them outside t?he rope barriers. Leave build mode, and the unit should?? now be in your store room with Granteson.

The post Best ho??use designs & ideas in Tears?? of the Kingdom (TotK) appeared first on Destructoid.

Despite The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom being nearly a year old, imaginative fans are still using its Zonai devices and Ultrahand mechanic to craft incredible creations. For instance, someone recently managed to put together a recreation of the intro to the original 80s Transformers cartoon.

As spotted by Game Rant, the 33 second clip was shared to the Hyrule Engineering subreddit, where Tears of the Kingdom players post videos and screenshots of any in-game builds they're proud of, or ask for general building advice. This clip is simply an impressive feat of engineering, with it featuring 34 different builds according to creator Reddit user ReelDeadOne. Aside from making stand-ins for the Autobots and Decepticons, they built their vehicle forms, their weapons, and even the Transformers logo.

Unsurprisingly, all this took an incredibly long time. While the whole thing is less than a minute long, ReelDeadOne says?? they recorded 197 hours of gameplay for it. That's over eight days worth of footage. As for how they filmed it, they used Link as the camera, though obviously some editing in post was needed for certain shots. The part I find most impressive is when the Soundwave stand-in opens his chest to fire out Ravage and Laserbeak. Reel??DeadOne achieved this by "simply not attaching his legs and shoulder gun." I also love how they used minecarts for building Megatron's gun form.

ReelDeadOne has also shared a comparison video on YouTube, where you can see how well they recreated the framing of shots, as well as a blooper video showing all the times things went wrong. Those more interested in the creative process will want to watch this behind-the-scenes video showing how ReelDeadOne filmed everything.

This clip is not only a testament to the imagination of Tears of the Kingdom's players, but also to Nintendo's work on the game itself. After all, players wouldn't be able to make such amazing creations without the tools Nintendo provided. There's no telling when the next Zelda game will come out but, until then, I get the sense we'll still be seeing mind-blowing Tears of the Kingdom builds for a long time.

The post Original Transformers intro gets stunning shot-for-shot remake in Tears ??of the Kingdom appeared first on Destructoid.

Link can collect quite a few outfits in Tears of the Kingdom, and some offer desirable perks. The Yiga Clan armor is not to be missed for players who prefer a sneaky approach. The complete set is broken up into three parts, and they can all be obtained relatively easily. Here's how to get all of the Yiga Clan armor pieces in TotK.

How to get the Yiga Armor in TotK

It's best to start with the Yiga Armor, as it's the easiest one to acquire. This is the torso part of the outfit. The Yiga Armor is located in the Akkala Ancient Tech Lab, which is up the road from the East Akkala Stable. The Jochi-iu Shrine is a convenient point to begin the journey from.

At the tech lab, Link will encounter a pair of Yiga enemies. They are pretty fast, and they c??an teleport away before reappearing at close range. They can be slowed down with a Topaz-infused magic rod, or an arrow fused to Yellow Chuchu Jelly.

How to find the Yiga Mask in TotK

The next piece to acquire is the mask. The Yiga Mask is found to the east of Mount Hylia, in the Yiga Clan stronghold. The fort is surrounded by spikes, so it's best to glide in by jumping off the ledge of Mount Hylia. Alternatively, glide in from Gerudo Canyon Skyview Tower. Th??ere will be ?two Yiga clan members guarding the fort, but once they are defeated, the Yiga Mask is up for grabs.

How to find the Yiga Tights in TotK

The tigh?ts are the last part of the Yiga Clan armor. The Yiga Tights can be found in another Yiga Clain stronghold located in a cave. The exact coordinates are in the image above. Once again, there will be a pair of Yiga Clain members keeping watch. After defeating them, have Link use Ascend to access the next floor of the cave where the pants are located.

Once the Yiga Clan set ??is complete, Link can enter the Yiga Clan hideout.

What does the Yiga Armor do in TotK?

While the Yiga Armor doesn't provide much protection in the form of defense, it does greatly improve your stealth capabilities. The increased stealth it grants can be used to sneak up on enemie?s more efficiently and to get close to horses without spooking them. For combat, it requires a much more careful approach, but can be extremely effective in the right hands.

Above all, The Yiga Armor allows you to blend in with Yiga Clan members. With this ability, you can enter areas normally reserved for members of the clan. Just note? that Master Kohga will easily notice you don't belong, b?ut everyone else will be none the wiser.

Finally, if the bright red tights aren't quite to your liking, you can change the color of the outfit by visiting Kochi Dye Shop in Hateno Village. This won't affect the clan's at??titude towards you.

The post How to get the Yiga Clan?? armor set in Tears of the Kingdom (TotK) appeared first on Destructoid.

Yesterday, the BAFTA Game Awards 2024 honored the past twelve months of the industry. Hosted by comedian and former Taskmaster contestant Phil Wang, the show was a celebrati?on of what gaming has achieved recently.

As is typical with a lot of award shows, there were some varying attempts at humor. Which is a? shame because, knowing Phil's work, I suspect he was not responsible for a lot of the jokes written on the teleprom?pter.

Still, it didn't detract from the jubilation, as a lot of games released in the past year �as well as t?heir respective developers �were given their due credits. Below are the list of all the winners and nominations from this year's event.

Animation

• Alan Wake 2
• Hogwarts Legacy
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
• Super Mario Bros. Wonder
• WINNER: Hi-Fi Rush

Artistic Achievement

• Baldur's Gate 3
• Cocoon
• Diablo 4
• Finaly Fantasy XVI
• Hi-Fi Rush
• WINNER: Alan Wake 2

Audio Achievement

• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
• Hi-Fi Rush
• The Legend of Zelda: tears of the Kingdom
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
• WINNER: Alan Wake 2

British Game

• Cassette Beasts
• Dead Island 2
• Disney Illusion Island
• Football Manager 2024
• Warhammer Age of Sigmar: Realms of Ruin
• WINNER: Viewfinder

Debut Game

• Cocoon
• Dave the Diver
• Dredge
• Stray Gods: The Roleplaying Musical
• Viewfinder
• WINNER: Venba

Evolving Game

• Final Fantasy XIV Online
• Fortnite
• Forza Horizon 5
• Genshin Impact
• No Man's Sky
• WINNER: Cyberpunk 2077

Family

• Cocoon
• Dave the Diver
• Disney Illusion Island
• Hi-Fi Rush
• Hogwarts Legacy
• WINNER: Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Game Beyond Entertainment

• Chants of Sennaar
• Goodbye Volcano High
• Terra Nil
• Thirsty Suitors
• Venba
• WINNER: Tchia

Game Design

• Cocoon
• Dredge
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Viewfinder
• WINNER: Dave the Diver

Multiplayer

• Baldur's Gate 3
• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3
• Diablo 4
• Forza Motorsport
• Party Animals
• WINNER: Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Music

• Alan Wake 2
• Assassin's Creed Mirage
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
• WINNER: Baldur's Gate 3

Narrative

• Alan Wake 2
• Dredge
• Final Fantasy XVI
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Star Wars Jed: Survivor
• WINNER: Baldur's Gate 3

New Intellectual Property

• Chants of Sennaar
• Dave the Diver
• Dredge
• Hi-Fi Rush
• Jusant
• WINNER: Viewfinder

Performer In A Leading Role

• Amelia Tyler (Narrator in Baldur's Gate 3)
• Cameron Monaghan (Carl Kestis in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor)
• Neil Newbon (Astarion in Baldur's Gate 3)
• Samantha Béart (Karlach in Baldur's Gate 3)
• Yuri Lowenthal (Peter Parker in Marvel's Spider-Man 2)
• WINNER: Nadji Jeter (Miles Morales in Marvel's Spider-Man 2)

Performer In A Supporting Role

• Debra Wilson (Cere Juna in Star Wars Jedi: Survivor)
• Ralph Ineson (Cidolfus "Cid" Telamon in Final Fantasy XVI)
• Sam Lake (Alex Casey in Alan Wake 2)
• Tony Todd (Venom in Marvel's Spider-Man 2)
• Tracy Wiles (Jaheira in Baldur's Gate 3)
• WINNER: Andrew Wincott (Raphael in Baldur's Gate 3)

Technical Achievement

• Alan Wake 2
• Final Fantasy XVI
• Horizon Call of the Mountain
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Starfield
• WINNER: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

EE Players' Choice Award (public vote)

• Cyberpunk 2077
• Fortnite
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Lethal Company
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• WINNER: Baldur's Gate 3

Best Game

• Alan Wake 2
• Dave the Diver
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Super Mario Bros. Wonder
• WINNER: Baldur's Gate 3

BAFTA Game Special Award

• SpecialEffect, presented to founder and CEO Dr. Mick Donegan MBE for "outstanding contributions to games, film and television" in helping "people with even the most severe physical challenges to access video games."

The post BAFTA Game Awards 2024: ?All winners and nominations appeared first on Destructoid.

The various communities in Hyrule each have unique cultures, clothing, and even weapons. The Gerudo weapons ar?e ornate in addition to being quite powerful, as is the case with the Gerudo Scimitar and Gerudo Shield.

This guide explains where to find the Gerudo Shield and Gerudo Scimitar in Tears of the Kingdom.

Where to Find the Gerudo Scimitar in Tears of the Kingdom

The Gerudo Scimitar isn't too hard to find, especially if you start seeking it early on. The easiest way to score the Gerudo Scimitar is to simply deal with the Gerudo Regional Phenomenon. As part of the "Riju of Gerudo" questline, Link will help the ladies battle aga??inst Gibdos.

In preparation for the big battle against the invading Gibdos, Link will gain access to plenty of Gerudo weapons, including the coveted Gerudo Scimitar. The weapons can be found on a bench in Gerudo Town. The coordinates are: -3860, -2983, 0043.

Alternatively, Gerudo Scimitars can sometimes be found inside treasure chests dropped by Like Like in the Gerudo region. Moldugas also occasionally drop Gerudo S??cimitars, though they are hard?? to beat, and there is no guarantee of scoring one.

Lastly, hit up the enemy? camps in the Gerudo region, as some of them battle with Gerudo Scimitars. After the foes have been defeated, their weapons are yours t?o loot.

The in-game description for the Gerudo Scimater is "A decaying scimitar from the Gerudo region, it is designed for maximizing force. Attaching a m??aterial greatly enhances the material’s power but doesn’t add as much durability." It has a base damage of 8, and its special property is Durability Up+.

Where to Find the Gerudo Shield in Tears of the Kingdom

Like the Gerudo Scimitar, the Gerudo Shield can be obtained while preparing for the battle against the Gibdos. Once again, enemy camps ??in the Gerudo region are also a good option, along with the Lizalfos found throughout the desert.

The Gerudo Shield can also be obtained from a treasure chest in the 12 Ancient Altar Ruins located in the Gerudo Desert. The coordinates are: -2618, -3746, 0010. To get to the ruins, jump in one of the twelve pools of quicksand. There is also a Shock Like which potentially holds another Gerudo weapon. While you're u??nderground, don't forge?t to grab a Bubbul Gem from the Bubbul Frog.

Tears of the Kingdom describes the shield as: "The design of this metal shield has changed over time to match the ??Gerudo's sword-and-shield fighting style. It's favored by soldiers and travelers alike." Its base protection is 28.

What to Do With the Gerudo Shield and Gerudo Scimitar

The Gerudo S?cimitar and Gerudo Shield are great weapons that can and should be used during combat in TotK. They are also needed for a side qu??est which is unlocked after completing Riju's questline.

Defeat the Molduga at the Toruna Ruins to save Isha. Following this, she can be found again in Gerudo Town. There, she promises to make Link th??e Gerudo Scimitar of the Seven and the Daybreaker. However, he needs to provide some materials, including a Gerudo Shield and Gerudo Scimitar.

Gerudo isn't the only region with its own weapons. Head to the Zora Domain to get weapons that are substantially stronger when they're wet, or visit the Depths beneath Hyrule to score some? weapons that are still in ??a pristine state.

The post Where to find the G??erudo Shield & Gerudo Scimitar in Tears of the Kingdom (TotK) appeared first on Destructoid.

The world map in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is fascinating, as the game leaves much of it out of the critical path. This draws players to explore and keeps discussions alive weeks after launch. Here's where to find the Highland Stable in TOTK.

Where to find the Highland Stable in TOTK

The Highland Stable is south of Central Hyrule, deep into the Faron region, near the edge of the map, in the Fural Plain. The exact location of the Highland Stable can be found at coordinates 0523, -3431, 0047 and on the above map.

How to get to the Highland Stable

To get to Highland stable in TOTK, your best bet is through Lookout Landing, where you can catapult yourself south and glide down to the Popla Foothills Skyview Tower. Shoot out of that tower and continue your journey south. Unlike another stable in Faron, this one is easy to see at a glance from the sky. The Utsushok Shrine is just a jog away to the northeast, up on a hill.

As an aside, we recommend that you don't try and visit fringe locations really early into the game unless you have the Vow of Tulin. It'll make finding these far-off spot??s that much ?easier.

Quests involving Highland Stable (TotK)

Highla??nd Stable is a central location for a number of quest??s. Since you're in the area, you may want to consider these before moving on.

• The Flute Player’s Plan
• Bring Peace To Faron!
• An Eerie Voice
• Ride the Giant Horse (Ishokin Shrine)

Beedle at Highland Stable (TotK)

Here are all the items Beedle sel?ls at th??e Highland Stable in TotK:

• Arrow (singular) - (20 stock, 6 rupees each)
• Arrows (5-pack) - (1 stock, 30 rupees each)
• Ice fruit - (3 stock, 10 rupees each)
• Sunset firefly - (3 stock, 10 rupees each)
• Hearty lizard - (1 stock, 100 rupees)
• Octo balloon - (5 stock, 20 rupees each)

The post Highland Stable location & directions?? Tears of the Kingdom (Totk) appeared first on Destructoid.

The Famitsu Dengeki Game Awards 2023 happened on March 17 and while awards were spread over a wide number of games, one game stole the show entirely, taking home five of the 17 awards â€?Final Fantasy XVI. 

The Famitsu Degeki Game Awards are voted for by readers and run by Famitsu and Game Dengeki. While the new Final Fantasy didn't get as much hardware at other shows like The Game Awards, it's clearly garnered some lov??e in Japan. It took home awards for Best Graphics, Best Music, Best Voice Actor and Character for Clive, and Best RPG.

Meanwhile, Final Fantasy XIV took home the Best Online Game category, while The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom took the top prize of GOTY.

I?f you want to know who won what, or who just missed out, we’ve got all the details.

Famitsu Dengeki Game Awards 2023 winners and nominations

Game of the Year

Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Armored Core VI  Fires of Rubicon

Street Fighter 6

Resident Evil 4

Final Fantasy XVI

Scenario

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo

Final Fantasy XVI

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name

Graphics

Final Fantasy XVI

Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Music

Final Fantasy XVI

Octopath Traveler II

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Voice Acting

Yuya Uchida (Clive Rosfield/Final Fantasy XVI)

Yasuyuki Kase (V.IV Rusty/Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon) 

Takaya Kuroda (Kazuma Kiryu/Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man Who Erased His Name)

Character

Clive Rosfield (Final Fantasy XVI)

Zelda (The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom)

Iori Miyamoto (Fate/Samurai Remnant)

RPG

Final Fantasy XVI

Octopath Traveler II

Super Mario RPG

Action

Armored Core VI Fire of Rubicon

Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Street Fighter 6

Action Adventure

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

Resident Evil 4

Like a Dragon Gaiden: The Man who Erased His Name

Indie

Sea of Stars

World of Fear

Exit 8

Esports

Street Figher 6

Apex Legends

VALORANT

Most Anticipated

Metaphor: ReFantazio

Dragon’s Dogma 2

Eiyuden Chronicle: Hundred Heroes

MVC (Best Game Developer)

The Legend of Zelda Tears of the Kingdom

Naoki Yoshida

Street Fighter 6

Armored Core VI Fires of Rubicon

Game App

Honkai: Star Rail

Pokémon Sleep

Atelier Resleriana: Forgotten Alchemy and the Polar Night Liberator

Online Game

Final Fantasy XIV

Genshin Impact

Street Fighter 6

Rookie -

PARANORMASIGHT: The Seven Mysteries of Honjo

Master Detective Archives: Rain Code

WILD HEARTS

Famitsu Dengeki Special Award

Hi-fi Rush & Baldur’s Gate 3

The post Final?? Fantasy XVI nabs five awards at ?Famitsu Dengeki Game Awards appeared first on Destructoid.

With Link's Ultrahand, your creativity is tested in fun ways. Some players have spent enough time with the sequel to find as many glitches as possible and make the most of their exploration of Hyrule. Luckily for us, they have all been compiled in a handy document.

There are several reasons why you might want to rely on glitches and unintended ways of playing Tears of the Kingdom. These tricks can be used for speedruns, which is something players have consistently gotten better at. With the right glitch, you can have Link sprinting without depleting his stamin?a and needing a breath?er. This also eliminates the need to find shrines and upgrade his stamina wheel.

My favorite is the Spring Fall Damage glitch which allows you to fall from great heights without losing health or dying. It's performed by simply pressing ZR to enter bullet time when Link is about half??way down his fall. Following this, tap the B button and hold the forward one. Comes in handy when you unexpectedly fall while climbing or accidentally leap off a ledge.

Tears of the Kingdom is one of those games where the glitches aren't a product of terrible development but rather an indication of just how complex things can get once you master the mechanics. Despite having been released in May 2023, people are still finding glitches as late as December? 20?23 along with locations that most players don't visit. Recent glitches include the Bundled Item Duplication glitch, as well as the Ascend Camera glitch that repositions the camera far away from Link.

The compiled list is a long one with plenty you'll probably be interested in. However, some glitches have been patched out, so you'll have to check whether the glitch will work on your version. For this reason, if you plan on glitching, it's not a good idea to update your game copy, as it limits what glitches are available. This happened with the frozen meat glitch that was gone after a patch was released.

You may think you've explored Hyrule, but that's probably not the case. There are outfits to be found, new weapons to create, and an entire underground region to light up. All this makes Tears of the Kingdom a title you can enjoy for years to come.

The post Tears of the Kingdom players have created a handy guide to?? all the glitches available appeared first on Destructoid.

The Koroks of Tears of the Kingdom are seen as adorable creatures by some, while others find them to be nothing but annoyances. The latter group has made a sport out of torturing the Ko??roks by fusing them onto contraptions and putting them in the most horrific situations.

One player has started a collective project that utilizes Link's Ultrahand to create a machine that is putting the littluns in the worst situation possible. On the /r/tearsofthekingdom subreddit, the top comment on threads made by /u/Dif_The_Chaotic gets to decide what to add next to the machine

Reddit users are making the ultimate Legend of Zelda Korok torture device

It's been going on for six days now, and each addition showcases just how much you can do in Tears of the Kingdom with a little creativity and the right items. It started with a?? single Korok fused to a fan. The following? day, another Korok was added to the fan. On day four, a Hudson cutout was stuck to the creation.

Things got interesting on day five when a stabilizer was added, and the next day a homing cart was fused. The poor Koroks are now on a machine made mobile by a fan and a homing cart, and the Hudson cutout adds even more humor to the situation. It's hard to predict what will come next, thou??gh it seems a rocket is collecting the most votes, spelling trouble for the poor Koroks.

There is no DLC planned for Tears of the Kingdom, but projects such as these demonstrate just why that? isn't necessarily a problem. It feels like the kinds of contraptions you can create are limitless. You're also free to approach the game as you? please, either helping the Koroks or abusing them in the most absurd ways.

Do you have some ideas on how to make life worse for the Koroks? Join in the daily threads and throw in your suggestions. As many have discovered, there are a few items that are only found in shrines but can be used elsewhere if you have Autobuild. This is useful for some more complex ideas, such as an ATV that is capable of tackling vertical terrain.

If you've, like I have, taken a break from Tears of the Kingdom but want to jump back in, it's useful to visit places like /r/hyruleengineering and The Legend of Zelda Discord to get ideas on how to make?? the most of Link's amazing abilities.

The post T??he Tears of the Kingdom community is collectively creating a Korok torturing contraption appeared first on Destructoid.

Have you ever wanted to listen to the music of The Legend of Zelda live? Well, consider your wish granted. Nintendo has dropped the VOD for The Legend of Zelda Orchestra Concert onto their YouTube after canceling the originally Tokyo-exclusive performance at Nintendo Live 202??4 ??TOKYO.

Some of the tracks performed include Kakariko Village, The Ballad of the Goddess, and the main theme of Tears of the Kingdom. The orch??estra beautifully showcases the series' rich musical history through powerful renditions of the beloved classics. At a runtime of almost a half hour, it'll make for a pretty nice trip down memory lane if you're up for that adventure.

Also posted were statues of the Tears of the Kingdom's versions of Zelda, Link, and our no.1 hottie (according to Zoey Handley), Ganondorf.

The concert was originally planned for Nintendo Live TOKYO in January. Nintendo canceled the event after receivi??ng threats targ??eting the audience and workers.

In addition to the Zelda concert, Nintendo also held a Splatoon 3-themed concert the morning of February 10.

Musically Inclined

Whether you like The Legend of Zelda or not, you have to agree the music is amazing. Whether it's the classic Koji Kondo tracks or the newer Manaka Kataoka compositions, all Zelda music is downright memorable. So, to be able to have a whole concert ded?icated to it and done ?live is pretty awesome.

Watching the concert made me realize something: I really want to see it live. The closest I got to that was Lindsey Stirling with her Zelda melody years ago. And, as someone who's watched the trailers for Tears of the Kingdom and Breath of the Wind multiple times for the songs, I'd pay good money. I feel the same way about Final Fantasy and Sonic, as all of them have amazing orchestral tracks that'd be amazing to see live. So, Nintendo, maybe you could plan a national tour or something? Fine, I'll just play my oc?a??rina in private.

The post The Legend of Zelda Orchestra C?oncert VOD? is now available appeared first on Destructoid.

Nintendo has frequently stated that they want their hybrid console in every home. The latest consolidated financial highlights from Nintendo rev?eal the Switch is still in the running to be the best-selling console of all time.

Its sales figures surpass what was once Nintendo's innovative money printer, the DS, which the company claims to have sold over 154 million units of. The Switch is not too far away, having shipped a near unbelievable 139.36 million lifetime units as of December 31, 2023. This makes it one of the best-selling gam??ing consoles of all time.

Nintendo took what worked with the DS and Game Boy �their portability �but added the ability to turn it into a regular home console. Its Joy-cons also allow for the gimmicky titles Nintendo is known for, such as Ring Fit Adventure and Let’s Go, Pikachu. It seems that Nintendo expects more to pick up the Swithc, too. The company's modified forecast predicts at least 15.5 million more units.

For comparison, the PlayStation 2 sold an estimate of 158 million or so units, which would ?presumably hand it the throne when it comes to gaming console sales. It's no surprise to find Sony's ubiquitous console at the top of the list because, in its heyday, it was a living room staple and, very conveniently, could play DVDs.

A dandori story

The consolidated financial document goes through more than just hardware; it also delves into the software that keeps the hybrid relevant. When released, Pikmin 4 didn't cause much hype online, though it has an ardent group of followers who have been waiting years for the release. Snea??kily, the game has managed to sell 3.33 million units, according to the late?st stats from Nintendo.

Pikmin 4 isn't the only game discussed. As you can imagine, Tears of the Kingdom has also enjoyed success, moving 20.28 million units. When it comes to software, the open-world Zelda game is one of the most well-performing titles, really only mostly challenged by Animal Crossing, Super Smash Bros, and Mario.

This effect is visible with titles such as Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, which has sold 6.79 million copies in the quarter, bringing it to an incredible 60.58 million units sold overall. We may see even more sales numbers yet again from the Mario side, when Princess Peach: Showtime is released in March.

As someone who thoroughly enjoyed Pikmin 4, the sales numbers are very pleasing as it increases the odds of another title coming our way. It took roughly a decade for a mainstream title to arrive after Pikmin 3, and I, along with other fans, would greatly p??refer to not exper??ience that wait again.

The post ??Nintendo Switch sales?? clear 139M units heading into 2024 appeared first on Destructoid.

Exploring the Great Sky Island in Tear of the Kingdom makes for one of the coolest openings in a Zelda game, but that doesn’t stop some of us from ??wa??nting to escape it. 

Normally you have to play through the entirety of the Great Sky Island area to make your way to the mainland of Hyrule, but glitch hunters and Tears of the Kingdom speedrunners have ??been trying to find a way around that requirement since the game was released.

A YouTuber called Timber posted a lengthy video o?n January 23rd detailing their search for a way off the Great Sky Island. They began experimenting with different methods almost as soon as the game came out, but it took the help of the larger speedrunning community, and the better part of a year, to find a solution that works in the 1.0 and 1.1 versions of the game. The final process involves an elaborate series of glitches that let Link clip through the map, fly across the world, and land in the final boss arena. 

Hundreds of hours went into discovering all the glitches necessary to pull this stunt off. Even making a single run from the Great Sky Island to the boss arena takes upwards of two hours. But if you can line up all the pieces just right, and defeat Ganondorf with no upgrades and hardly any weapons, you can beat Tears of the Kingdom wit??h under one percent of the g??ame completed. 

How to skip the Great Sky Island tutorial in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The main idea behind getting off the Great Sky Island without playing through the tutorial is simple enough. You get Link to clip out of the map and fall down below the Depths where the game hides the arena for the final boss. When Link gets close?? enough t??o the room, he triggers the final boss cut scene and can make his way to the end of the game. In practice, it’s much more complicated than it sounds. 

You’ll need to start b??y using the Fuse entangle glitch to entangle a Zonai steering stick to your shield. Fuse entangle does a ton of funky things with different objects by tying their game state to the shield on Link’s back, and doing it is a pretty straightforward process: 

1. Use Fuse to connect an object to your shield
2. Swap shields before the fusion finishes

After this you'll still have a stick and a shield, but if you drop or unequip your shield, the stick will vanish. Next, unequip your shield just as you jump onto the stick. That should cause you to clip through the bottom of the map, but there’s another problem. When ??you drop too far below the Great Sky Island, the game will reset you. So you need to initiate a dialogue with a Steward Construct by firing an arrow and upsetting one at the same moment you start to fall. As long as you keep the dialogue window open, the game will let you keep falling. 

Clipping out like this slows down Link’s fall, so now you’ll have to wait about 45 minutes for him to sink down beneath the Depths. In the video, Timber had to set up an elaborate series of platforms to help him make it to the right spot to trigger the bos?s cut scene. After building the platforms, he’d clip them outside of the map and position them so they’d automatically gu?ide Link into the boss arena. 

Of course, after you finally get away from the Great Sky Island, you’ll have to contend with Ganondorf and his army. That’s a big ask at the beginning of the game, but there’s another glitch ?that can save you here called zuggling. If you combine it with Fuse entangling, you can move objects between game saves. Here’s how it works:

1. Fuse entangle the object you want, like a weapon, to your shield
2. With the shield still equipped, put your back up against a wall
3. Drop your shield
4. Switch shields
5. Drop the new shield

You have to do steps three through five very quickly, but you’ll know it worked if the entangled shield and object are both still visible. From there, you should be able to load another save taken at that same location in the game and pick up the objects. Once you get the method down, you can take the items you need to the Great Sky Island and move them to the beginning of the game . From there you just have to hoping your?? steering stick aim is good. 

The post Someone figured ou??t a detailed way to skip the Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Great Sky Island t??utorial appeared first on Destructoid.

Fans of Zelda music, take note, because Nintendo is bringing The Legend of Zelda Orchestra Concert online. The full pre-recorded performance will be available to stream for free via ?Nintendo's YouTube channel on February 9. 

According to the official website, viewers who tune into the concert can look forward to music selections ranging from the first Zelda to Tears of the Kingdom, all performed by a full orchestra. The video is listed as being around 30 minutes in length, and you'll be able to catch it starting at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time right here.

This particular concert was originally scheduled to be performed at the Nintendo Live 2024 TOKYO event, which was canceled due to unspecified threats. The event was planned for January 20 and 21 at Tokyo Big Sight before "aggressive" threats were made toward Nintendo staff and attendees. This also resulted in the postponement of national and world championships for Splatoon 3 and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Beyond the conce??rts, the Nintendo Live 2024 TOKYO event was also ?going to serve as a showcase for the latest games from Nintendo.  

The Legend of Zelda Orchestra Concert isn't the only event that just announced its rescheduled plans. The Splatoon 3 Deep Cut concert was also lined up for Nintendo Live 2024 TOKYO, and now it will stream via Nintendo's YouTube channel on February 10. Hey, that's two back-to-back days of Ninte?ndo concerts on YouTube! February's already lookin' up. 

The post The Legend of Zelda O??rchestra Conce?rt airs on February 9 appeared first on Destructoid.

It has been a good year for the Nintendo Switch. The hybrid console received critically acclaimed exclusives like Pikmin 4, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and Super Mario RPG. Recently, Nintendo revealed the top 30 most downloaded games on Japan's eShop in 2023.

The list doesn't come with too many surprises, although if you haven't been paying attention, it may be unexpected to see Pikmin 4 clinching third place. It didn't cause too much of a splash in the West, but Famitsu lists reveal that it has be??en sellin??g well in Japan. It may also be a shock to see that Tears of the Kingdom ?isn't in the number one spot an?d sits in second place instead.

That's because Suika Game takes first place, a game that has accumulated over 5 million downloads worldwide. The whole top 30 list looks like this:

1. Suika Game
2. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
3. Pikmin 4
4. Super Mario Bros. Wonder
5. Dragon Quest Monsters: The Dark Prince
6. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
7. Splatoon 3
8. Overcooked 2
9. Super Mario RPG
10. Fire Emblem Engage
11. Monster Hunter Rise
12. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
13. Pokémon Violet
14. Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection Vol. 2
15. Clubhouse Games: 51 Worldwide Classics
16. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
17. Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney Trilogy
18. Minecraft
19. Mega Man Battle Network Legacy Collection Vol. 1
20. Kirby's Return to Dream Land Deluxe
21. Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
22. Human: Fall Flat
23. Persona 4 Golden
24. Among Us
25. Momotaro Dentetsu World: Chikyuu wa Kibou de Mawatteru
26. Pikmin 2
27. Pokémon Scarlet
28. Nintendo Switch Sports
29. Pikmin 1
30. Momotaro Dentetsu: Showa, Heisei, Reiwa mo Teiban

The usual suspects also make an appearance. Pokemon has Pokemon Violet at number thirteen while Scarlet sits at number twenty-seven. The indomitable Mario Kart 8 Deluxe sits in sixth place and Super Mario Bros. Wonder appears nearby in fourth place.

Next year has the potential to be another phenomenal year for Nintendo. Princess Peach: Showtime! arrives in March, and you can also look forward to Tomb Raider I-III Remastered and Mario vs. Donkey Kong.

The post Nintendo reveals top 30 most-downloaded games on Japan’s eShop in 2023 appeared first on Destructoid.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom might be the perfect sequel in every definition of the word, but even Nintendo seems to agree that it has exhausted all possibilities for this ??particular iteration of Link’s journey.

You’ll know by now that Tears, originally conceived as a DLC for Breath of the Wild, morphed into a proper installment when the producers realized the sheer scope of the ideas being thrown around at the studio. The entire game is pretty much modeled after what you already experienced in the acclaimed 2017 title, and yet we couldn’t begin to list all the fun elements they built upon to turn Tears of the Kingdom into another sensational hit.

Sure, it may have ultimately lost the GOTY to Baldur’s Gate 3, but it’s not eve??ry day that we get a se??quel to one of the greatest games in history and somehow end up enjoying it more.

And the best part? It looks like Nintendo knows when to leave well enough alone, because it's not planning to develop a threequel to the Breath of the Wild offshoot.

Why Nintendo won't develop a sequel to Tears of the Kingdom according to its producer

Eiji Aonuma, who's served as a producer on The Legend of Zelda franchise for well over three decades, recently explained in an interview with Game Informer that they aren't planning a threequel, mainly because Tears is already the "apotheos?is" of this ??particular subseries.

"[...] As I've mentioned previously, with Tears of the Kingdom, we were seeking to build on top of the world we created with Breath of the Wild and really exhaust the possibilities of what we could put into that world," Aonuma explained. "I think it is �to use a bit of a term �an apotheosis, or the final form of that version of The Legend of Zelda. In that regard, I don't thi?nk that we'll be making a direct sequel to a world such as that that we've created."

I can't say I won't miss this incarnation of Hyrule, but in an era where franchises are so hell-bent on overstaying their welcome, this might just be the best creative decision Nintendo could've made for The Legend of Zelda at this particular junction.

The post Zelda producer confirms Tears of the Kingdom won’t get a direct sequel appeared first on Destructoid.

The curtain has closed on another year of The Game Awards, with Baldur's Gate 3 taking home the top prize - Game of the Year - at ??The Game Awards ??2023.

For the biggest names of the night, a few took home a bevy of awards. Baldur's Gate 3 led the charge with 6 trophies, while Alan Wake 2 took home a solid 3 and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom picked up a surprising single trophy.

For a game as tough as this year has been for the actual industry and developers, the games ??were at least pretty good. Hopefully, the developers who took home some hardware tonight can feel accomplished for all they mana??ged to make this year.

Here are all the winners from The Game Awards 2023, listed in ?bold, alongside the other nominated titles.

Game of the Year

• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Baldur’s Gate 3
• Resident Evil 4
• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
• Alan Wake 2
• Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Best Game Direction

• Larian Studios - Baldur’s Gate 3
• Nintendo - Super Mario Bros. Wonder
• Nintendo - The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Remedy - Alan Wake 2
• Insomniac Games - Marvel’s Spider-Man 2

Best Ongoing Game

• Apex Legends 
• Fortnite 
• Cyberpunk 2077 
• Final Fantasy XIV 
• Genshin Impact 

Best Narrative

• Baldur’s Gate 3
• Final Fantasy XVI
• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
• Alan Wake 2
• Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty

Best Art Direction

• Hi-Fi Rush
• Alan Wake 2
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Lies of P
• Super Mario Bros. Wonder

Best Score/Music

• Baldur's Gate 3
• Alan Wake 2
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Final Fantasy XVI
• Hi-Fi Rush

Best Audio Design

• Alan Wake 2
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• Hi-Fi Rush
• Resident Evil 4
• Dead Space

Best Performance

• Ben Starr as Clive Rosfield - Final Fantasy XVI
• Yuri Lowenthal as Peter Parker/Spider-Man - Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
• Cameron Monaghan as Cal Kestis - Star Wars Jedi: Survivor
• Melanie Liburd as Saga Anderson - Alan Wake 2
• Neil Newbon as Astarion - Baldur’s Gate 3
• Idris Elba as Solomon Reed - Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty

Best Community Support

• Baldur's Gate 3
• Cyberpunk 2077
• Destiny 2
• Final Fantasy XIV
• No Man's Sky

Games for Impact

• A Space for the Unbound
• Chants of Sennaar
• Goodbye Volcano High
• Tchia
• Terra Nil
• Venba

Best Independent Game

• Sea of Stars
• Dredge
• Viewfinder
• Dave The Diver
• Cocoon

Best Debut Indie Game

• Venba
• Dredge
• Viewfinder
• Pizza Tower
• Cocoon

Best Mobile Game

• Final Fantasy VII: Ever Crisis
• Hello Kitty Island Adventure
• Terra Nil
• Honkai: Star Rail
• Monster Hunter Now

Best VR/AR Game

• Horizon: Call of the Mountain
• Humanity
• Synapse
• Gran Turismo 7
• Resident Evil Village VR Mode

Best Action Game

• Dead Island 2
• Ghostrunner 2
• Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon
• Remnant 2
• Hi-Fi Rush

Best Action/Adventure Game

• Alan Wake 2
• Resident Evil 4
• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
• Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Best Role-Playing Game

• Baldur’s Gate 3
• Final Fantasy XVI
• Lies of P
• Starfield
• Sea of Stars

Best Fighting Game

• Street Fighter 6
• Mortal Kombat 1
• Nickelodeon All-Star Brawl 2
• God of Rock
• Pocket Bravery

Best Family Game

• Super Mario Bros. Wonder
• Pikmin 4
• Disney Illusion Island
• Party Animals
• Sonic Superstars

Best Simulation/Strategy Game

• Company of Heroes 3
• Cities Skylines II
• Advanced Wars 1 & 2: ReBoot Camp
• Fire Emblem Engage
• Pikmin 4

Best Sports/Racing Game

• Forza Motorsport 
• The Crew Motorfest
• Hot Wheels Unleashed 2: Turbocharged
• EA Sports FC 24
• F1 23

Best Multiplayer Game

• Super Mario Bros. Wonder
• Diablo IV
• Street Fighter VI
• Baldur’s Gate 3
• Party Animals

Content Creator of the Year

• Iron Mouse
• PeopleMakeGames
• Quackity
• Spreen
• SypherPK

Best in Accessibility

• Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
• Diablo 4
• Forza Motorsport
• Street Fighter VI
• Mortal Kombat 1
• Hi-Fi Rush

Best Adaptation

• Castlevania: Nocturne
• The Last of Us
• The Super Mario Bros. Movie
• Twisted Metal
• Gran Turismo

Most Anticipated Game

• Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth
• Final Fantasy VII Rebirth
• Star Wars Outlaws
• Tekken 8
• Hades II

Best Esports Game 

• Counter-Strike 2 
• DOTA 2 
• League of Legends 
• PUBG Mobile
• VALORANT 

Best Esports Athlete

• Mathieu "Zywoo" Herbaut (CS:GO)
• Lee “Fakerâ€?Sang-hyeok (LOL) 
• Max "Demon1" Mazanov (Valorant)
• Paco "Hydra" Rusiewiez (Call of Duty)
• Park "Ruler" Jae-hyuk (LOL)
• Phillip "Imperialhal" Dosen (Apex Legends)

Best Esports Team

• Evil Geniuses
• Fnatic
• Gaimin Gladiators
• JD Gaming
• Team Vitality

Best Esports Coach 

• Christine "Potter" Cie
• Danny "Zonic" Sorensen
• Jordan "Gunba" Graham
• Remy "XTQZZZ" Quoniam
• Yoon "Homme" Sung-Young

Best Esports Event

• EVO 2023
• 2023 League of Legends World Championship  
• Blast.TV Paris Major 2023
• The International DOTA 2 Championships 2023
• VALORANT Champions 2023 

Player's Voice

• Baldur's Gate 3
• Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty
• Genshin Impact
• Marvel's Spider-Man 2
• The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

The post Baldur’s Gate 3 wins Game of the Year at The Game Awards 2023 appeared first on Destructoid.

Koichi Miura, who worked as a landscape artist for Tears of the Kingdom, has left Nintendo. In his Tweet, he explains that the company is a haven for geniuses, but?? hell for an average person.

It doesn't seem like Miura is bitter about leaving, as his translated Tweet states that he has no regrets, and he thinks Nintendo is an incredible company. Nevertheless, he would??n't recommend it lightly. Though the company is ideal for geniuses, Miura felt as though he wasn't cut out for the environment. Ultimately, he discovered that he "wasn’t suited for the role," which has given him the confidence to pursue other goals.

A high-pressure environment isn't for everyone

It's not entirely obvious how Miura's comments should be interpreted. Nintendo has a reputation for being very tough to join, as it has high standards and expectations. Former contractors claim that it is a stilted environment with employees "apologizing profusely if th?ey left even 15 minutes early." You're also expected to?? be "connected all the time."

Even with this in mind, it's difficult to see why Miura would see himself as not suited for his role. His career history is beyond impressive, and he has worked for both Bandai Namco and Square Enix. He has credits on numerous critically acclaimed games including Kingdom Hearts 3, Ace Combat Zero: The Belkan War, and Ridge Racer V, to name a few. It ??would seem that he is adequately qualified for his position, so we may be witnessing a case of ?imposter syndrome.

In an interview with Encount (translated by Google), Miura comments on his Tweet, stating that by coming into contact with talented and highly motivated people, he rea??lized he wasn't the right fit. He is currently a YouTuber and freelance CG designer, and while he doesn't yet know what he wants to do with his life, he does reveal that he likes cars.

Though Nintendo may have lost Miura, the company keeps marching forward. Super Mario RPG recently launched and has been receiving raving reviews. You can also look forward to Princess Peach: Showtime! hitting stores in 2024.

The post Tears of the Kingdom artist claims working for Nintendo is “hell for an average person” appeared first on Destructoid.

Tears of the Kingdom has been receiving attention again thanks to the several The Game Awards nominations it has scored. Game director Hidemaro Fujibayashi recently discussed The Legend of Zelda with Nintendo Dream (translated by Nintendo Everything).

He focuses on Princess Zelda's growth throughout the franchise, especially in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. As he explains, Breath of the Wild was "about struggling with feeling? worthless due to not being able to meet the expectations others had for her, but finally finding her path and maturing ?in the end."

In Tears of the Kingdom, there are layers to the narrative divided between Link and Zelda. The princess has grown since the last game, and now that she's overcome her own troubles, she's "started to wonder what she can do for the people who currently live in the??? land of Hyrule."

New game, new look

Reaction to Zelda in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom was mixed, though the increased focus on t??he latter in the game does give the princess more chances for her personality to be fleshed out. Her short hair ??left quite an impression on fans for good and bad reasons.

Fujibayashi reveals that this was an intentional choice, as it was meant to show that the princess "has been actively participating in restoring people’s livelihoods a?nd other forms of humanitarian aid," whic?h has made her pick something that'll allow her to move around easier.

Over the years, we've seen Hyr??ule's guardian in different forms, but Fujibayashi argues that the current Zelda "might be one of the more powerful Princess Zeldas in history." As evidence, he points to h?ow she is able to take on Ganondorf without losing control of her powers.

This focus on character depth is not limited to Zelda, as fans would have no??ticed. Speak to NPCs at different point??s in the game, and you'll notice changes in their dialog that illustrate that they have been having their own life experiences while you were out adventuring.

Tears of the Kingdom still holds many secrets which will ensure the game remains popular for a long time. If you're waiting for DLC, don't hold your breath, as there are currently no plans for any expansions.

The post Tears of the Kingdom director discusses Princess Zelda’s personal growth appeared first on Destructoid.

With a The Legend of Zelda movie announced, fans have already been speculating on who will be filling which roles. Amidst the lively conversation, Patricia Summersett, who voices Zelda in Tears of the Kingdom, has stated that she would love to return? to her role in the upcoming movie.

In an interview with GamesRadar+, Summersett reveals just how attached she has grown to her role since she voiced in Breath of the Wild. Though she's voiced the princess in three games already, including Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, she claims she "could always take more of it." Of course, this? doesn't mean that her return has been confirmed in the upcoming movie, as the cast list h?as yet to be revealed.

The Legend of Zelda movie

Earlier this year, there were rumors that a The Legend of Zelda movie is in the works courtesy of Illumination. The rumors were proven false, though they did correctly predict that Nintend?o is working on adapting its highly successful franchise.

The movie is being directed by Maze Runner's Wes Ball, and it will be produced by Pikmin creator Shigeru Miyamoto and Avi Arad who is chairma??n of Arad Productions Inc. Somewhat surprisingly, the film is receiving financing from Sony Pictures Entertain??ment, though more than 50% will be financed by Nintendo.

With no DLC planned for Tears of the Kingdom, the announced movie is something for fans to look forward to if they're searching for their next big dose of Zelda. No release date has been given yet.

The post Zelda voice actor “would love to” reprise her role in upcoming The Legend of Zelda movie appeared first on Destructoid.

It's time again for financial reports, and Nintendo's is particularly interesting, as it reveals that its first-party IPs are doing exceedingly well, including Tears of the Kingdom.

In August, it was revealed that The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom had sold 18 million copies. With the latest financial report, Nintendo claims that Tears of the Kingdom has sold over a mi??llion more copies, bringing up the tot??al to 19.5 million.

Other first-party franchises have been also thriving, including Pikmin 4 which is somewhat of a surprise. It has managed to sell 2.61 million copies already, surpassing the sales of prior titles. Pokémon Scarlet and Violet have also sold well, managing to top 23.23 million units ??sold.

Mario has also been enjoying a good year thanks to the exposure it has been getting from The Super Mario Bros. Movie, and Mario 8 Kart Deluxe has sold 3.22 million copies. The company will continue to capitalize on the franchise's popularity through Super Mario RPG Remake and Princess Peach: Showtime!.

Nintendo's first-party franchises doing amazing numbers

According to company, net sales du?ring the first half o?f the fiscal year increased by 21.2%. It is also revealed that "sales in the first half of the fiscal year were the largest since the launch of Nintendo Switch." This has been attributed to a 133.3% year-on-year increase in mobile and IP-related income, as well as the general depreciation of the yen.

Overall, the profit margin remained at the same level as last year, which isn't a bad thing. Nintendo, in part, attributes this to the increasi?ng sales of the Switch OLED model which has a smaller profit margin.

Forever secretive, it is hard to predict what's next for Nintendo. There have been rumors that there is a Switch successor in the works, though president Shuntaro Furukawa has called these reports inaccurate.

The post Tears of the Kingdom tops 19.5 million units sold appeared first on Destructoid.

Occasionally, I'll try a "weird controller" challenge: I mean, playing things with a DDR mat is just a fun idea. But have you ever considered beating Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom bosses with an ocarina?

Reddit user gvmimi just did it. And for multiple fights, too!

I beat the Wind Temple Boss with my Ocarina as a control?ler
byu/gvmimi intearsofthekingdom

Here they are fighting the Wind Temple boss. And the Water Temple boss. And astonishingly, the Lightning Temple boss. Their goal is to beat the who??le game with said Ocarina controller, which subs ?for a traditional control method for the Switch.

How are they doing it? As gvmimi notes: "I have a program on my computer that allows me to map different musical notes/frequencies to different inputs." They also pointed out that they've cleared Breath of the Wild with an Ocarina, so their determinat??ion is now tenfold.

Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will be talked about for years

When I first experienced Tears of the Kingdom in complete isolation during the review period, I knew it was going to be big when it came to showing off emergent gameplay online (bold claim, I know!). There are just so many divergent puzzle solutions that it's a blast to see how someone else handled a problem. In fact, I specifically sought out other people who also cleared a lot of puzzles by throwing a bunch of stuff in a pile until it built a giant contraption. It was straight out of that scene in Home Alone 2 where Marv builds a little structure to help him and Harr?y get out of the basement of Uncle Rob and Aunt Georgette's townhouse.

Where was I? Oh, Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a fun game to both play and watch: which is becoming a rarity as many other AAA gam??es rely on old open world tropes.

The post A brave soul is beat??ing Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom bosses with an Ocarina controller appeared first on Destructoid.

A burning question resting on fans' minds since The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom released is where all the Guardian tech disappeared to after Breath of the Wild's events. Although some time passed?? between installments, the Guardians' omission feels odd, given their previous prevalence.

Now there's an official answer given by Tears of the Kingdom director Hidemaro Fujibayashi, and it's uneventful. He stated in an interview with Telegraph that the Guardians "disappeared after the Ca?lamity was defeated (sealed)."

"All of the people of Hyrule also witnessed this, but there is no one who knows the mechanism or reason why they disappeared,?? and it is considered a mystery," said Fujibayashi. "It is believed that since the Calamity disappeared, they also disappeared as their role had been fulfilled."

Fujibayashi then acknowledged how common "mysterious occurrences and phenomena" are to Hyrule's various races. It's why no??body saw this as any cause for concern since odd events are just part of everyday life.

He finishes his in-world explanation by stating how many Hyrule residents accept that "ancient Sheikah technology" was responsible. Many also saw it as something not worth delving into. He concluded by mentioning how both titles' civilizations are c??ompletely different, and the team based each title's concepts on the respective civilizations.

On Tears of the Kingdom's design, Fujibayashi said the tea??m aimed to give players an "exhilarating and happy experience" while exploring the Sky Islands. Meanwhile, the Depths were to provide "tension" to players exploring.

The official explanation for the Guardians' disappearance in Zelda being that they just left and nobody cared is honestly hilarious. It'll likely be a while before we see them again as The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom won't have any post-launch content.

The post Zelda director explains where all the Guardian tech w??ent after Breath of the Wild appeared first on Destructoid.