Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity is a Switch 'prequel' to Breath of the Wild

Nintendo may have a clever way to draw attention to its Hyrule Warriors combat games: tie the latest release directly to one of its best-known Legend of Zelda titles. The gaming giant has announced (via IGN) Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, a spiritual prequel to Breath of the Wild that comes to the Switch on November 20.

The battle-focused title is set 100 years before the events of the 2017 game and borrows both its art style and many characters. You play as Link, Zelda, and other “fan-favorite” characters (such as the four Champions) leading fights in in Hyrule before the Great Calamity destroyed many of its well-known locations.

Like the earlier Hyrule Warriors (and the Dynasty Warriors games that inspire it), this doesn’t share much in common with classic Legend of Zelda gameplay. Instead, it centers around combos and special abilities as you fight hordes of enemies. You can, however, expect a “robust” plot that recounts the events of the Great Calamity.

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You can also expect plenty to do as you progress, including environmental puzzles, crafting, and skill development. And yes, the Sheikah Slate that was a staple of Breath of the Wild makes its return in this game.

It’s an important release. Nintendo’s holiday 2020 lineup is so far dominated by Super Mario 35th anniversary games and Pikmin 3. They’re significant, but not blockbusters. While Age of Calamity also isn’t a flagship game, it’s still a big release — especially if you’re a Breath of the Wild fan who wants the full backstory.