Following on from yesterday’s announcement by Nintendo to release a documentary showing the making of the new Zelda Breath of the Wild game, three 10-minute videos have now been published to the official Nintendo YouTube channel.
These videos provide an in-depth look at the different development stages involved in creating the next iconic open-world adventure in the Zelda series. The videos follow on from Nintendo’s revelatory Zelda panel held at GDC 2017. Check them out below.
Development Insights from Director Hidemaro Fujibayashi
Director Hidemaro Fujibayashi discusses the process and journey of creating The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. He delves into the initial concept stages, where the team aimed to break away from traditional Zelda conventions to create a more immersive and expansive world. Fujibayashi explains how the team experimented with various gameplay mechanics and environmental interactions to ensure that players would feel a genuine sense of exploration and discovery.
Character Design and Story Integration
In the second video, the creators discuss the process of crafting new designs and features for the main characters, as well as how these elements fit into the overall story of the game. They highlight the challenges of balancing innovation with the beloved traditions of the Zelda series. For instance, the design of Link, the protagonist, was carefully considered to allow for a wide range of player interactions and customizations. The team also focused on creating a rich narrative that would be both engaging and flexible, allowing players to approach the story in their own unique ways.
Producer Eiji Aonuma discusses the importance of creating a game where players could be free to explore. He emphasizes the significance of player agency and the freedom to tackle challenges in multiple ways. Aonuma shares insights into the development of the game’s physics engine, which allows for a high degree of interactivity and creativity. For example, players can use various objects and environmental elements to solve puzzles and defeat enemies in innovative ways.
The documentary also touches on the collaborative efforts of the development team, showcasing how different departments worked together to bring the game to life. From the art and sound design teams to the programmers and testers, each member played a crucial role in shaping the final product. The videos provide a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes efforts that go into creating a game of this magnitude.
Moreover, the documentary highlights the feedback loop between the developers and the players. The team conducted extensive playtesting sessions to gather player feedback and make necessary adjustments. This iterative process ensured that the game would meet the high expectations of Zelda fans while also attracting new players to the series.
The making of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is a testament to the dedication and creativity of the development team. The documentary offers valuable insights into the complexities of game development and the passion that drives the creation of such an iconic title. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or new to the world of Zelda, these videos provide a fascinating look at the artistry and innovation behind one of the most acclaimed games of recent years.
Source: Nintendo
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