The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdomcomes out on September 26, and many long-time fans and newcomers alike are very excited about it. This latestupcoming entry in theZeldafranchisepromises to bring somenew, intriguing puzzle mechanicsin the form of creating Echoes, rather than the usual sword-swinging combat found in games prior. What makes this upcoming game especially noteworthy is that it is the first time in over 35 years that players can adventure as Zelda, rather than the iconic protagonist Link.
With the latest iteration of theZeldatimelinerevealing whereBreath of the WildandTears of the Kingdomfit in (on a new, separate branch), many have wondered ifEchoes of Wisdomis a standalone title or a sequel to a prior game in the franchise. Witha collection of titles that spans nearly 40 years, theZeldafranchise has numerous exciting adventures to choose from. Fortunately, newcomers to the series do not have to worry about needing to play dozens of previous games before picking upEchoes of Wisdom.
The Zelda Franchise Doesn’t Have Many Sequels
Only A Few Games Directly Follow Another
Despite the vast array of titles to choose from,only a few games in theZeldafranchise can be considered direct sequels.Majora’s Maskis a sequel toOcarina Of Time, while the more recentTears Of The Kingdomis a sequel toBreath Of The Wild. Even with these games being considered sequels, however, they can still be enjoyed by all without needing to play the entries that came before them.
The otherdirectZeldasequelsareZelda 2: The Adventure of Link, a successor to the 1986 original;Link’s Awakeningand theOracleduology, which all featureA Link to the Past’s Link;Phantom Hourglass, which followsThe Wind Waker; andTri Force Heroes, which hasA Link Between Worlds' Link venturing to Hytopia.
ManyZeldagames feature different versions of Link and Zeldathanks to different timelines and reincarnation, meaning that one version of these characters has endured completely different trials and tribulations than the other. With all this in mind, this makes the events of each game largely standalone. Although playing prior games in the franchise might help players understand the lore better, it is not a necessity to enjoy the overall experience.
Echoes Of Wisdom Is Not A Sequel To Another Zelda Title
It Can Be Enjoyed Alone
Despite sharing a similar art style with theSwitch remake ofLink’s Awakening,Echoes of Wisdomis not actually a sequel to any previous game. This new entry is a completely standalone title, meaning that any newcomers to the franchise can jump right into this game without needing to overwhelm themselves with years of previous lore. Although references to prior games do exist,Echoes of Widsom’s unique mechanics and story do not require any prior knowledge to enjoy fully.
The Legend of Zeldafranchise is full of numerous games, and this latest entry into the franchise is sure to be something special. Both long-time fans and newcomers are very excited about its release, and although there was some worry about needing to catch up by playing previous games, those concerns can be put to rest. Thankfully, newer players will be able to experience all thatThe Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdomhas to offer as a fun, unique standalone title.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Strange rifts are tearing Hyrule apart, and with Link missing, it’s up to Princess Zelda to save the kingdom. Armed with the Tri Rod and aided by a mysterious fairy, she must solve puzzles, create environmental “echoes,” and battle enemies while navigating new regions and uncovering hidden secrets.
