Legend of Zelda News, Updates & Articles

Hunter Schafer Reportedly in Talks to Play Princess Zelda in Upcoming Live-Action Film

The Legend of Zelda: Live Action Movie May 30, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Could the Euphoria star be stepping into the role of Hyrule’s princess?

The long-awaited live-action film adaptation of The Legend of Zelda is officially in the works, with a theatrical release date set for March 26, 2027. While Nintendo has yet to confirm the full cast, recent reports suggest that actress Hunter Schafer is being strongly considered for the role of Princess Zelda.

A Fan-Favorite Casting Choice?

Schafer, widely recognized for her breakout role as Jules in HBO’s Euphoria, has already captured the attention of Zelda fans for her striking resemblance to the princess of Hyrule. Her performances in The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes and Cuckoo further showcase her emotional range—something crucial for portraying Zelda’s complex character across the series’ many timelines and incarnations.

Speaking with Entertainment Tonight in 2023, Schafer embraced the idea of playing Zelda, saying:

“That would be so cool. I played that video game a bunch when I was a kid. That’s such a good game.”

Though no official offer has been made public, insider Daniel Richtman—known for breaking major casting scoops—claims Schafer is on the studio’s shortlist.

Behind the Scenes: Who’s Making the Zelda Movie?

Nintendo has partnered with Sony Pictures to bring Hyrule to life, with Wes Ball (Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes) confirmed as director. Legendary game creator Shigeru Miyamoto is co-producing the film alongside Avi Arad, the Hollywood producer behind the Spider-Man and Uncharted franchises. Also joining the production team is Joe Hartwick Jr. of Oddball Entertainment.

The project promises to honor the beloved franchise’s deep lore while making it accessible to a new generation of viewers. According to Miyamoto, the film will be crafted “for Zelda fans and newcomers alike.”

Other Names in the Mix

Fans are also championing Patricia Summersett, the voice actress for Princess Zelda in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, to appear in some capacity. Summersett herself has shown enthusiasm about potentially taking on the role in live-action.

What Fans Can Expect

While plot details remain under wraps, speculation points toward a story inspired by Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess—both of which feature cinematic narratives well-suited for a major film adaptation. Whether Schafer dons the royal garb or another actress is ultimately chosen, Zelda fans are keeping a close eye on every development.

This live-action film joins a growing list of high-profile video game adaptations, following the success of The Super Mario Bros. Movie and The Last of Us. With Zelda’s legacy spanning nearly four decades, expectations are sky-high—but so is the excitement.

Stay Tuned to Zelda Central

We’ll be following this story closely and updating fans with every casting confirmation, trailer release, and lore tie-in. Whether you’re hoping for Schafer, Summersett, or a total surprise, the journey to the big screen is only just beginning.

Big N64 Upgrades Coming to Switch Online! …With a Catch for Some Hero of Time Hopefuls

Majora's Mask, Nintendo Switch 2, Ocarina of Time May 28, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Calling all Hyrule warriors and nostalgic adventurers! Nintendo has just dropped some exciting news for fans of its Nintendo 64 catalog on Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Starting June 5th, three significant new features will be rolling out, promising to enhance your retro gaming sessions. However, there’s a Goron-sized “but” that Zelda fans will want to note.

The three new features announced are:

Customizable Controls: Finally, the ability to remap those iconic N64 buttons to your liking!
Rewind Feature: Made a misstep in a tricky dungeon? Now you’ll be able to turn back the clock.
CRT Screen Filter: For that authentic blast-from-the-past visual experience.

These are fantastic additions that many have been hoping for, especially for navigating the sometimes-unconventional N64 controller layouts and tackling notoriously challenging sequences in classic games.

Zelda Fans, Here’s What This Means For You (and Your Switch)

For those eager to dive back into Ocarina of Time or Majora’s Mask with these new bells and whistles, here’s the crucial breakdown:

Customizable Controls (Available on original Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2): This is a universal win! Players on all Nintendo Switch models with the Expansion Pack subscription will be able to tweak the N64 controller layout. This could be a game-changer for Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, allowing players to map items or actions to more intuitive buttons, potentially making aiming with the slingshot or bow, or playing the ocarina, a smoother experience. Remember the C-button complexities? Now you’ll have more say in how they work for you!
Rewind Feature (Exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2): This highly anticipated feature, allowing you to rewind gameplay a short period to correct mistakes, will unfortunately only be available on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console, also launching on June 5th. For Zelda players, this means those on the original Switch won’t be able to use it to undo a missed jump in the Deku Tree or a fatal error during a boss battle like Goht in Snowhead. However, for future Switch 2 owners, this will be a fantastic tool for tackling some of the Zelda N64 era’s tougher challenges without the frustration of a full game over. Think of retrying those tricky silver rupee collections in Majora’s Mask or nail-biting final blows on Ganon.
CRT Screen Filter (Exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2): Similarly, the option to apply a CRT screen filter to mimic the look of old-school televisions will also be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2. While not a gameplay-altering feature, it’s a nice touch for those seeking maximum nostalgia when adventuring through Hyrule Field or Clock Town.

The Road Ahead

While the exclusivity of the Rewind and CRT filter to the Nintendo Switch 2 might be a Deku Nut to swallow for some current Switch owners, the introduction of customizable controls for everyone is a significant step forward.

Nintendo’s official announcement, which you can view here (though the video primarily showcases the features on Switch 2), highlights these updates as part of an ongoing effort to enhance the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service.

So, come June 5th, Expansion Pack members on the original Switch will still benefit from much-needed controller customization for their N64 Zelda adventures. And for those planning to pick up a Nintendo Switch 2, an even richer N64 experience awaits, bringing modern conveniences to timeless classics.

What are your thoughts, Zelda Central readers? Are you excited about customizable controls? Will the new features on Switch 2 tempt you to upgrade? Let us know in the comments below!

Adventure Awaits: Enter the Ultimate Legend of Zelda Sweepstakes

Nintendo May 22, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Nintendo has unveiled an exciting opportunity for Zelda enthusiasts: the “Adventure Awaits: Legend of Zelda Sweepstakes.” This exclusive event offers fans a chance to win a treasure trove of collectibles celebrating the rich legacy of The Legend of Zelda series.

Grand Prize Details

Five fortunate winners will receive a premium bundle that includes:

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess Complete Manga Box Set: This comprehensive collection features all 11 volumes of the acclaimed manga adaptation by Akira Himekawa, along with a collectible double-sided poster.
Exclusive Metal Posters: Two full-color, 24″ x 20″ metal panels showcasing stunning artwork from The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. These pieces are exclusive to this sweepstakes and are not available elsewhere.

How to Enter

Participation is straightforward:

Eligibility: Open to residents of the United States and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are 13 years of age or older.
My Nintendo Account: Ensure you have an active My Nintendo account.
Redeem Points: Log in to your account and redeem 10 Platinum Points per entry, with a maximum of five entries per person.
Entry Deadline: Submit your entries by 11:00 PM PDT on August 12, 2025.
Winner Notification: Winners will be selected on August 19, 2025, and notified via email on August 26, 2025.

About the Twilight Princess Manga

The Twilight Princess manga series, crafted by the duo Akira Himekawa, offers a deeper exploration into the game’s narrative, spanning 11 volumes released between 2016 and 2022. The series delves into the darker themes of the Twilight Princess game, providing fans with a rich, immersive experience.

Additional Resources

Official Sweepstakes Page: My Nintendo Sweepstakes
Purchase the Manga Set: Amazon

Don’t miss this chance to own a piece of Zelda history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the series, these collectibles are a must-have for any enthusiast. Enter the sweepstakes today and may the Triforce be with you!

Zelda: Ocarina of Time Fan Remake in Unreal Engine 5—Download the Stunning Zora’s Domain Demo Now!

Ocarina of Time May 20, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Zelda fans, rejoice! CryZENx has just unveiled a breathtaking new demo of his fan-made remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time in Unreal Engine 5.5.4, spotlighting the serene beauty of Zora’s Domain. This free demo offers a nostalgic journey through one of Hyrule’s most iconic locales, now reimagined with stunning modern visuals.

Explore Zora’s Domain Like Never Before

Dive into the crystalline waters and majestic architecture of Zora’s Domain, brought to life with Unreal Engine 5’s advanced lighting and environmental effects. This isn’t merely a visual overhaul; the demo incorporates interactive gameplay elements, allowing players to engage with NPCs, collect items, and experience in-engine cutscenes that pay homage to the original game. The demo is currently available as a free 30 FPS version, with a smoother 60 FPS experience accessible to CryZENx’s Patreon supporters

A Labor of Love

CryZENx has been dedicated to this project for years, meticulously recreating various regions of Ocarina of Time with a blend of reverence and innovation. Previous demos have showcased areas like Zora’s River and Dodongo’s Cavern, each reflecting his commitment to capturing the essence of the original while enhancing it with contemporary technology.

Download and Experience It Yourself

Ready to step into this reimagined world? You can download the Zora’s Domain demo directly from CryZENx’s Patreon page. While the 30 FPS version is freely available, supporting CryZENx on Patreon grants access to the enhanced 60 FPS version and helps sustain the development of this remarkable project.

Witness the Magic

For a glimpse of what awaits, check out the official gameplay video below:

Hyrule’s Harley: A Player’s Ingenious Motorcycle in Tears of the Kingdom

Tears of the Kingdom May 19, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Even two years after launch, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom still sparks jaw-dropping creativity—and one player just revved it up to eleven. On Reddit, user ryt1314059 unveiled a fully functional, Harley‑Davidson–style motorcycle built entirely in-game using Ultrahand and Zonai gadgets.

Building a Legend

Nintendo challenged itself to outdo Breath of the Wild with fresh terrain—Sky Islands, the Depths—and by empowering players with Ultrahand, the tool that lets Link pick up, fuse, and animate almost anything. As the community experimented, they mastered these physics, crafting everything from flying ships to submarines.

Ride of Your Life

In a short clip, ryt1314059 rolls out a gleaming bike, complete with twin wagon‑wheel front tires, sculpted handlebars, tailpipes, even a headlight. Link hops on and cruises across an open field, steering smoothly as if it were a true Harley. And there’s more: they promise to share the exact build via the upcoming QR‑code feature on Switch 2—so any fan can park their own legendary motorcycle in Hyrule.

Harley-Davidson
byu/ryt1314059 inHyruleEngineering

Community Cheers

The post exploded on r/HyruleEngineering, racking up hundreds of upvotes. Commenters lauded the “incredible attention to detail” and inventive use of parts. One fan pointed out how cleverly the creator used two wagon wheels for stability at the front. Even a real Harley‑Davidson engineer stopped by to admire the authenticity.

More Mechanical Marvels

This isn’t a one‑off stunt for ryt1314059. Their gallery brims with mechanical masterpieces: a whirring helicopter, various bespoke planes, and a buoyancy‑controlled submarine that actually dives. Each design demonstrates the limitless potential Ultrahand and Zonai devices unlock.

With Tears of the Kingdom confirmed for Nintendo Switch 2, expect a fresh wave of builders to return—and to see your own creations shared via QR codes. Who knows what Hyrule‑powered contraption will appear next?

Echoes of Wisdom Leveled Up for Nintendo Switch 2!

Echoes of Wisdom May 17, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Brace yourselves, Hyrule heroes—on June 5, 2025, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom receives a free upgrade for Nintendo’s next-gen handheld, the Switch 2, Nintendo has confirmed.

What’s coming to Echoes of Wisdom?

Optimized Visuals: The game will be fine-tuned for the Switch 2’s brighter, more vibrant display and will look stunning on 4K TVs.
HDR Support: Bask in deeper blacks, brighter highlights, and richer colors as Echoes of Wisdom gains full HDR when docked to a compatible TV.

These enhancements arrive at no additional cost for anyone who already owns the original Switch version.

Why no frame-rate bump?

Unlike some games getting a straight 30→60 fps boost, Echoes of Wisdom already targets 60 fps on the original Switch hardware—albeit with occasional drops. Nintendo’s patch notes don’t promise a new 120 fps mode; instead, the extra horsepower of Switch 2 should stabilize performance, delivering a more consistent 60 fps experience throughout Hyrule’s fields and the eerie Still World.

How to grab the update

Simply connect your Switch 2 to the internet, perform a system update, and the free patch for Echoes of Wisdom will download automatically on launch day, June 5. No fumbling through menus—just jump right back into Zelda’s adventure.

What this means for Zelda fans

Playing as Princess Zelda in Echoes of Wisdom is already a breath of fresh air. Now, with crisper visuals and HDR vibrancy, every echo you summon and every corridor you explore will pop like never before. While some fans hoped for a full frame-rate overhaul, the reality is that consistent 60 fps on Switch 2 hardware will smooth out stutters that occasionally plagued the original release.

Beyond Echoes: the bigger picture

Echoes of Wisdom is one of 12 first-party Switch titles receiving free upgrades at Switch 2 launch—including Link’s Awakening, Pokémon Scarlet & Violet (which do get both resolution and frame-rate boosts), Super Mario Odyssey, and ARMS (with HDR and framerate improvements). It’s Nintendo’s way of ensuring your libraries shine on their powerful new console.

Final Thoughts

June 5 can’t come soon enough! Whether you’re revisiting Hyrule’s frozen realms or just marveling at HDR-pumped waterfalls, Echoes of Wisdom on Switch 2 promises to be a visual treat—and at zero extra cost, it’s a win for every Zelda fan.

Stay tuned to Zelda Central for hands-on impressions the moment Switch 2 lands. Until then, sharpen your Tri Rod and prepare for the clearest, most vibrant Zelda adventure yet!

New Wind Waker Switch 2 Footage Drops Ahead of June Release

Nintendo Switch 2, The Wind Waker May 11, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Nintendo has released fresh gameplay footage of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker running on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, offering fans a glimpse of the enhanced visuals and performance.

The new footage, showcased via the Nintendo Today app, highlights several combat-focused scenes. Players can see Link engaging in battles with standard enemies, training with the swordsman Orca, and confronting iconic bosses.

[Nintendo GameCube™ – Nintendo Classics] The Legend of Zelda™: The Wind Waker Gameplay Video (Battles)

View this content in the Nintendo Today! app: today.oatmealdome.me

[image or embed]

– TodayNews (@today.oatmealdome.me) May 8, 2025 at 11:06 AM

Wind Waker is set to be one of the first GameCube titles available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service, launching exclusively on the Switch 2 on June 5.

In addition to Wind Waker, the initial lineup includes F-Zero GX and Soulcalibur II.

Nintendo has also announced a wireless GameCube-style controller for the Switch 2, priced at $64.99, available exclusively to Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.

With the enhanced visuals and new control options, fans can look forward to experiencing The Wind Waker in a whole new light when it launches on June 5.

Hyrule Crossing? Fan Brilliantly Recreates Tears of the Kingdom Scenes in Animal Crossing!

Tears of the Kingdom May 4, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

Hey Zelda Central readers! Get ready for a crossover you might not have expected, but will definitely appreciate. The epic scope and emotional story of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have captured the hearts of millions, and the creativity of the Zelda fandom continues to astound us. In a truly dedicated display of fandom, one talented player has brought some of TotK’s key opening moments to life… within the charming world of Animal Crossing: New Horizons!

That’s right, using the tools available in Animal Crossing, this fan meticulously recreated scenes that are etched into our memories. Shared via a new YouTube channel aptly named ACV-TotK, a video spanning over seven minutes showcases this incredible feat.

Reliving the Adventure, Island Style!

The video primarily focuses on the dramatic opening hours of Tears of the Kingdom. You’ll see adorable Animal Crossing-style interpretations of:

Link and Zelda’s exploration of the mysterious ruins deep beneath Hyrule Castle.
The chilling discovery and awakening of the mummified Ganondorf (handled with impressive creativity, given Animal Crossing‘s usually cheerful aesthetic!).
Link’s awakening on the Great Sky Island and his first steps in the transformed Hyrule.

The creator didn’t just rebuild locations; they captured the feel of the moments. By cleverly combining footage from both games at times and incorporating Tears of the Kingdom’s iconic musical motifs and sound effects, the video is an unmistakable and loving tribute to the newest mainline Zelda adventure.

A Labour of Love

The creator behind this project, known as “PumpkIntestines11111” on Reddit, described the video as involving “so much hard work,” and watching it, you can absolutely see why. The attention to detail in translating Hyrule’s ancient Zonai structures and characters into Animal Crossing‘s distinct style is remarkable.

While Animal Crossing is known for its customization, seeing it used to recreate the specific narrative beats and atmosphere of Tears of the Kingdom is a fantastic example of fan passion. The creator even hinted they might be interested in recreating more of the game in this style!

This project is a wonderful testament to how deeply Tears of the Kingdom has resonated with players and the incredible ways fans express their love for the world of Hyrule. It’s always amazing to see the creativity within the Zelda community branch out in such unique ways.

Be sure to check out the ACV-TotK channel on YouTube to see this delightful recreation for yourself! It’s a must-watch for fans of Zelda and creativity.

Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition: Larger Than Tears of the Kingdom and Packed with Enhancements

Breath of the Wild, Nintendo Switch 2 May 1, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

As the Nintendo Switch 2’s launch on June 5, 2025, approaches, fans are eagerly anticipating the enhanced “Switch 2 Editions” of iconic titles. Among these, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stands out, not only for its groundbreaking gameplay but also for its substantial file size in the new edition.

Nintendo Switch 2 game download sizes

Cyberpunk 2077 – 59.8 GB
Yakuza 0 – 53.7 GB
Mario Kart World – 23.4 GB
Bravely Default – 11 GB*
Donkey Kong Banaza – 10 GB*
Zelda BOTW – 24.2 GB
Zelda TOTK – 19.9 GB
Kirby and the Forgotten Land – 13 GB
Super Mario Party Jamboree – 13 GB pic.twitter.com/aPF46tN3qd
— Nintendeal (@Nintendeal) April 27, 2025

File Size Comparison: Breath of the Wild vs. Tears of the Kingdom

The Switch 2 Edition of Breath of the Wild requires a total of 24.1GB of storage—14.4GB for the base game and an additional 9.7GB for the upgrade pack. In contrast, Tears of the Kingdom comes in at 19.9GB, with 16.3GB for the base game and a 3.6GB upgrade pack.

This discrepancy may be attributed to Breath of the Wild‘s original development for both the Wii U and Switch, necessitating more extensive updates to leverage the Switch 2’s capabilities. These enhancements include improved resolution, frame rates, and HDR support.

Upgrade Options and Pricing

Players who already own these titles on the original Switch can access the Switch 2 upgrades for €9.99 each. Alternatively, subscribers to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will gain exclusive access to these enhanced editions at no additional cost.

Introducing Zelda Notes

Enhancing the gameplay experience, Nintendo introduces “Zelda Notes,” a companion app available on compatible smart devices. This feature offers voice-assisted navigation, insights from characters like Princess Zelda, and additional support for your adventures in Hyrule.

Storage Considerations

With the Switch 2 offering 256GB of internal storage, accommodating these enhanced titles should be manageable for most users. However, considering the size of other launch titles—such as Mario Kart World at 23.4GB and Donkey Kong Bananza at 10GB—players may want to consider expanding their storage with compatible microSD cards.

For fans eager to revisit Hyrule with enhanced visuals and performance, these Switch 2 Editions offer a compelling reason to upgrade

Breath of the Wild Beaten in Just 7 Minutes on Nintendo Switch 2!

Breath of the Wild, Nintendo Switch 2 April 29, 2025 Victor Williams 0 Comments

With the Nintendo Switch 2 set to launch on June 5, 2025, excitement is building for the re-release of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild alongside Tears of the Kingdom. But while fans eagerly wait, one player has already pulled off something incredible—beating Breath of the Wild on the new hardware in just seven minutes!

How Is That Even Possible?

At a special Tokyo preview event, Japanese speedrunner Ikaboze got his hands on a demo of Breath of the Wild running on Nintendo Switch 2. Loading up a save file stationed just outside Hyrule Castle, he immediately sprang into action. Rather than rely on powerful gear, Ikaboze challenged himself by stripping down to basic equipment and rushing straight for Calamity Ganon.

The result? An astonishing seven-minute sprint from castle gates to final blow—well within the event’s time limits. It’s a jaw-dropping showcase of skill, strategy, and deep familiarity with the game’s mechanics. Speedrunners have long been known for breaking games wide open, but pulling it off on early Switch 2 hardware is something truly special.

What’s New with the Re-release?

The Switch 2 versions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom promise improved graphics and smoother frame rates, giving these modern classics an even sharper look and feel. However, it’s been confirmed that DLC won’t be bundled with the re-releases. Players who want the full experience—including the Master Trials, Champion’s Ballad, and exclusive treasure chests—will need to shell out an extra $20 on top of the $70 base price, unless they’re part of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership.

While the pricing has sparked some frustration, the enhanced versions and DLC additions could open the door for new speedrun categories and even bigger community challenges once the games are officially out.

A New Record, A New Era?

With this impressive feat, Ikaboze may go down as the first to defeat Calamity Ganon on the Nintendo Switch 2. His performance not only hyped up the Tokyo event, but also amplified excitement across the Zelda fan community for what’s to come.

Could this be just the beginning of a fresh wave of speedrunning records? With the re-releases and added content on the horizon, it’s only a matter of time before the race to rewrite the leaderboards kicks into high gear.

Stay tuned—Breath of the Wild on Switch 2 might just usher in the next golden age of Zelda speedrunning!

Choose Your Adventure