Koei Tecmo’s Hyrule Warriors spin-off, Age of Imprisonment, has officially received an age rating in Brazil — and Zelda fans everywhere are buzzing that it could mean a new Nintendo Direct is just around the corner.
The Brazilian board has classified the title as suitable for ages 12‒plus, despite Nintendo reportedly requesting a 10+ rating. While ratings don’t guarantee imminent release, they typically mark a game that’s nearing its final, polished form. This comes after Nintendo already pegged Age of Imprisonment for release “this winter” on the Nintendo Switch 2 — though an exact release date has yet to be announced.
With Donkey Kong Bananza now out and July’s Pokémon Presents wrapped up, fans are eyeing the end of July as the most likely window for a surprise Nintendo Direct — and what better opportunity to reveal a release date for Age of Imprisonment and unveil more upcoming Switch 2 titles
Why This Matters for Zelda Fans
- Rating reveals often coincide with governments reviewing a nearly completed version of the game — so it hints that development is reaching its final stages.
- Nintendo has already confirmed Age of Imprisonment for the Switch 2 and said it’s coming this winter — but determining whether winter means December 2025 or January 2026 is still up in the air.
- A Direct this July would be the perfect moment to drop a release date and showcase more Switch 2 Zelda projects, like the rumored Animal Crossing sequel and other new titles.
What to Watch For on Zelda Central
- Release Date Drop: Will Nintendo confirm whether “this winter” means 2025 or early 2026?
- New Gameplay Trailer: Expect more footage featuring Princess Zelda, King Rauru, and massive Musou-style battles.
- Possible Bonus Announcements: Watch for news on upgrades to Age of Calamity, a possible trilogy collection, or other upcoming Zelda spin-offs.
As Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment inches closer to launch, all eyes are on Nintendo — a summer reveal could be just days away. Let us know your predictions — release dates? new characters? full trilogy? We want to hear what Zelda fans are hoping to see.
