Review: 'Zelda' spin-off 'Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment' is as brainless as it is cathartic

Review: 'Zelda' spin-off 'Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment'

An adrenaline-fueled fan fiction experience

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment feels like Tears of Kingdom fan fiction designed for adrenaline junkies. While it features a formulaic plot and gameplay, its engaging co-op mode and striking style help elevate the experience.

Gameplay and story elements

The game, released Thursday, lacks subtlety, offering predictable storylines paired with splendid animation. Though I've never connected with typical “musou” games before, this title refreshes my tired mind like a cool breeze.

The core “Legend of Zelda” games, especially on Nintendo Switch, are celebrated for a blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. However, Hyrule Warriors spinoffs focus solely on combat, intensifying action and emphasizing bombastic battles with dazzling special attacks, leaving behind the thoughtful elements of the original franchise.

Perfect pacing for a new dad

For someone like me, a new dad with limited gaming time, Age of Imprisonment fits smoothly into a sleep-deprived lifestyle better than more demanding games like Hollow Knight: Silksong. Its battles last comfortably between four and twenty minutes, making it easy to enjoy in short bursts.

Less story, more horde-smashing fun

Don't expect a deep narrative or surprises. This game shares more similarities with the horde-based gameplay of Vampire Survivors than with the classic “Legend of Zelda” series.

“Age of Imprisonment may as well be fan fiction.”

Summary: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment delivers exhilarating combat and accessible sessions, offering cathartic fun at the cost of narrative depth and franchise complexity.

WBUR — 2025-11-06