Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is a strong collaboration between Koei Tecmo and Nintendo, offering a few unexpected surprises. Having played numerous "Warriors" games over the years, I thought I knew what to expect, but this title delivers something special.
While the game focuses on intense battles like its predecessors, it includes what feels like the closest experience to a new Star Fox game in nearly ten years. Players can fly and shoot in a way reminiscent of Star Fox, effectively embedding a mini Star Fox game within the Warriors experience.
Age of Imprisonment follows a similar approach to Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, serving as a prequel to The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. It builds directly on the systems and mechanics introduced in Age of Calamity while integrating unique elements from Tears of the Kingdom.
The game stands out as one of the most compelling Warriors titles in recent years, with a narrative that enhances the story of Tears of the Kingdom.
The story centers on the Imprisoning War against Ganandorf, which sets the stage for the events in Tears of the Kingdom. It unfolds entirely in the distant past and features Princess Zelda teaming up with King Rauru and Queen Sonia.
“...I genuinely did not expect that this would be the closest thing we’ve gotten to a new Star Fox game where you can fly and shoot in nearly a decade.”
Author's summary: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment revitalizes the Warriors series with fresh gameplay and a unique Star Fox-inspired flying segment, enriching the Zelda lore with a compelling prequel story.