Review: "Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment" Balances Chaos and Style
The “Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment” spin-off feels like “Tears of the Kingdom” fan fiction tailored for players seeking high-intensity action. Despite its formulaic story, the game benefits from smooth cooperative play and energetic visual flair.
“Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment,” out Thursday, isn’t subtle. You endure predictable plotlines and admittedly splendid animation.
While “The Legend of Zelda” series became known for exploration, puzzle-solving, and dynamic combat, the “Hyrule Warriors” titles focus solely on fast-paced battles. This one amplifies the action, leaving behind the quiet, reflective elements of its parent series to celebrate overwhelming spectacle and thrilling strikes.
The thing is, sometimes such fluff is all you have capacity for.
For the reviewer, the game fits perfectly into a life constrained by limited time. As a new parent, they appreciate its short but satisfying encounters lasting between four and twenty minutes. Unlike the dense and challenging “Hollow Knight: Silksong,” this game offers quick bursts of entertainment ideal for short sessions.
However, it’s best not to expect intricate storytelling or twists. “Age of Imprisonment” delivers more in common with the carefree horde-smashing joy of “Vampire Survivors” than with the rich narratives of the mainline Zelda titles.
It may as well be fan fiction.
Author’s Summary
Dynamic yet shallow, “Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment” provides quick, stylish combat for players seeking simple thrills over storytelling depth.