Review: 'Zelda' Spin-Off 'Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment' Balances Chaos and Charm
By an overtired gamer turned reviewer.
"Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment" plays like "Tears of the Kingdom" fan fiction built for adrenaline seekers. Its cooperative mode and stylish presentation partly redeem a repetitive plot and formulaic mechanics.
“Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment,” out Thursday, isn’t subtle. You endure predictable plotlines and admittedly splendid animation.
The game strips away exploration and puzzle-solving, leaving nonstop action and extravagant attacks. It transforms the thoughtful adventure of "The Legend of Zelda" into an explosive spectacle focused purely on combat.
The reviewer confesses that although they never connected with the "musou" genre before, this title struck the right tone: simple, loud, and strangely soothing—like a cool breeze for an exhausted mind.
"As a new dad, 'Age of Imprisonment' has fit into my sleep-deprived life far more easily than deep, demanding games like 'Hollow Knight: Silksong.'"
With quick sessions lasting four to twenty minutes, the game suits short bursts of play. Yet, players should not expect much narrative depth or surprise. Its spirit aligns more with the chaotic fun of “Vampire Survivors” than with the rich storytelling of the classic Zelda saga.
Author’s Summary
The review portrays "Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment" as mindless yet satisfying, offering fast-paced thrills that fit neatly into a busy, exhausted player's life.