[Play Report] "Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity" Early Impressions Ahead of Release. The Latest Musou Action Adventure Depicting Zelda's Vanished Heroics in the Past Finally Arrives
Note: the original Japanese article can be found at:
https://www.4gamer.net/games/898/G089833/20251030056/
Writer: Inomoto Tetsuya | 2025/11/04 14:00 (UTC)
Koei Tecmo Games’ upcoming title, Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War, scheduled for release on November 6, 2025, is the latest installment in the “Zelda Hyrule Warriors” series, following the 2020 release of Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity.
By shifting to the Nintendo Switch 2 platform, this game features enhanced frame rates and visuals, further amplifying the series’ signature one-vs-many battles. On the story front, it takes place in ancient Hyrule, shortly after the events of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (TotK), where Princess Zelda—having vanished into the depths beneath the light at the start of TotK—awakens and embarks on a journey to fight through the legendary “War of Sealing,” making it an intriguing title for fans of the series.
This time, we were granted early access to play the game, so here is our pre-release impression. To avoid spoiling key plot points, this report focuses mainly on gameplay feel and systems—ideal reading material for those considering a purchase.
Enjoy the “Musou” action as Zelda and her allies defeat countless enemies Thumbnail image No.002 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Official website for “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War”
The stage is ancient Hyrule, shortly after the founding of the Kingdom
As previously mentioned, this game takes place far earlier than TotK—during the time of the long-lost “War of Sealing,” a period only hinted at before. Visually, however, it shares familiar aesthetics with TotK, creating a similar atmosphere and tone.
When Zelda arrives in this era, she is rescued by Hyrule’s first king, Laur, and his queen, Sonia. As they search for a way back to their original time, Zelda becomes entangled in the legendary war later known as the “War of Sealing.”
Zelda wearing new attire different from her original look (right). She will fight in this form throughout the main story Thumbnail image No.003 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Thanks to the new platform, graphical improvements are immediately noticeable. Unlike previous entries, which occasionally revealed hardware limitations, this game runs smoothly without such concerns—delivering high frame rate Musou action in full force.
This holds true across both tabletop and handheld modes. Watching countless enemies move fluidly on screen was genuinely impressive.
From my own playthrough, I experienced no visible drops in frame rate throughout, resulting in consistently comfortable gameplay Thumbnail image No.004 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Gameplay mechanics follow previous “Zelda Hyrule Warriors” titles: defeat large enemy groups and formidable foes through a combination of normal attacks and strong attacks. In “Battles,” you lead multiple characters, switching between them in real time for dynamic combat.
Companion characters can be switched using the directional buttons. The small voice lines exchanged during swaps add charm Thumbnail image No.005 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Pressing the [Y] button a set number of times before activating the strong attack via [X] changes the finishing move based on how many times you pressed [Y]. Knowing when to use each variation is key. Additionally, pressing and holding [R], then tapping [A], [B], [X], or [Y] triggers “Special Actions,” which can be customized with character-specific “Unique Skills” or the aforementioned “Zonau Gear.”
The “Action Flow” display appears on the left side of the screen, showing your combo sequence. It typically shows up when you learn a new move but can also be kept visible at all times Thumbnail image No.006 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
You can use special actions that counter strong enemy attacks, dodge precisely to launch a flurry of strikes, or switch with allies at the right moment during critical situations while receiving their support. These strategic layers mean battles never become mindless button mashing.
For enemies with high durability, a hexagonal weak point gauge appears. Attacking it reduces this gauge; when depleted to zero, you can deliver massive damage via “Smash” attacks Thumbnail image No.007 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Strong enemy attacks are marked with a red effect. Using an appropriate special action counters them and allows you to chip away more of the weak point gauge in follow-up strikes Thumbnail image No.008 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Still, these mechanics are optional advantages—there’s no requirement to use them for progression. Input timing isn’t overly strict, and tutorials are provided for most systems, so even players less experienced with action games can gradually pick up the skills as they play.
The satisfying experience of effortlessly defeating enemies through simple button mashing is one of Musou’s core joys. With four difficulty levels available, it should be enjoyable even if you’re not particularly skilled at action games Thumbnail image No.009 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Moreover, a new addition this time is “Synchro Strike,” one of the game’s standout features. This powerful team move requires both you and your ally to have their “Sync Gauge” full, then pressing [L] near each other to activate. When executed well, it delivers devastating results. The attack type changes drastically depending on which characters are paired together, making choosing combinations a key strategic element.
Synchro Strikes launch with cinematic cut-in effects. Some pairs even have custom Synchro Strikes—like Zelda & Laur, who fire a controllable beam Thumbnail image No.010 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past Thumbnail image No.011 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
With Zelda & Minel, a massive golem is summoned and Zelda rides it—allowing temporary control for a set duration Thumbnail image No.012 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past Thumbnail image No.013 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Battlefields spread across land, underground, and sky—with monsters blocking the way
The world of Hyrule features three distinct zones—“Land,” “Underground,” and “Sky”— mirroring TotK’s design. As the story progresses, missions such as “Battles” and “Hyrule Challenges” unlock across these areas.
Icons appearing on the map signal upcoming Battles or Hyrule Challenges Thumbnail image No.014 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Battles involve commanding your chosen characters to fight enemy swarms and opposing factions on the battlefield. Navigate toward designated objectives, defeat armies led by powerful foes, and secure surrounding areas to advance your campaign favorably. Each zone also allows placement of “Campgrounds,” where you can restock healing items and other supplies upon capture.
Check equipment and stats before entering a battle—also select team members here Thumbnail image No.015 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Placing materials at campgrounds grants special effects when visiting. You can also use them before battles—don’t forget! Thumbnail image No.016 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
The primary goal of each Battle varies by map: on land, it’s about subduing monster hordes; underground, exploration is the focus. Rewards also differ accordingly—so tackle missions based on your preferences.
Underground Battles center around exploration. Each area introduces different enemies Thumbnail image No.017 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
In contrast, Hyrule Challenges consume materials gathered from Battles to upgrade characters, unlock new facilities or story content. Playable character levels increase through Battle progress, enhancing stats—but acquiring Unique Skills and increasing Heart capacity happen exclusively via Hyrule Challenges, making it essential to pursue them whenever they appear.
Hyrule Challenge icons appearing on the map clearly indicate which character can be upgraded Thumbnail image No.019 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Even more fun if you know the references. The game system masterfully elevates TotK’s world
What surprised me most during play was how seamlessly this title integrates and reimagines elements from Tears of the Kingdom into unique gameplay mechanics.
Many enemies are familiar, so tactics learned in TotK apply here. You know what to do when you see this state, right? Thumbnail image No.020 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Though there’s no jump ability here, reducing a weak point gauge allows you to strike vulnerabilities Thumbnail image No.021 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
A prime example is “Zonau Gear.” These are items that can be equipped to characters’ special actions, granting them unique attacks based on the gear’s properties. Each Zonau Gear mirrors TotK’s attributes—for instance, “Head of the Fire Dragon” shoots flames forward like a flamethrower; “Timer Bakudan” deals blast damage; and “Cannon” fires projectiles in any direction—allowing flexible use depending on battlefield conditions.
Zonau Gears come with elemental attributes such as fire, ice, or lightning. Some can be placed to sustain effects while dealing continuous damage Thumbnail image No.022 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Using Zonau Gears requires a shared “Battery.” Used batteries recharge over time, but equipped “Spare Batteries” allow for faster recovery Thumbnail image No.023 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Beyond Zonau Gears alone, every aspect—from using materials at campgrounds during Battles to discovering hidden Collog in the field, from terrain and weather influencing battle design to attacks incorporating TotK’s elements like Minel or mysterious golems—has been thoughtfully integrated into systems that genuinely impress. You’ll find yourself thinking, “Ah, so this is how it works!”
Even font styles in cutscenes are identical to TotK, reinforcing the sense of being a true sequel Thumbnail image No.024 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Minel uses a different Zonau Gear than her blueprint-built equipment, launching attacks via this unique gear Thumbnail image No.025 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Hidden Collog along the path. “I’m so tired… I can’t move at all…” Thumbnail image No.026 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Diverse playable characters. What are the mysterious golem and Karomo’s true intentions?
Playable characters gradually increase as the game progresses. Even though each character performs different actions when controlled, all feel unique and compelling—though you can stick with a favorite if desired. Switching between them mid-battle is also possible, giving great flexibility.
Characters differ not only in action style but also in Unique Skills, Synchro Strike combinations, and attack attributes Thumbnail image No.027 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Among them, one standout character is the “Mysterious Golem.” Unlike standard work or guard golems found in ruins, this one has a heroic presence and plays a major role in the story. Its true identity unfolds as you progress through the game.
The mysterious golem appears as Karomo’s companion—though it doesn’t speak Thumbnail image No.028 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Equipped with a Zonanium sword, it can also wield other weapons—changing its weapon-dependent Unique Skills accordingly. Its own skills include “Limit Break,” which boosts the effect and duration of equipped Zonau Gear, and “Scrap Attack,” which converts monster-dropped materials into attack power. Additionally, equipping a Zonau Gear to strong attacks adds elemental attributes—giving it broader offensive options than other characters.
The mysterious golem extends its weapon arm like a whip for powerful combos Thumbnail image No.029 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Scrap Attack consumes materials for continuous attacks. Be mindful of material counts, as consumption is high Thumbnail image No.030 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Equipping a Zonau Gear to strong attacks adds elemental properties. Since this consumes battery, use it wisely Thumbnail image No.031 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
Karomo, the traveling Collog accompanying the mysterious golem, is also playable. While TotK’s Collogs were known for their cuteness, Karomo delivers powerful attacks from its small frame and uses various fruits and materials in unique ways—making it an excellent partner to the golem. Offering a different perspective on the War of Sealing compared to Zelda’s team, Karomo’s journey is definitely worth experiencing firsthand.
Though tiny, Karomo packs serious punch—even when lost among hordes of enemies. Strong attacks can be enhanced with fruit-based elemental effects Thumbnail image No.032 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
While faithfully preserving TotK’s world and character charm, this game also delivers clear evolution of the “Zelda Hyrule Warriors” series. It’s far too well-crafted to be dismissed as a mere spin-off—this is a title worth experiencing for everyone. Whether you’ve played TotK extensively or are new to the Zelda universe, now may be the perfect time to dive in.
Action set pieces come fast and furious, keeping players engaged Thumbnail image No.033 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past Thumbnail image No.034 / [Play Report] Pre-release impressions of “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War.” The latest Musou action arrives, depicting Zelda’s forgotten exploits in the past
As a completely new title exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2, it’s an eagerly awaited release for those who’ve just acquired the new hardware. It’s the ideal game to truly feel the power of this next-gen machine—highly recommended.
Official website for “Zelda Hyrule Warriors: Seal of the War”