A few days ago, a completed version of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom was leaked online. To avoid spoilers that could potentially ruin the entire game experience, we recommend steering clear of these leaks.
However, you can now preload the new Zelda adventure for the Nintendo Switch on your console, without any risk of encountering spoilers, provided certain conditions are met. Read on for details about the download, game size, and release!
Preloading Tears of the Kingdom
Although The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has not been officially released yet, we previously reported on leaks and complete streams showcasing the gameplay.
Unwanted by Nintendo, these leaks may contain spoilers that could mar your gaming experience. Fortunately, you can download the game onto your console without relying on unofficial leaks, in the form of a preload.
The preload is currently available and consists of 16.2 GB of game data. If you want to avoid long download times on the release day or have a slow internet connection, preloading is a worthwhile option.
However, this is only possible if you have pre-ordered the digital version of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom through the Nintendo eShop. The physical version will contain most of the game data on the cartridge, minimizing installation times.
Release Date, Preview, and More for Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is set to launch exclusively for the Nintendo Switch on May 12th, 2023. According to Nintendo’s US customer portal, the precise release time is 12 AM Eastern Time, allowing you to embark on the adventure quite early. Similar to its predecessor Breath of the Wild, the game has a USK age rating of 12 years.
Interestingly, Tears of the Kingdom is the first Nintendo game to cost €10 more than the usual launch price. As a result, the standard edition is priced at €69.99, sparking a minor controversy prior to its release.
The Standard Edition is still available for pre-order, but the Collector’s Edition, priced at €130, has unfortunately been sold out for some time.