(Image credit: Nintendo)
Ever since the Xbox 360 introduced the concept of achievements and trophies back in 2005, a number of Nintendo fans have eagerly awaited the company’s unique spin on this popular feature. Finally, Nintendo has responded by introducing achievements with the Switch 2 versions of its beloved open-world games, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. However, there’s a catch — it’s available for a price.
During the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct presentation, fans got a glimpse of the enhanced editions of these iconic Zelda games. Alongside improved framerates, particularly in areas like the notorious Korok Forest, and higher resolutions, the main highlight is the integration with the Nintendo App. This new feature allows players not only to set waypoints and uncover secrets from their phone but also to track achievements, such as the number of shrines completed or rupees collected, adding a fresh layer of engagement to the gameplay.
NINTENDO’S ACHIEVEMENTS SYSTEM debuted with much excitement: “ZELDA’S GONNA HAVE AN ACHIEVEMENT SYSTEM LET’S GOOO” tweeted a fan in celebration on April 2, 2025.
Nintendo is yet to disclose the exact pricing for these upgrades in most regions, though reports from the Japanese Nintendo website suggest an upgrade cost of 1,000 yen (approximately $10) for each game. This has raised eyebrows, as some consider this a high price for a seemingly modest next-gen upgrade. However, players who subscribe to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack can access these upgrades at no additional charge.
The allure of achievements lies not only in their ability to measure cross-game progress tied to your account but also in encouraging players to experiment in unique and unexpected ways for that coveted 100% completion. Unfortunately, the Zelda achievements appear to follow a checklist style, simply marking off tasks accomplished across Hyrule. This may be a letdown for some, as one of the praised aspects of Breath of the Wild was its departure from the rigid checklist format typical in modern open-world games. Exploration was, for many, an end in itself, not merely a quest to complete predefined tasks.
For those eager to discover more about the upcoming Switch 2 games and the lineup launching on June 5, there are plenty of options to explore. Weekly insights, community stories, and much more await enthusiastic gamers.