Tears of the Kingdom: How Zelda’s escapism helps some fans

The release of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has been a huge success, breaking sales records and gaining widespread acclaim for its open world, exploration-focused gameplay and rich depth. Many fans have taken to social media to share gameplay videos and express their enthusiasm for the game.

For some fans, Zelda and its associated communities have played a significant role in helping them through difficult times. The series is known for providing a sense of escapism, allowing players to immerse themselves in a vast world and explore at their own pace.

Derby Munns, a Nintendo fan and Twitch streamer, turned to the prequel Breath of the Wild (BotW) during a challenging period of bereavement. She describes the game as a means of taking her mind off real-life difficulties and providing a break from her emotions. Derby also found solace in the game’s exploration of themes like memory and bereavement, finding resonance with her personal experiences.

Amber Elphick, another fan of the series, found comfort in playing Zelda: Breath of the Wild during a time of transition when she was moving away from home. The game helped her feel grounded as she connected with a large community of gamers who were also playing the game. Amber now runs a Nintendo fan community, emphasizing how these online communities have fostered meaningful connections and support for individuals like herself.

Derby and Amber both highlight the power of games like Zelda in facilitating social connections. When faced with challenges or difficulties in finding like-minded individuals in real life, games can provide a platform for meeting people and building communities based on shared interests and experiences.

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