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The Power of UGC: A Lesson from Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom for Web3 Games

Learn how Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom innovative approach to user-generated content can inspire Web3 games, underscoring the importance of freedom of creativity.

Mostafa Salem author picture}

Mostafa Salem

Head of Gaming Research

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Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a masterclass in harnessing the power of user-generated content. By giving players the freedom to experiment, it sparks creativity and engages its community in a way that few other games can match. This approach could have profound implications for web3 games, underscoring the importance of freedom of creativity in the gaming world.

The latest addition to the storied Legend of Zelda franchise doesn't seek to reinvent the wheel but instead iterates on the formula established in 'Breath of the Wild.' The game’s director, Hidemaro Fujibayashi, and producer, Eiji Aonuma, saw untapped potential in the series and decided to add new ways to interact with the game world rather than creating a completely new one. The result? A fascinating mechanic that allows players to truly impact the game world.

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The game introduces Ultrahand and Fuse abilities, which give players the power to manipulate objects in the environment and combine them in ways never before seen in the series. Players can make clever combinations or completely absurd ones—the game doesn’t discriminate. The consequences of these actions, whether they lead to success or failure, are part of the learning curve and contribute to an engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more.

This freedom of creativity is a pivotal aspect of the game’s appeal and is something that could be incredibly beneficial for web3 games. The crypto world’s ethos is all about giving power back to users. Thus, the implementation of user-generated content seems a natural fit. By providing players with the tools to create and experiment within the game world, developers can foster a sense of ownership and deepen the connection between players and the game.

The creative freedom that Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom offers has spurred a wave of viral content on social media platforms. Clips of players' ingenious (or sometimes hilariously ill-conceived) uses of the Ultrahand and Fuse abilities are making the rounds on Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and more. 

These snippets of creativity and unexpected problem-solving have resonated with gamers and non-gamers alike. The game's unique blend of fun, whimsy, and strategic thinking has proven so appealing that many people are now purchasing a Nintendo Switch just to experience Tears of the Kingdom firsthand. This phenomenon serves as a testament to the power of user-generated content in both driving community engagement and boosting sales.

Such an approach can also cultivate a vibrant community, much like the one seen with Tears of the Kingdom. When players have the freedom to express their creativity and see the tangible impact of their actions on the game world, they feel more invested in the game. They are more likely to share their experiences, strategies, and creations, encouraging a rich exchange of ideas that strengthens community ties.

Moreover, user-generated content can keep a game fresh and exciting. The ability to experiment and create can lead to a virtually endless array of gameplay possibilities, ensuring the game’s longevity. This is especially crucial in the world of web3 games, where competition is fierce, and user retention is vital.

The example set by Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is a powerful one. Freedom of creativity isn't just a neat feature; it's a core component of a game's appeal and longevity. It fosters community engagement, sparks creativity, and allows for a level of personal investment that few other features can match.

Web3 game developers would do well to take a page from Nintendo's playbook. By embracing user-generated content and fostering freedom of creativity, they can create games that are not only enjoyable but also deeply engaging and community-driven. After all, in the age of Web3, the power is in the players' hands.


updated:

May 19th 2023

posted:

May 19th 2023

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