Download & Installation
Platform Availability
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is officially released exclusively for Nintendo Switch and Wii U. It is not available on PC, PlayStation, Xbox, or mobile platforms. Any claims otherwise refer to unofficial emulation, which violates Nintendo's terms of service and is not covered in this guide.
---
Official Download Sources
Nintendo Switch
- Digital: Nintendo eShop on the Nintendo Switch console.
- Physical: Game card from authorized retailers (e.g., Amazon, Best Buy, GameStop).
- Digital: Nintendo eShop on the Wii U console.
- Physical: Disc from authorized retailers.
Wii U
Note: Both versions are identical in content, but the Switch version runs at a higher resolution (900p docked, 720p handheld) compared to Wii U (720p).
---
Step-by-Step Installation
Nintendo Switch (Digital)
1. Ensure System Update: Go to System Settings → System → System Update and install the latest firmware.
2. Open Nintendo eShop: From the HOME menu, select the eShop icon.
3. Sign In: Use your Nintendo Account (or create one if needed).
4. Search for Game: Use the search function or browse the "The Legend of Zelda" section.
5. Purchase & Download: Select "Proceed to Purchase" and confirm. The download begins automatically.
6. Monitor Download: Check download progress from the HOME menu (highlight the downloading icon).
7. Play: Once complete, the game icon appears on the HOME menu. Select to launch.
Nintendo Switch (Physical)
1. Insert Game Card: With the console powered on or in sleep mode, insert the game card into the slot (label facing forward).
2. Download Updates (if any): The console will prompt to download the latest update. Select "Download".
3. Launch: The game icon appears. Select to start playing.
Wii U (Digital)
1. Update Console: Go to System Settings → System Update and install the latest firmware.
2. Open Nintendo eShop: From the Wii U Menu, select the eShop icon.
3. Sign In: Link your Nintendo Network ID.
4. Locate the Game: Search for "Breath of the Wild".
5. Purchase & Download: Confirm purchase and download. The download can be checked in Download Management.
6. Install: After download, the game appears on the Wii U Menu. Launch to play.
Wii U (Physical)
1. Insert Disc: Place the disc into the Wii U disc drive (top slot).
2. Install Update: If prompted, download the latest patch.
3. Play: The game icon appears on the Wii U Menu.
---
System Requirements (Console Specifications)
Nintendo Switch
| Aspect | Minimum / Base | Recommended / Docked |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | 13.4 GB free space (digital) | 32 GB internal or microSD (for DLC & updates) |
| Internet | Required for initial download & updates | Broadband for DLC (Expansion Pass) |
| Controller | Joy‑Cons (included) | Pro Controller recommended |
| Display | 6.2" 720p handheld | 1080p docked via HDMI |
| Account | Nintendo Account (free) | Nintendo Switch Online optional |
Wii U
| Aspect | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | 13 GB free space (digital) | 32 GB Deluxe model or external USB HDD |
| Internet | Required for digital download & updates | Broadband for DLC |
| Controller | Wii U GamePad (included) | Pro Controller for alternative play |
| Display | 720p via HDMI or composite | 1080p scaling supported |
| Account | Nintendo Network ID (free) | N/A |
Storage Space
- Digital Download Size: Approximately 13.4 GB on both Switch and Wii U.
- Updates / DLC:
- Total with all content: ~18–19 GB.
- Recommended: At least 25 GB free on Switch (internal or microSD) and 20 GB on Wii U (system memory or external drive).
- Nintendo Account (email-based, free to create) required for eShop purchases and digital downloads. No subscription needed for base game.
- Nintendo Switch Online (optional) required only for online features like leaderboards or if a future online component is added (currently none).
- Nintendo Network ID (NNID) required for eShop access and digital purchases. Free to create.
- Version 1.6.0 update: ~2.2 GB (Switch).
- Expansion Pass (DLC 1 & 2): ~2.5 GB total.
---
Account Requirements
Nintendo Switch
Wii U
---
First Launch Setup
1. Language Selection: Choose from available languages (English, French, German, Spanish, etc.).
2. Brightness Calibration: Adjust screen brightness to make the logo barely visible (crucial for certain shrines).
3. Control Scheme: The game teaches basic controls during the opening cutscene. No separate configuration needed.
4. System Link (Wii U): The game uses the GamePad for inventory and map; no extra pairing.
5. Installation of Shaders (Switch): On first boot, the game may compile shaders – this is normal and takes a few minutes.
6. Save Data: Create a save slot. The game autosaves frequently.
---
Common Installation Errors & Fixes
| Error | Platform | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insufficient storage space | Both | Not enough free space for download/update | Delete unused software or add a microSD (Switch) / external HDD (Wii U). Ensure format is correct (FAT32 for Switch, Wii U formats automatically). |
| Download stuck or slow | Both | Poor internet connection or eShop congestion | Pause and resume download. Move console closer to router or use wired connection. Check Nintendo server status. |
| Corrupted data / error code | Switch | File corruption during download | Go to System Settings → Data Management → Manage Software → Select game → Check for Corrupt Data. If found, redownload. |
| Cannot launch game after download | Switch | System software outdated | Update system firmware via System Settings → System → System Update. |
| eShop connection error (e.g., 2155-8007) | Both | Account region mismatch or server outage | Ensure account region matches the game’s region. Try later. Re-link account. |
| Physical card not recognized | Switch | Dirty contacts or faulty cart | Clean contacts with a dry cloth. If persists, contact Nintendo support. |
| Wii U disc read error | Wii U | Dirty disc or drive issue | Clean disc with microfiber cloth. If continues, consider Wii U repair. |
| DLC not showing after purchase | Both | DLC not downloaded or not linked to correct account | Redownload from eShop → Redownloadable Software. Ensure same account used. |
Post-Installation Verification
After installing, perform these checks to confirm a successful setup:
1. Launch the Game: The title screen should appear without errors. A short cinematic starts.
2. Check Version Number: From the title screen menu, select Options → Version. Latest is 1.6.0 (May 2023).
3. Test Controls: Move Link using the left stick, interact with objects (A button). Verify sound and vibration.
4. Save & Load: Create a manual save from the pause menu. Then reload from the title screen → Load Game.
5. DLC Verification (if purchased): In-game, press X on the map to open the DLC quest list. You should see "The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Expansion Pass" active.
6. Performance: Ensure stable 30 fps (both platforms) with no excessive stuttering. On Switch, check for overheating.
7. Storage Check: On Switch, go to System Settings → Data Management → Manage Software → Breath of the Wild. Total size should be ~13.4 GB base + updates.
---
Additional Notes
- PC / Emulation: The game can technically be played on PC via the Cemu emulator (Wii U version) or Yuzu/Ryujinx (Switch version), but these require a legally obtained game dump and a powerful computer. This guide does not cover emulation; it is not an official platform. Use at your own risk and only if you own the original game.
- Cross-Save: Not available between Switch and Wii U versions.
- Download Codes: If you purchased a digital code from a retailer, redeem it on the eShop (Select "Enter Code").
- Pre-Install on New Switch: If you bought a Nintendo Switch bundle that includes the game pre-installed, simply power on and follow on-screen prompts.