Speedrunner reaches Breath of the Wild credits on Switch 2, a console which isn't even out yet

Engadget - Apr 29th, 2025

In an impressive feat, Japanese speedrunner Ikaboze has completed the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition demo of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in just seven minutes, beating the final boss Ganon at a preview event in Tokyo. This achievement was accomplished during a 10-minute demo session of the enhanced game, marking the first completion of the demo as confirmed by Nintendo staff. The event showcased the improved performance, resolution, and HDR support of the Nintendo Switch 2, ahead of its global launch on June 5.

The renewed interest in these beloved Zelda titles, especially with the advancements in gaming technology, highlights Nintendo's commitment to enhancing the gaming experience. The upcoming release also includes a new Zelda companion app for tracking Koroks and shrines, and allows existing game owners to upgrade for a minimal fee. With the public eager to explore these enhancements, Ikaboze's remarkable achievement sets a high bar for future players and underscores the burgeoning community of dedicated speedrunners.

Nintendo Switch 2 The Legend Of Zelda Breath Of The Wild Ikaboze Speedrunning Gaming Events

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RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a largely accurate and engaging account of a speedrunning event involving the Nintendo Switch 2. Its strengths lie in its clarity, timeliness, and appeal to gaming enthusiasts. However, it could benefit from more balanced perspectives and greater transparency regarding its sourcing. While it effectively captures the interest of its target audience, its broader impact and public interest are limited. Overall, the article is a well-structured piece that informs readers about a specific event within the gaming community.

Accuracy

The article is largely accurate in its reporting of the Nintendo Switch 2 and the speedrunner Ikaboze's achievement. The launch date of the Nintendo Switch 2 is correctly stated as June 5, and the description of the speedrunning event aligns with available information. However, there are minor discrepancies, such as the exact duration of the demo time given to attendees, which is mentioned as 10 minutes, though some sources suggest it might have been longer. Additionally, the article claims that Ikaboze was the first to complete the demo, which is supported by the event's reports but would benefit from direct confirmation from Nintendo staff.

Balance

The article primarily focuses on the achievement of the speedrunner Ikaboze, offering a positive portrayal of his accomplishment. While it provides a detailed account of the event, it does not explore other perspectives, such as reactions from other attendees or insights from Nintendo representatives. This focus on a single narrative may limit the breadth of viewpoints presented, though it is not overtly biased.

Clarity

The article is well-written and easy to follow, with a clear structure that guides the reader through the main points. The language is straightforward, and the narrative flows logically from the introduction of the Nintendo Switch 2 to the specifics of the speedrunning event. The tone is neutral and informative, making the content accessible to a broad audience.

Source quality

The article cites VGC as a source for the information about the event, which is a credible outlet in the gaming industry. However, it lacks direct quotes or confirmations from Nintendo or event organizers, which would enhance the reliability of the claims. The reliance on a single source without additional corroboration slightly diminishes the overall source quality.

Transparency

The article does not provide detailed information about its sources beyond mentioning VGC, nor does it disclose any potential conflicts of interest. It lacks transparency regarding the methodology used to verify the claims, such as whether the author attended the event or relied solely on third-party reports. Greater transparency about the information-gathering process would improve the article's credibility.