Zelda producer reflects on the shift from linear to open-world games

Zelda producer Eiji Aonuma believes that linear games are "games of the past" and prefers modern games that offer players more freedom and flexibility in their gameplay. While he understands the nostalgia for traditional linear Zelda games, Aonuma emphasizes the design philosophy of the Zelda team at Nintendo, which focuses on allowing players to make their own decisions. However, he acknowledges that developing games with such freedom comes with additional costs. The next Zelda game is unlikely to be a direct sequel to Tears of the Kingdom, as Aonuma believes people tend to desire what they don't currently have.