Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment brings the hack-and-slash action of the Dynasty Warriors series to the Nintendo Switch 2. As the third in the Hyrule Warriors series, the game is a fun and thrilling spinoff to the mainline Legend of Zelda franchise.

Taking place during Tears of the Kingdom, the title houses many elements from the 2023 game like Zonai weapons and familiar locales. With that said, should you play Tears of the Kingdom before you play Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment? We have the answer to that very question and more, including if you should play other Hyrule Warriors titles.

Do you need to play The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom before playing Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment?

While not required, playing The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom before Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment does help with understanding the story. However, the game catches you up to speed with Raura recounting what happened to Zelda at the beginning. So, if you need a refresher, rest assured that one is provided.

If you’re not too worried about spoilers for Zelda’s plot line in Tears of the Kingdom, you can play without worries. But if you want to go into ToTK blind, it’s best to save Age of Imprisonment until after you finish the game.

Should you play Hyrule Warriors before you play Age of Imprisonment?

Fortunately, for those who haven’t played a Hyrule Warriors game, it’s not required for enjoying Age of Imprisonment. Both Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition and Age of Calamity are great games, however, and are definitely worth trying if you like Age of Imprisonment (or simply want something fun to play). If you did want to play one to prep for Age of Imprisonment, it’s probably best to go for Age of Calamity since it takes place during Breath of the Wild, even though it’s not technically canon.

For more on Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment, check out how to unlock multiplayer.