Nintendo lets indie studio make a Zelda game

Brace Yourself Games, the devs behind Crypt of the Necrodancer, are making a groovin' action game in the Zelda series.

Nintendo is typically fiercely protective over its IPs--sometimes to a fault--so when it lets an indie studio create a game in something as big as the Zelda series, it says a lot. Introducing Cadence of Hyrule, a new spritely beat-based adventure set in the mystical land of Hyrule. The game is very much like Crypt of the Necrodancer but with a fantasy twist: not only does it take place in that beloved world of yore with its castles, moblins, armos knights, and fearsome bosses, but Link and Zelda are playable characters. And they both have some serious moves.

Cadence of Hyrule features 25 randomly generated dungeons and a shifting overworld to match, complete with unique movesets, weapons, items, and content found in The Legend of Zelda franchise. Since indies are a huge hit on the Switch, this move lets Nintendo earn some cash via licensing, create more brand awareness for its core franchises, and help promote a strong indie in the process.

via GIPHY

The game is set to release in Spring 2019 exclusively on the Nintendo Switch.

Check below for more details:

In the latest rhythmic action-adventure from Brace Yourself Games, you can enjoy the gameplay of Crypt of the NecroDancer in the setting of The Legend of Zelda series. As Link - or even as Princess Zelda - you'll explore the randomly generated overworld and dungeons on a quest to save Hyrule. Every beat of each remixed The Legend of Zelda tune is a chance to move, attack, defend, and more, so stay one step ahead of each enemy and boss...or face the music.

From modern-looking Lynels to the Hyrulean Soldiers of old, you must master the instinctive movements of each pixel-art enemy, and strategically outstep them in rhythmic combat. Equip yourself with an arsenal of iconic The Legend of Zelda items, as well as the spells and weapons from Crypt of the NecroDancer. You must be prepared to face Hyrule's most wicked bosses, which have been transformed by magic, granting them mighty, new forms.

• A rhythmic action-adventure game in the world of The Legend of Zelda series
• Explore the randomly generated overworld and dungeons to save Hyrule as Link or Princess Zelda
• Use items from The Legend of Zelda series, plus spells and weapons from Crypt of the NecroDancer
• Outstep legendary enemies and bosses in rhythmic combat
• Keep the beat with 25 remixed classic The Legend of Zelda tunes