The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is set for release on May 12 for Nintendo Switch. But when, exactly, does the game become available and can you pre-load it? We are still awaiting confirmation on both, but the clues are out there.
A listing on Nintendo’s website states that digital software also sold physically for Switch will “usually” be available starting at 9 PM PT the night before the official release date. If this does indeed apply to Tears of the Kingdom, then it looks like players can jump in starting at 9 PM PT on May 11 and 12 AM ET on May 12.
GameSpot has contacted Nintendo in an attempt to confirm the precision launch time for Tears of the Kingdom’s digital release. GameRant first reported on this.
Pre-loading details for Tears of the Kingdom have not been announced. However, Nintendo’s own FAQ states that pre-loading may begin as soon as May 5, but there is no exact confirmation yet. Tears of the Kingdom is a beefy game, at 16GB, so it’ll be nice to be able to preload. GameSpot has contacted Nintendo regarding the pre-loading information, too.
Tears of the Kingdom has already found its way into the hands of some people, so be mindful of spoilers for the next week or so. Also watch out, because if you got an early copy, former Nintendo boss Reggie Fils-Aime is hunting you down.
Expectations are high for Tears of the Kingdom, both in terms of quality and commercial success. After all, Breath of the Wild was critically adored and has sold more than 29 million units, so the sequel has very large shoes to fill.
