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Images purportedly showing a special edition Nintendo Switch OLED themed after The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have surfaced online. The leaked images appeared on the Famiiboard forum, posted by user Kysen. It’s currently unclear where the user found these images or if they possess the console. The possibility that the images are fake hasn’t been ruled out.

Examining the Leaked Console Design

Assuming the leaked images are genuine, the console boasts several noteworthy design elements. The Joy-Con controllers feature a gold color scheme, each adorned with intricate designs. These patterns are echoed on the white dock, which also includes a gold Tri-Force emblem.

Leaked image of the Nintendo Switch OLED Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom edition Joy-Cons

Similar to the Pokemon Scarlet/Violet and Splatoon 3 Nintendo Switch OLED editions, this bundle doesn’t appear to include the game itself. This suggests a potential release date before The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launches on May 12th.

Leaked image of the Nintendo Switch OLED Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom edition dock

From Breath of the Wild 2 to Tears of the Kingdom

Back in June 2021, after a two-year silence following Breath of the Wild, Nintendo released a new trailer for its sequel, tentatively titled Breath of the Wild 2, and confirmed a 2022 release window. The game was subsequently delayed to Spring 2023 and officially renamed Tears of the Kingdom earlier this year.

Close-up of the design on the Nintendo Switch OLED Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom edition

Tears of the Kingdom reportedly evolved from DLC ideas for Breath of the Wild, hinting at the expansion of mechanics introduced in the previous installment. Nintendo has suggested a darker tone for the sequel, with Zelda series Creative Lead, Eiji Aonuma, citing Red Dead Redemption 2 as an inspiration for the development team.

Conclusion: Awaiting Official Confirmation

While these leaked images offer a tantalizing glimpse at a potential Tears of the Kingdom themed Switch OLED, it’s crucial to remember that they are unconfirmed. The design certainly aligns with the game’s aesthetic, and a dedicated console release alongside a major title like this would be a typical move for Nintendo. However, until official confirmation from Nintendo, it’s best to treat these images with cautious optimism. We eagerly await further news and announcements regarding this potential special edition console.