Cadence of Hyrule makes Hyrule’s music part of every move. Guide Link or Zelda to the beat, learn enemy patterns and explore a map whose arrangement changes between adventures. Planning your next step matters more than pressing buttons quickly.
| Platform | Nintendo Switch |
|---|---|
| First European release | June 13, 2019; digital release |
| Genre | Rhythm action-adventure |
| Developer | Brace Yourself Games |
| Players | 1–2 on one console |
| German age rating | USK 6 |
Explore to the rhythm
After Cadence introduces the basics, choose Link or Zelda to continue. The musician Octavo has cast Hyrule into trouble, and the kingdom’s dungeons stand between you and him. The world recalls classic Zelda adventures, but the grid changes how you judge danger. A safe square beside an enemy can be more valuable than the shortest route to a chest.
Watch an enemy’s movements, wait for its attack and step into the opening. Bows, bombs, spells and different weapons change your reach and options. Fixed-Beat Mode lets enemies act only when you take a turn, giving you time to think through each move.
Maps, equipment and another attempt
Because many areas change between runs, a guide cannot provide one set of compass directions for every save file. The useful constants are prerequisites, enemy behavior and equipment abilities. Our guides explain the entrance or obstacle you should look for.
A defeat in the normal story mode does not erase the whole adventure. You lose Rupees, dungeon keys and consumable equipment, while lasting progress and diamonds help with the next attempt. Permadeath introduces stricter rules, so check which mode you select when starting a run.
Co-op and extra stories
Two players can explore together in local co-op on one console. Coordinating your positions helps you approach enemies from different directions. There is no online co-op campaign.
The free Octavo’s Ode update adds another perspective on the story and Dungeon Mode; both unlock after completing the main story. The paid Season Pass adds characters, music and Symphony of the Mask, a separate story starring Skull Kid.
Walkthrough and related games
Start with our Cadence of Hyrule walkthrough for the beat settings, early exploration and waking the second hero in Kakariko Village.
For a traditional adventure without rhythm-based movement, visit Link’s Awakening for Switch. For large battlefield encounters, see Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition.