Sense of Challenge Returns a Feeling of Danger to the Series
The Legend of Zelda games have always been designed so they can be completed without too much trouble. They haven’t been truly difficult since the days of the original title and its follow-up, The Adventure of Link. Breath of the Wild, meanwhile, is brutally difficult at times. Not only can various enemies kill you in a single hit, weapon durability means you never really know when you might be without a way to fight back.
Regaining health is also more difficult, requiring the player to find and cook various ingredients. This renewed sense of challenge also makes for a more rewarding experience. Each new victory feels earned. It isn’t just the strength of your weapons; you need to know how to use and take advantage of the game’s systems to succeed.