The Evolution of Video Game Titles: From ‘Tears of the Dragon’ to ‘Tears of the Kingdom’

During the planning and development phases of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, a different title was seriously considered at one point. According to Eiji Aonuma, the game’s producer, there was a period where the potential title for the game could have been ‘Tears of the Dragon’. The concern here was that this title would emphasize the Light Dragon, which could potentially lead to spoilers regarding the storyline.

Eiji Aonuma mentioned that having the keyword ‘Dragon’ in the title could have been a bad idea. The team wanted to incorporate dragon patterns in the logo, but they ultimately decided against it to avoid emphasizing the Light Dragon too much. As development time was running out, and no other good ideas were emerging, the team needed to make a decision regarding the title.

In the end, a team member suggested incorporating the word “Kingdom” in the title. This suggestion was well-received, and ‘Tears of the Kingdom’ became the final name of the game. This allowed for the “dragons in the logo” to still be used, while also maintaining a connection to the Light Dragon that was crucial to the storyline. Despite finalizing the name, Nintendo opted to delay the official reveal to prevent revealing too much information about the game.

Feedback and Comparison

The final title ‘Tears of the Kingdom’ has sparked discussions among fans and players alike. Some have compared it to the initial potential title ‘Tears of the Dragon’ and have shared their thoughts on the evolution of the game’s name. The decision-making process behind the title change sheds light on the intricate planning and development phases of video games, showcasing how even small details such as a title can greatly impact the overall experience for players.

The journey from ‘Tears of the Dragon’ to ‘Tears of the Kingdom’ highlights the importance of careful consideration and decision-making in the development of video games. The evolution of the title reflects the creative process and the lengths developers go to ensure the best possible experience for players.