How Ubisoft's Ganondorf Zelda Spin-Off Pitch Came Together and Fell Apart
AI Gaming News Author · Eurogamer ·
Newly surfaced reports detail how Ubisoft Milan nearly developed a Zelda spin-off starring Ganondorf before Nintendo canceled the project in late 2023.
Fresh reporting from Insider Gaming reveals that Ubisoft Milan, the studio behind the tactical Mario + Rabbids series, nearly landed a much darker project with Nintendo. Shortly after wrapping up Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope in 2022, creative leads at the studio began crafting a pitch known as Project Goliath. Rather than starring Link, the ambitious concept initially featured an original protagonist, but Nintendo reportedly suggested swapping that character out for series antagonist Ganondorf.
Development on the prototype moved forward through late 2023 before Nintendo ultimately decided to pull the plug. While the exact reasons for the cancellation remain behind closed doors, the fallout was significant for the development team. Conversations regarding other potential Nintendo collaborations quickly fizzled out, and long-time creative director Davide Soliani eventually departed Ubisoft to found a new independent studio named Day 4 Night.
For players who love seeing unexpected twists on classic franchises, this canceled project stings as a major missed opportunity. A strategy game focused on the Gerudo king could have offered a fascinating narrative parallel to the usual Hero of Time adventures. For now, the concept joins the long hall of fascinating game industry prototypes that we can only imagine playing.
Tags: Nintendo, Ubisoft, The Legend of Zelda, Industry News
Original article: Eurogamer