'Legend of Zelda' Wii U release date: Game coming to console in 2016 as promised

A screengrab from the "Legend of Zelda" sneak peek from Nintendo Direct Nintendo/YouTube

Nintendo has said it is sticking by a 2016 release date for "Legend of Zelda" Wii U. During the Nintendo Direct presentation, new footage from the game was showcased, suggesting that in the midst of fans' qualms, the game is still headed to the console.

Next year, the much-loved "Legend of Zelda" series will be 30 years old and Nintendo intends to celebrate this feat by releasing the Wii U version sometime in 2016. The 13-second glimpse of the game that confirmed the release date saw Link ride a graceful Epona through a stunning pasture.

It is unclear as to when the game specifically drops on the Wii U but Nintendo of America President Reggie Fils-Aime guaranteed fans during the event that the game studio is "working hard" on the much-awaited title.

For a while now, there are rumors about Nintendo no longer pushing the idea of Link coming to the Wii U. This is because next year will also mark the emergence of the Nintendo NX, the company's brand new gaming console. But as it turns out, "Legend of Zelda" Wii U is still a thing for Nintendo.

During the Nintendo Direct presentation, the gaming giant also announced the coming of a remastered version of the 2006 "Legend of Zelda" title "Twilight Princess HD" to the Wii U. It comes with updated character models and textures.

However, Fils-Aime noted that not much will be changed gameplay-wise except for the newfound compatibility of the Wolf Link amiibo to the game. Those who have the toy will be able to carry over their saved data to the "Twilight Princess HD" Wii U.

The remaster will be released on March 4, 2016 and is now available for pre-order. The Wolf Link amiibo will also be made available on the same date.

Watch the "Legend of Zelda" Wii U sneak peek starting at the 3:22 mark.

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