If you are playing the game today, you want to be on version 1.6.0. It is the last official update released for the game. It is the most stable, allows you to record videos of your gameplay, and is the version required to play the DLC packs (The Master Trials and The Champions' Ballad).
Verdict: It is the definitive way to play the game.
The 1.6.0 update for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, released on April 25, 2019, is primarily recognized for introducing Nintendo Labo VR support and implementing a "boost mode" that significantly improves loading speeds across the game. Core Update Features
Nintendo Labo VR Support: Players can experience the entire game in VR using the Toy-Con VR Goggles from the Nintendo Labo VR Kit.
Drastic Load Time Reduction: The update utilizes a "boost mode" that increases the Switch's CPU clock speed during loading screens, resulting in roughly 30-50% faster loading.
Fast Travel: Loading times dropped from approximately 26 seconds to 14 seconds in some tests.
Entering Shrines: Loading times decreased from about 8 seconds to 6 seconds. Technical & Performance Impact
While the faster loading was universally praised, community reports on general gameplay performance were mixed:
Boosted Loading: The CPU overclocking specifically targets loading screens to save time when warping or entering new areas.
In-Game Performance: Some users reported increased frame dips in dense areas like Kakariko Village or the Great Plateau following the update, though these were not officially confirmed by Nintendo.
Bug Fixes: A specific Switch-exclusive glitch was fixed where pushing a Lizalfos at the Dako Tah Shrine could break the game's physics engine. Comparison: Is Version 1.6.0 "Better"?
The consensus is that 1.6.0 is the superior version for general play due to the massive quality-of-life improvement in loading times. However, some niche players may have reservations:
While there is no official "160 update" for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
(BotW) that changes the story, players seeking a "proper story" experience often refer to either technical enhancements on newer hardware or specific playstyles that make the narrative feel more cohesive. 🚀 Enhanced Performance on Switch 2
For many players, "better" means technical stability. The recently released Nintendo Switch 2 offers an official upgrade path for BotW [16].
60 FPS Support: While the original game is locked at 30 FPS, players can purchase an upgrade pack (or access it via the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack) to enable 60 FPS gameplay [16, 22, 26].
Higher Resolution: The game now supports up to 1440p resolution with improved textures and shadows [17, 22].
Faster Load Times: Warping and entering shrines is significantly faster on the new hardware compared to the original Switch [14, 22]. 📖 How to Get a "Proper Story" Experience
Because BotW’s story is told through non-linear flashbacks, it can feel "fragmented." To make the narrative feel like a traditional, "proper" story, you can follow this chronological community route [12, 15]: Great Plateau: Complete the mandatory tutorial.
Kakariko & Hateno: Speak to Impa and Purah immediately to unlock the Camera Rune and the quest for Captured Memories.
Memories in Order: Collect the memories in their chronological order (check the Adventure Log) rather than by proximity. This reveals Zelda's character arc more clearly [15].
Divine Beasts: Visit the regions in an order that builds stakes: Start with Zora's Domain (Sidon), then Goron City, Rito Village, and finally Gerudo Town.
Master Sword: Aim for 13 hearts to pull the sword before finishing all Divine Beasts to experience unique dialogue.
Champion's Ballad (DLC): If you have the DLC, complete this before the final boss. It provides the "proper" emotional closure for the Champions that many felt was missing from the base game [15]. 🛠️ Modding & PC Performance (The "160 FPS" Mention)
The "160" in your request might refer to high-end PC emulation.
Some players use emulators to run the game at 160 FPS and 4K resolution [22].
These versions often use mods like "Second Wind" or "Relics of the Past" which add new quests, lore, and "proper" traditional dungeons back into the game world [13]. If you're looking to dive back in, I can help you with:
Finding the locations of all 13 memories in chronological order.
Explaining the best order to tackle the Divine Beasts for the easiest (or hardest) difficulty.
Checking if your save data will carry over to the Switch 2 version.
Here’s a completed version of that thought, written naturally as a player or reviewer might say it:
"Zelda BOTW 1.6.0 update better be worth the download — all I want is a stable framerate in Korok Forest."
Or, if you meant it as a positive statement:
"Zelda BOTW 1.6.0 update better improves performance and adds a few quality-of-life fixes, even years after release."
And if you're looking for an actual summary of what changed in Ver. 1.6.0 (released November 2021, just before Tears of the Kingdom was announced):
"The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Version 1.6.0 brings better stability and support for the Save Data Cloud backup (for Switch Online members), along with minor fixes for in-game events. No new content or major performance boosts, but it’s a solid, small polish update."
If you meant something else — like a mod, a fan wishlist, or a meme — just let me know and I’ll tailor it exactly.
While the official patch notes for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) version 1.6.0 focus primarily on Nintendo Labo VR support, this update is widely considered "better" by the community due to a hidden, significant technical upgrade: drastically improved loading times. Faster Loading with "Boost Mode"
The most notable improvement in the 1.6.0 update is the introduction of a "CPU Boost Mode" during loading screens.
Significant Speed Increase: Comparisons between version 1.5.0 and 1.6.0 show that loading times for fast-traveling can be up to 37% faster.
Shrine Entry: Entering a shrine saw a roughly 21% improvement in speed.
Technical Detail: The update allows the Switch to temporarily increase its CPU clock speed while the game is loading, reducing wait times from approximately 16 seconds down to 10 seconds in many scenarios. Nintendo Labo VR Compatibility
The primary advertised feature of version 1.6.0 was adding compatibility with the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit.
Full Game Access: You can play the entire main game in VR mode (excluding certain cutscenes) by enabling the "VR Goggles" option in the System menu.
Toggleable: This feature can be turned on or off at any time without affecting your save data. Bug Fixes and Stability
Beyond loading and VR, the 1.6.0 update addressed minor technical issues to improve the overall gameplay experience.
Physics Fix: It resolved a specific Switch-exclusive glitch at the Dako Tah Shrine where pushing a Lizalfos could break the physics engine.
Link-Time Optimization: Under the hood, the game was recompiled with link-time optimization (LTO), which can lead to better general performance through more efficient code execution. How to Verify Your Update
If you aren't sure if you're running the latest version, you can check directly from your console:
Highlight the Zelda: Breath of the Wild icon on your HOME Menu. Press the + or - button on your controller.
The version number (e.g., Ver. 1.6.0) will be displayed under the game title. How to Update The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) version 1.6.0 is widely considered better than previous versions due to drastically improved load times and the addition of VR support. Released on April 25, 2019, this update introduced "Boost Mode," which temporarily increases the Nintendo Switch CPU clock speed during loading screens to process data faster. ⚡ Major Performance: Faster Load Times
The most significant benefit for most players is the reduction in waiting time during fast travel and shrine entry.
Fast Travel Speed: Loading times when teleporting were reduced by nearly half in some cases.
Shrine Entry: Entering a shrine now takes roughly 6 seconds, compared to ~8 seconds in version 1.5.0.
Overworld Transitions: The update also reduced "loading pauses" while traveling through the overworld at high speeds (e.g., during Stasis launches). 🕶️ New Feature: Nintendo Labo VR Support
Version 1.6.0 made the entire game playable in a new VR mode using the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit Go to product viewer dialog for this item. .
Toggle Anywhere: You can enable or disable VR at any time from the "Options" menu under the "System" tab.
Third-Person VR: The game remains in third-person, but the camera follows Link while you look around through the goggles.
Motion Control: VR mode works with your existing save data and uses the console's gyro sensors to track your head movements.
The 1.6.0 update for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (released in April 2019) is a rare example of a "stealth" performance boost that significantly improves the experience beyond its advertised features. While officially touted as the "VR update," its technical optimizations for the standard game make it the definitive version for any player. Drastic Loading Improvements
The most impactful change in version 1.6.0 is the implementation of a "boost mode" during loading screens. By temporarily increasing the Nintendo Switch CPU’s clock speed, the update slashes wait times across the board. Independent testing shows an average speed increase of roughly 26%. Pre-1.6.0 (Ver. 1.5.0) Post-1.6.0 (Ver. 1.6.0) Fast Travel ~26-30 seconds ~11-14 seconds Loading Save ~31 seconds ~21 seconds Entering Shrine ~10 seconds ~7 seconds
See the dramatic difference in loading speeds firsthand in this comparison video:
Title: 🛑 Stop Scrolling: Why The BOTW 1.6.0 Update Is Actually a Game-Changer (And Why You Might Be Missing Out)
If you’re replaying The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and wondering if the "1.6.0 Update" is worth installing, the answer is YES—especially if you play on Nintendo Switch.
A lot of players confuse "Updates" with "DLC," but 1.6.0 is the specific firmware patch that polished the game for the Switch hardware. Here is why 1.6.0 makes the experience objectively better:
1. The "Switch Boost" (Resolution & Performance) If you are playing on a Switch, Update 1.6.0 is mandatory for the best experience. Unlike the Wii U version which caps at 720p, this update allows the Switch version to hit native 900p in docked mode. It doesn't sound like a massive jump on paper, but it results in a cleaner image, less jagged edges on distant mountains, and a more stable frame rate in busy areas like Kakariko Village.
2. The "Hero's Path" Mode (Quality of Life King) This is the single most useful feature added in the update cycle. The Hero's Path tracks everywhere you have walked in the last 200 hours of gameplay.
3. Korok Mask Integration While technically part of the DLC pack, the 1.6.0 update code is what allows items like the Korok Mask to function seamlessly. If you have the DLC, this item alone saves you dozens of hours of aimless wandering by shaking when a hidden Korok is nearby.
4. Load Time Optimizations The update improved asset loading. Fast travel is snappier, and entering Shrines is slightly quicker. When you are fast-traveling 50 times a session, those saved seconds add up.
The Verdict: If you are playing on a modded Wii U, the graphics packs might offer a superior 1080p/60fps experience. But for everyone else on official hardware, Update 1.6.0 is the definitive way to play. It turns a great game into a smooth, polished masterpiece.
💡 Pro Tip: Even if you own a physical cartridge, ensure your game is patched to 1.6.0 before starting a new file. Some mechanics and bug fixes (like the ill-fated "Witch Twirl" physics) were altered, making the game more stable for 100% completion runs.
Here’s a short, polished post you can use:
"Zelda: BOTW 1.6.0 update is AMAZING — feels like a true quality-of-life patch. Improved performance, smarter enemy AI, and smoother stables/travel make exploration more enjoyable. Minor bug fixes and balance tweaks only add to the polish. If you loved BotW before, this update makes it even better. #Zelda #BreathOfTheWild #Gaming"
Would you like a longer version, a hype tweet, or one tailored for Reddit/Discord?
You're referring to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BOTW) and its updates. As of my last update in April 2023, the game had received several updates, with the most significant being version 1.6.0, also known as the "160" update by fans, though officially it's referred to as version 1.6.0 or simply part of the series of patches leading up to that.
Here's a rundown of some key improvements and additions that came with the notable updates up to and including version 1.6.0:
If you want the "Better" experience, follow this quick guide. (Disclaimer: You must own a legal copy of Breath of the Wild for Wii U to dump your game files.)
Debug > Use asynchronous shaders. This prevents the game from freezing when you see a new enemy.BotW.Result: If your CPU is strong enough, the top-left counter will lock at 160. You will experience 5.3x the smoothness of a Nintendo Switch.
For a significant portion of players, 30 FPS with heavy motion blur causes vertigo. The sweeping camera angles in BotW are violent. Jumping off the Great Plateau Tower at 30 FPS can be disorienting.
At 160 FPS, the camera movement is buttery. Many players report they can play for 6+ hours on PC without the headaches they experienced on the Switch.
On the Switch, when you enter the Lost Woods or fight a Frost Talus during a snowstorm, the game drops to 20 FPS. The audio stutters, your inputs lag, and the game literally runs in slow motion.
At 160 FPS, that is gone. Permanently.
The consistency allows the game’s dynamic music and combat rhythm to shine as originally intended.
The official version update for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
was a minor stability update released in 2019, primarily adding VR support via Nintendo Labo. However, if you are referring to the recent Nintendo Switch 2 Edition Upgrade
(often discussed in 2025/2026 contexts), the experience is significantly improved with several "better" features. Top Enhancements in the Modern Upgrade
To prepare for the "better" version of the game, here are the key features and how they improve the experience: Higher Performance & Frame Rate : The game now runs at a locked 60 FPS
, making combat and parrying significantly more fluid and responsive. Visual Fidelity Boost Resolution : Increased from 900p to 1440p (or 4K) when docked, and up to in handheld mode. Lighting & Shadows
: Includes improved draw distance, better shadow quality, and HDR support Faster Loading Times
: Warp times and initial load speeds are substantially faster, reducing downtime between exploring different regions. Zelda Notes Feature
: A new integration that allows you to track shrines, quests, and materials directly on your device, replacing the need for external companion apps. New "Quest for Each Goal" (Randomizer/Updates)
: Some recent community-driven or official updates include a real-time progress counter and map markers for every objective, clarifying what needs to be done next. How to Get the Best Version
If you already own the original game, you can typically access these "better" features through a dedicated Upgrade Pack
Just got a switch 2 and want to know is the BOTW upgrade worth it?
Here’s a ready-to-post breakdown of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Version 1.6.0 update, framed as “what makes it better” for players revisiting the game or discovering it after Tears of the Kingdom.
Title: 🗡️ BOTW 1.6.0 Update – Why It’s Better Than You Think (Yes, in 2026)
Body:
When Breath of the Wild dropped its 1.6.0 update late in the Switch’s life, most people assumed it was just “stability fixes.” But after hundreds of hours, here’s why 1.6.0 genuinely makes the game better – especially for returning players.
This paper analyzes the significance of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild software update v1.6.0. While previous updates focused on bug fixes and downloadable content (DLC) support, v1.6.0 introduced fundamental system-level changes—specifically the implementation of video capture support. This update not only improved the user experience for casual players but also catalyzed a second life for the game through community engagement and technical preservation.