As with most patches, this update included minor, unspecified, "other adjustments" to improve the overall player experience. Why "BOTW Update 160 2021" was a Trending Topic
In the grand timeline of Breath of the Wild updates, 1.6.0 is a footnote. But it represents something important: years after launch. In an era where many developers abandon non-live-service titles, Nintendo ensured BotW remained compatible with modern Switch firmware updates.
While not explicitly detailed in Nintendo’s brief patch notes, data miners and players quickly discovered a massive hidden benefit in the update: . botw update 160 2021
The Hidden Revolution of Hyrule: Everything About BOTW Update 1.6.0
Once enabled, the entire game can be played in a stereoscopic 3D view. While not a high-fidelity VR experience (you must hold the Switch and goggles up to your face), it provided a novel way to experience the vast open world of Hyrule. As with most patches, this update included minor,
If you were hoping for a Switch Pro patch — this wasn’t it.
This hidden technical engine change completely revolutionized the speedrunning community. It preserved precious minutes over the course of 100% completion runs, turning version 1.6.0 into the gold standard version for competitive play. 🛠️ Datamined Under-the-Hood Changes In an era where many developers abandon non-live-service
It also marked the final patch for Breath of the Wild on Switch. After 1.6.0, all development attention shifted to Tears of the Kingdom (2023). If you’re playing BotW today, you’re likely on 1.6.0.
The reception to VR support was mixed. Experiencing Hyrule's grand vistas in VR was a novelty, but the technical limitations of the Labo VR Kit—namely, its low resolution, lack of a head strap, and the game's original framerate—meant the experience was a blurry, and for some, nausea-inducing endeavor. It was largely seen as an ambitious, experimental feature. However, for modders, the 1.6.0 update was a crucial foundation for their work.
: The update coincided with broader Nintendo Switch system firmware updates, necessitating minor code adjustments in flagship titles to prevent software crashes or compatibility errors with the console's operating system. Impact on the Player Base
Chinese (Simplified/Traditional) and Korean language support April 2019 VR Goggles Support and faster loading Switch 2 optimization and performance polish