Important Note: This is a rumor/leak that has NOT yet been officially confirmed by Nintendo or Ubisoft.
A genuine Zelda game developed by Ubisoft, with the villainous Ganondorf in the hero's role? According to an extensive investigation by Insider Gaming, this concept was reportedly close to becoming a reality. Journalist Tom Henderson states that he researched and independently cross-referenced the story for over 18 months before it was picked up by both IGN and Nintendo Life.
What Reportedly Happened with the Alleged Ubisoft-Zelda Project Codenamed “Goliath”?
According to the report, Ubisoft Milan, known for the Mario + Rabbids series, pitched a Zelda spinoff with a completely new, original main character to Nintendo shortly after the release of Mario + Rabbids Sparks of Hope in late 2022. Nintendo reportedly liked the concept in principle but allegedly suggested replacing the protagonist with Ganondorf instead – the project was internally codenamed “Goliath.” Ubisoft Milan then had until roughly the end of 2023 to deliver a convincing prototype. However, according to Insider Gaming, Nintendo rejected this prototype in November 2023, and the exact reasons for the rejection reportedly remain unclear. Ubisoft allegedly considered other Nintendo projects afterwards, with even a Star Fox and another Mario game reportedly being discussed internally, before talks between the two companies completely fizzled out by early 2024.
How Credible is the Rumor of a Ganondorf-Zelda Game, Given the Sources?
Tom Henderson is considered one of the most reliable insiders in the industry, known for his accurate leaks concerning Battlefield and Call of Duty, among others. The fact that his investigation, according to his own statements, spanned over a year and a half and was additionally independently verified, speaks to an unusually solid factual basis. The fact that both IGN and Nintendo Life independently picked up the story and apparently found no contradictions further supports its credibility. Nevertheless, it remains a rumor: neither Nintendo nor Ubisoft have officially commented on it so far, which is why details such as the exact reason for the rejection or possible later resumptions of the project remain pure speculation for now.
For Zelda fans, a playable Ganondorf would have been a true novelty: outside of the Super Smash Bros. series, players would have been able to directly control the iconic antagonist for the first time. It is also noteworthy that the core team behind the project, including Mario + Rabbids director Davide Soliani, has reportedly since left Ubisoft and founded their own studio, Day 4 Night. Should the rumor prove true, the failed collaboration would also be an example of how closely publisher relationships and staff turnover can be intertwined in the industry.
Source: IGN, Nintendo Life
What do you think of the idea of a playable Ganondorf outside of Smash Bros.? Let us know in the comments!
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