Botw Update 160 2021 ⚡

BOTW Update 1.6.0 (2021) will never be remembered alongside the DLC updates or the game-changing patch 1.3.0 (which nerfed the infamous "Infinite Arrow" glitch). Instead, it stands as a stability patch in the truest sense—a quiet, background improvement that kept the game running smoothly on evolving hardware.

For new players installing the game fresh in 2025 or beyond, 1.6.0 is simply the version you play. For veterans who watched it download in May 2021, it was a final farewell from Nintendo to a game that defined the Switch.

Now, go. Hyrule still needs you—just with slightly better memory management.

Have you noticed any changes in BotW after updating to 1.6.0? Share your experience in the comments below (or on our forums). And if you’re moving on to Tears of the Kingdom, remember: stability is its own kind of courage.

Update 1.6.0 (2021)

While the update was relatively minor, it demonstrated Nintendo's continued support for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, a game that received widespread critical acclaim upon its release in 2017.

Would you like to know more about the game or its updates?

While there was no major content update released specifically in 2021, many players returning to The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

that year were experiencing the effects of the final major performance patch, Version 1.6.0

. This update is best known for drastically improving technical performance rather than adding new quests. Technical Review: Version 1.6.0

The most significant impact of this version is a "hidden" optimization that makes the game feel much modern and fluid compared to its launch state. Drastically Faster Loading Times

: The standout feature of 1.6.0 is a massive reduction in loading screens. By utilizing a "Boost Mode" that temporarily overclocked the Switch's CPU during transitions, fast-traveling and entering shrines became nearly twice as fast—dropping from ~26 seconds to roughly 14 seconds in many cases. VR Mode via Nintendo Labo : This update officially introduced support for the Nintendo Labo VR Kit

. While it allows you to play the entire game in VR (except for cutscenes), it is largely considered a novelty due to the 720p resolution of the Switch screen, which can lead to eye strain during long sessions. Stability and Glitch Fixes

: Several minor physics bugs were addressed, including a specific glitch involving Lizalfos at the Dako Tah Shrine that could previously break the physics engine. Speedrunning Impact

: Despite the faster loading times, most speedrunners actually benefited from this update as it did not patch out major movement exploits like "Windbombing" (Impact Launching) or "Stasis Launches," keeping the high-level competitive scene intact. 2021 "Update" Context October 2021 , Nintendo released a special Expansion Pass Edition

physical cartridge exclusively in Japan. This version includes the base game and all DLC (The Master Trials and The Champions' Ballad) directly on the game card, making it a highly sought-after "definitive edition" for collectors.

Are you looking to troubleshoot an installation issue or check if a specific glitch still works in this version?

It sounds like you’re referencing a Breath of the Wild (BotW) update from 2021 with a number 160 — likely the version number 1.6.0 (often written as v1.6.0 or just “160” in shorthand).

If you need to prepare a paper (a written report, summary, or guide) about that specific update, here’s a structured outline you can use:

As with most patches, the update also included unspecified "several fixes" to improve gameplay comfort and stability.

Note on "Version 160": While "1.6.0" is the official update number, in the Switch home menu, updates are often displayed as "Version 1.6.0". If you are seeing a specific error or behavior regarding "160," it is usually related to the Wii U version of the game (which used different numbering) or a specific network error code (Error Code 160-xxxx), but for the standard Switch release in 2021, the features listed above are what the update provided. botw update 160 2021

You're referring to the Breath of the Wild update 1.6.0, released on November 30, 2021!

Here's an interesting report on the updates and changes brought about by this patch:

Update 1.6.0 (November 2021)

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild received a significant update in November 2021, which addressed several issues, added new features, and improved overall gameplay. Here are some key changes:

Fixes and Improvements

New Features

Other Changes

The update 1.6.0 was a significant step forward for Breath of the Wild, addressing community concerns and adding quality-of-life features. The patch has been well-received by players, and it's a testament to Nintendo's ongoing support for their beloved game.

Are you a BotW player? What do you think about this update?

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) remains one of the most significant titles in gaming history, yet its post-launch update cycle has often been a source of mystery and confusion for the player base. One specific term that frequently surfaces in community searches is the "botw update 1.6.0 2021."

To understand this update, one must look at the timeline of Nintendo’s support for the game, the specific technical fixes implemented, and how this version laid the groundwork for the eventual release of its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. The Context of Version 1.6.0

Technically, Version 1.6.0 was released in early 2019, primarily to introduce compatibility with the Nintendo Labo VR Kit. However, the search for "2021" regarding this update usually stems from players returning to the game during the pandemic or those noticing subtle background stability updates Nintendo pushed to its servers during that year.

While 2021 did not see a massive content drop—the DLC cycles for The Master Trials and The Champions' Ballad were long finished—Version 1.6.0 remains the definitive "modern" state of the game on the Nintendo Switch and Wii U. Key Features of the 1.6.0 Patch

The primary focus of this update was the "VR Goggles" mode. By navigating to the options menu, players could toggle a view compatible with the Labo VR headset. While not a full "first-person" overhaul, it allowed players to experience the vastness of Hyrule with a sense of depth and scale that was previously impossible. Beyond the VR novelty, the update included:

Technical Stability: Optimization of frame rates in hardware-intensive areas like Korok Forest.

Bug Fixes: Patching various "out of bounds" glitches that were being exploited by the speedrunning community.

Asset Loading: Improved data streaming to reduce the frequency of the "loading" screen pops during high-speed travel (such as wind-bombing). Why the "2021" Search Trend?

In 2021, Zelda fans were scouring every corner of the internet for news on the "Sequel to Breath of the Wild." During this time, several "Ninja Updates" or minor "Ver. 1.6.x" stability patches were reported. These updates didn't add new shrines or armor; instead, they focused on:

System Firmware Compatibility: Ensuring the game ran perfectly on the newly released Nintendo Switch OLED model.

Save Data Cloud Support: Refining how the game interacted with Nintendo Switch Online's cloud saving to prevent data corruption. BOTW Update 1

eShop Integration: Updating the internal links to the Expansion Pass as Nintendo shifted its digital storefront layouts. The Legacy of Breath of the Wild's Final State

For many players, the 1.6.0 environment is the "permanent" version of Hyrule. Because Nintendo opted not to release further gameplay content after 2019, the community took it upon themselves to keep the game alive. In 2021, this manifested in the "Second Wind" modding project and other fan-made expansions that required a stable 1.6.0 base to function.

Even without official new quests, the 1.6.0 update ensured that the game remained a polished, bug-free experience for the millions of new Switch owners who picked up the title years after its initial launch.

As of today, Version 1.6.0 (and its minor stability iterations) remains the final major version of the game. Nintendo officially shifted all development resources to Tears of the Kingdom shortly after the VR update. For those looking for new content in 2021 and beyond, the "update" wasn't a patch, but a transition to the next chapter of the Zelda franchise.

If you are currently playing BotW and want to maximize your experience, I can help you with:

Checking your current version to ensure you have the VR and stability fixes.

Locating the best armor sets available in the 1.6.0 endgame.

Understanding how to transfer your 1.6.0 save data benefits into Tears of the Kingdom. Which of these

In 2021, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild did not receive a major content update. Instead, users frequently encountered Error Code 160-0103 while attempting to update the game or launch it via the Cemu emulator. This error is typically related to system update requirements or corrupted update data rather than a specific new patch release. Update Error Report & Resolution

If you are seeing a prompt for a "system update" or encountering the 160-0103 error while trying to play Breath of the Wild (particularly on the Wii U or Cemu), follow these troubleshooting steps:

Corrupted Data Removal: Many users found that deleting corrupted update data via the Wii U System Settings before attempting a fresh install resolved the 160-0103 error.

Region Matching: For Cemu users, ensure your update region (USA, EUR, JPN) matches the region of your base game. Mismatched regions are a primary cause of the "System Update" prompt. Manual Update Installation: In Cemu, go to File > Install game title, update, or DLC.

Navigate to your update folder and select the meta.xml file.

Note: If the meta.xml file is missing or not visible, some users on Linux or Steam Deck have had success manually moving files to the correct MLC directory.

Wii U System Update: For physical console users, ensure the Wii U is connected to the internet; the game should download and install the latest available patch automatically upon launch. Historical Context

While there were no major gameplay expansions in 2021, the game remains on version 1.6.0 (Switch) and 1.5.0 / v208 (Wii U), which includes all previously released DLC and the VR support update. Smaller stability patches have occasionally been noted by the community, such as a minor update in 2025 that addressed background fixes alongside its sequel.

Are you experiencing a specific error code or looking to install a particular mod/graphic pack for the game?

Nintendo did not release a formal Version 1.6.0 for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

in 2021. The game's final major update was Version 1.6.0, which was actually released on April 25, 2019, to add support for the Nintendo Labo VR Kit Go to product viewer dialog for this item.

If you are looking for a guide on how the game stood in 2021 or how to manage that specific version today, here is a concise guide. Breath of the Wild Version 1.6.0 (The Final Update) The primary purpose of this version was VR integration. Have you noticed any changes in BotW after updating to 1

VR Mode: Players can toggle "VR Goggles" in the Options menu. This allows you to play the entire game using the Nintendo Labo VR Kit

Third-Person Perspective: Unlike other VR experiences, the camera remains in a third-person view, allowing you to look around Hyrule by moving your head.

Performance Improvements: This update included minor technical refinements that fixed small glitches and optimized load times across the Switch and Wii U versions. 2021 Legacy Guide: Reaching 100% Completion

By 2021, the "100%" meta was fully established. To see your completion percentage on the Sheikah Slate's map, you must first defeat Calamity Ganon.

Korok Seeds (72%): The largest portion of the map percentage. You must find all 900 Korok Seeds.

Shrines (10.1%): Complete all 120 Shrines (plus DLC shrines if applicable).

Location Discovery (18.08%): You must physically visit every named location on the map, including bridges and ruins.

Divine Beasts: Defeat all four Divine Beasts (Vah Ruta, Vah Rudania, Vah Medoh, and Vah Naboris). Technical Tips for 1.6.0

Checking Your Version: On the Nintendo Switch Home Screen, highlight the BOTW icon, press the + Button, and look at the version number under the game title.

Updating: If you aren't on 1.6.0, select Software Update > Via the Internet from that same menu.

Emulation (Cemu): For players on PC, 1.6.0 is the standard stable version. Many users use the Cemu Emulator along with community tools like UKMM (Universal Kingdom Mod Manager) to manage mods and graphic packs.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild update 1.6.0 was released in 2021. This update made the following changes:

No major new features or content were added in this update. It primarily focused on addressing stability and bug issues to enhance the overall gaming experience.

For more information on patch notes, you can check Nintendo's official website.

While it may seem like there was a significant patch released in 2021, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild actually remained on version 1.6.0 throughout that year. Version 1.6.0, which originally launched on April 25, 2019, was the definitive technical state of the game for several years.

The main event for the game in 2021 was the launch of the Japanese physical edition with the Expansion Pass included on October 8, 2021. This version came pre-loaded with version 1.6.0 and both DLC packs, meaning all previous updates and content were integrated directly onto the cartridge. Key Features of Version 1.6.0

The 1.6.0 update was a major technical milestone, introducing two primary improvements:

Nintendo Labo VR Compatibility: This patch added full support for the Toy-Con VR Goggles from the Nintendo Labo VR Kit. Players could experience the entire adventure in VR by enabling the "VR Goggles" setting in the System Options menu.

Significantly Faster Load Times: In addition to VR, this update utilized "boost mode" for the Switch’s CPU during loading screens. Comparisons showed that load times for fast travel were reduced by nearly half, sometimes dropping from 26 seconds to just 14 seconds.

See how the 1.6.0 update drastically reduces load times when teleporting around Hyrule: