Tears of the Kingdom sticks closely to its classic fantasy roots, emphasizing heroism, exploration, and skill-based progression over identity politics. Characters are developed based on their roles and personalities, with little focus on modern ideological themes or forced diversity. It is, refreshingly, focused on adventure rather than ticking identity boxes.

There is a clear appreciation for tradition, from heroic masculinity in Link to the central theme of restoring balance and order. Family, sacrifice, and duty are central motifs. No attempt is made to subvert gender roles or cultural heritage, Zelda remains Zelda, and the story respects the Zelda mythos.

While the game avoids making heavy-handed political or ideological statements, the world mostly lines up with classic fantasy values, heroism, camaraderie, self-sacrifice, without satirizing tradition. Opposing worldviews are not really a focus, but that’s typical for this genre, not a sign of woke groupthink.