alright. i think i cracked it. i know where nintendo goes with zelda, at least, after tears of the kingdom.

modern era. not like, our modern era but something like the 1960s-1970s. this was actually already somewhat ideated, funny enough, and was one of the ideas brought to the table for the next major 3D zelda after skyward sword. they had a basic idea of link riding a motorcycle and using magical instruments as key items.

i think it would very obviously shock people, but it would be intriguing enough to want to check it out. breath of the wild did a similar thing and ended up being the best selling zelda game BY FAR. they could also go back to a more traditional zelda formula, because the change of setting (which has been literally the exact same setting for the past 35 or so years) would be enough to completely change things up. they could certainly cut back the scope and put their focus more into making the game ooze with the classic style.

i'm picturing it now... a zelda soundtrack comprised of 60s music. you know how bad i want to hear some jimi hendrix styled riffs in a zelda game now? that would be so badass. riding around the city streets of hyrule, running into city slickers that work for ganondorf, who is some crime boss that stole the most popular band's lead singer's daughter zelda, and link has this long-forgotten magic ability that enables him to get her back against all odds and ultimately save the city from the clutches of ancient evil.