The “160 update” is just shorthand for Version 1.6.0, the final official patch for Breath of the Wild. Installing it is straightforward on unmodded hardware, but requires extra steps on emulators or homebrewed consoles. Always check mod compatibility before updating.
If you’re simply a regular player with a standard Switch, you already have it – no need to search for manual install files.
Word count: ~700 (long-form feature)
Need a more technical guide (e.g., dumping your own NSP from a Switch)? Let me know.
To install the 1.6.0 update for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
, follow these steps for your specific platform. This update is primarily known for adding Nintendo Labo VR Kit Go to product viewer dialog for this item. support. For Nintendo Switch (Standard Update)
The easiest way to update is via the internet on your console:
Connect to the Internet: Ensure your Switch is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network.
Select the Game: Highlight the Breath of the Wild icon on your HOME Menu, but do not start the game.
Open Options: Press the + Button or – Button on your controller to open the software menu.
Update Software: Select Software Update, then choose Via the Internet (or Over the Internet on newer system versions).
Verify Version: Once complete, the version number displayed under the software title should read 1.6.0. For Nintendo Switch 2 (Upgrade Edition)
If you are playing on a newer console, you may have access to an enhanced version:
eShop Method: From the game's main menu, select the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition prompt to go to the eShop. You can download the upgrade pack for a fee or for free if you have a Nintendo Switch Online Plus expansion pack. zelda botw 160 update install
NSO Menu: Alternatively, go to the Nintendo Switch Online menu on the console, navigate to the Expansion Pass section, and select the Breath of the Wild upgrade pack to download. Troubleshooting & Space
Storage: Ensure you have enough free space; the update requires a few GBs. You can manage data in System Settings > Data Management.
Auto-Update: To avoid manual steps in the future, enable Software Auto-Updates in your System Settings.
Wii U / Emulation: If you are using Cemu, you must manually install the update by going to File > Install game title, update or DLC and selecting the meta.xml file from your update folder.
To install the Version 1.6.0 update The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
, follow these steps. This specific update is notable because it added VR Labo Goggles support and optimized loading times. How to Install the Update Connect to the Internet
: Ensure your Nintendo Switch is connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. Highlight the Game : On the Switch Home Menu, move the cursor over the Breath of the Wild Open Options : Press the on your controller to open the game options menu. Select Software Update : Navigate to the Software Update tab on the left-hand side. Via the Internet Via the Internet
. The console will check for the latest version and begin the download automatically. Verifying the Update (Version 1.6.0)
Once the download is complete, you can verify the version number by pressing the
on the game icon again. The version number ("Ver. 1.6.0") should be displayed directly under the game title. Key Changes in 1.6.0 : You can now play the entire game using the Nintendo Labo Toy-Con 04: VR Kit . This can be toggled in the in-game "Options" menu. Technical Improvements
: This update significantly improved loading times (often referred to as "Boost Mode" for the CPU during loading screens). : General fixes to improve the overall gameplay experience. Troubleshooting Insufficient Space
: If the update fails, ensure you have enough free space on your system memory or microSD card. Match Version with Local Users : If you are offline, you can select Match Version with Local Users The “160 update” is just shorthand for Version 1
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BotW) version 1.6.0 is widely considered one of the most critical technical updates in the game’s lifecycle. Released on April 25, 2019, this update introduced Nintendo Labo VR support and a surprise boost to loading performance.
Below is a comprehensive guide on what this update includes and how to install it across different platforms. Key Features of the 1.6.0 Update
While the official patch notes were brief, the impact on gameplay was significant.
Nintendo Labo VR Compatibility: The headline feature added support for the Toy-Con VR Goggles. This allows you to play the entire game in a basic 3D mode, providing a more immersive perspective of Hyrule.
Significantly Faster Load Times: Players quickly discovered that 1.6.0 introduced "boost mode" for the Switch’s CPU. By temporarily increasing the clock speed during loading screens, the game now loads areas and fast-travels significantly faster than in version 1.5.0.
Specific Bug Fixes: It resolved a physics-breaking glitch at the Dako Tah Shrine where pushing a Lizalfos could crash the engine. How to Install the 1.6.0 Update 1. On Nintendo Switch
If your console is connected to the internet, it will typically download and install automatically. To do it manually: Highlight the Breath of the Wild icon on your Home Menu. Press the + or – button on your controller. Select Software Update and then Via the Internet.
The system will check for the latest version (note that as of 2025/2026, the current version is 1.8.x, which includes all 1.6.0 features). 2. On Nintendo Wii U The Wii U version follows a similar automated process: Connect your Wii U to the internet and launch the game.
The system will prompt you to download the update before the game starts.
Note: 1.6.0 was exclusive to the Switch for VR support; Wii U players generally remained on version 1.5.0 as their final major update. 3. On Emulators (Cemu)
For those playing on PC via Cemu, you must install the update files manually to access DLC and performance improvements:
Easiest method. No risk of messing anything up. Word count: ~700 (long-form feature) Need a more
No internet?
You can also update via local wireless from another Switch that already has 1.6.0, or by inserting a game card that includes the update (rare for BOTW).
Step 1: Locate your Cemu Directory
Open Cemu and go to File > Install Game Update or DLC.
Step 2: Select the Update File
Navigate to your downloaded update folder. Look for a .meta file or a folder named Update. Select the meta folder or the meta.xml file.
Pro Tip: If the file is encrypted (common with "160" scene releases), you will need to use a tool like Cemu Title Manager or CDecrypt first. Cemu 2.0 can handle decryption natively if you have the correct keys.
Step 3: Select your Base Game Directory
Cemu will ask you where your base game is installed. Point it to the folder containing the game's code, content, and meta folders.
Step 4: Repeat for DLC
Go to File > Install Game Update or DLC again. This time, select the DLC folder.
Step 5: Verify Installation Right-click Breath of the Wild in Cemu’s game list and select "Game Profile." Look for "Version: v0 (1.5.0)." Under the "DLC" tab, ensure "The Champions’ Ballad" shows as "Active."
Step 6: Apply Graphics Packs (The "160" Resolution) To actually get the 1600p experience:
This update primarily serves two functions: adding paid DLC support and fixing game-breaking bugs.
Bug Fixes & Quality of Life:
Emulator Performance (Cemu):