TORONTO — Local gamer Shay Freger’s copy of the Nintendo Switch remake of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening, which he lent to a friend months ago has officially been declared dead authorities have confirmed.
Toronto Police Chief Adam Stockman confirmed the news in a press conference.
“While it’s a tragic conclusion to this case, we have determined that with the game still being with the friend after this length of time, it’s safe to assume it’s dead and the case is closed,” Stockman solemnly stated. “It’s not a long game, about fifteen hours plus it’s on a portable console. Mr. Freger lent the game to his friend five months ago, he should have beaten it and returned it by now. The only explanation for its continued absence is that it’s dead.”
Freger is mourning the loss but is glad to finally have closure.
“I lent it to my buddy Johnny in late November and I was happy to do it, he didn’t have anything to play and was a Zelda fan who had never played it,” explained Freger. “I knew he’d like it so I gave it to him. I didn’t think he’d have it for so long, it’s not a long game. He’s a busy guy so after a month I didn’t think anything of it but by months two and three I was really questioning him but he kept dodging the question. While I’m relieved to finally have closure, I wish I still had it. I only played it once and never touched it again but you never know when you might want to pick it back up.”
Freger says that he doesn’t blame Johnny for the loss.
“I can see now that Johnny was just trying to be a good friend and protect me from the tragedy of the game dying. They really don’t make games like they used to, there are so many ways new games can just die. I guess that’s what happened here, either that or Johnny is just keeping it but he would never do that, he’s my friend.”
Freger’s friend Johnny could not be reached for comment.
At press time, authorities say there are still hundreds of games lent to friends that are still missing.
