Summary
The Legend of Zeldais one of the most beloved and well-known series in gaming. Since its very beginnings back in 1986 in Japan, the series has defined the action-adventure genre.
The game’s main protagonist, Link, has come a long way from the simple pixelated charm of the original NES title to the massively detailed open world ofTears of the Kingdom. As time went on, each newZeldagame introduced new characters, items, and gameplay mechanics. Out of the many installments in theZeldafranchise, the following titles stand out as the best from each console in Nintendo’s history.
The first everZeldagame, this was the one that started it all. This classic title has several attributes that contribute to its long-lasting appeal. Despite the limitations of 2D,The Legend of Zeldamanaged to include a relatively large open world, making it an early example of non-linear gameplay. Players were free to choose their own path and explore in any way they wanted. This set the precedent for future game design.
Also, this game introduced weapons and items that would later become iconic: the Master Sword and Triforce, for example. Each of the nine dungeons featured its own unique challenge, encouraging players to think critically and solve puzzles to progress. Players were also rewarded for exploration, as the game is filled with hidden power-ups and shortcuts.
Although now nearly forty years old,The Legend of Zeldastands out as a beloved and influential game with an enduring legacy.
This game has a lot going for it: a colorful art style, thrilling boss fights, and an immersive soundtrack.A Link to the Pastalso introduced a number of concepts that would become staples in theZeldaseries, such as the parallel worlds concept, which allowed players to navigate between interconnected worlds. This game’s use of puzzles, combat, and emphasis on exploration set the standard for the action-adventure games that followed.
A Link to the Pastalso includes an engaging narrative: players learn that Link must defeat the evil wizard Agahnim and rescue Princess Zelda. The game’s pacing is extremely well done, as the plot progresses at a steady pace, which keeps players interested.
A frequent feature on lists of the best games of all time (let alone for the Nintendo 64),The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Timeset the standard for 3D adventure games decades from its initial release in 1998.Ocarina of TimeandMajora’s Maskoftencompete for this title, but the former comes out on top for several reasons. The gameplay ofOcarina of Timewas groundbreaking at a time when 3D technology was relatively new. It was the first 3DZeldatitle, marking the series' transition from 2D into 3D. It consists of a vast, open world, from the Hyrule Fields to the Kokiri Forest, which would inspire the locations of many games since.
Ocarina of Timealso introduced the Z-targeting system, which allows players to lock on to enemies with ease and interact with Link’s world more effectively. It continued the time travel mechanic ofA Link to the Past, as Link is able to change from child to adult. Not only this, the game featured innovative musical integration with the ocarina. This instrument plays a crucial role in the game, as players must learn and play melodies to solve puzzles, change time, and summon characters. The dungeons, such as the Forest and Water Temples, each with their own unique challenges.
From its rich storyline to its great dungeon designs,Ocarina of Timedeserves its status as one of the best video games ever.
4The Wind Waker (Nintendo GameCube)
Metascore: 96
This game is visually striking, as it uses aunique cel-shaded, cartoon-like art style. This departure from the norm was a bold move for Nintendo, which was initially divisive yet is now celebrated for its timeless and charming visuals. Despite being released in 2002,TheWind Waker’s unique art style gives it a timeless appeal. The game’s overworld, The Great Sea, is not only vast and aesthetically pleasing but also filled with places for Link to explore. The openness of this landscape provides a sense of exploration and freedom.
The Wind Wakerintroduced an engaging sailing mechanic as a key element in its gameplay. This mechanic adds more depth to players' exploration as Link canventure to distant landsacross the sea.
Out of the bunch ofZeldatitles released for the Nintendo Wii,Twilight Princessstands out as the best. It involves avast and highly immersive worldfor Link to explore, withnumerous dungeonsand the diverse landscapes of Hyrule Field, Gerudo Desert, and Faron Woods, to name a few. Not only this but there is also the Twilight Realm, a mysterious location that is a parallel dimension to Hyrule. Players are introduced to the Twili; a race descended from the Dark Interlopers (ancient Hylurians who tried to control the Sacred Realm). These Interlopers were banished to the Twilight Realm. This compelling and dark narrative definitely compels and captivates players.
Aside from its great storytelling,Twilight Princessalso introduces unique gameplay mechanics, such as the ability for Link to transform into Wolf Link. This character would later be seen in theSuper Smash Bros.series. This game combines the old and the new, with familiar faces returning as well as new ones - such as Princess Midna, who becomes Link’s companion throughout the game.Twilight Princesshas certainly become a firm favorite amongZeldafans.
Before it was brought over to the Nintendo Switch,The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wildwas a Wii U title. The game features a massive and immersive open world filled with diverse landscapes. Players are encouraged to explore the expansive surroundings. They can also approach challenges in any order, allowing a sense of freedom rarely seen inZeldatitles. This non-linear progression allows players to choose their own path, giving them a great sense of freedom.
As is expected, there are many shrines scattered throughout, each housing its own unique challenges and puzzles and rewarding Link with valuable items. The soundtrack is dynamic, adapting to Link’s surroundings, creating a more immersive experience. Also, unlike traditionalZeldagames,Breath of the Wildfeatures a weapon durability system in which Link’s weapons degrade over time, encouraging players to seek out more items. Finally, the game’s survival elements mean that players must maintain Link’s stamina and temperature, making the game even more immersive.
This game was highly anticipated and did not disappoint upon its release. Often described as the bestZeldagame yet,Tears of the Kingdommanages toimprove upon the fantasticBreath of the Wild.Theopen world that Link can explorein this game is immense, making the breathtaking landscapes of Breath of the Wild seem small in comparison.
The storytelling in this game also does not disappoint.Tears of the Kingdomisrich in lore, with compelling mysteries scattered throughout. It also dives deeply into the history of Hyrule while introducing new characters. As with its predecessor, exploration is at the heart of this game and provides Link with even more abilities, which make this exploration greater. Link’s new Zonai arm gives him many new powers, such as the ability to manipulate objects and even time. All in all,Tears of the Kingdomsets a very high standard for theZeldagames to come.
