Top 25 Games in The Legend of Zelda Series
The Legend of Zelda franchise is one of the most beloved and influential series in gaming history. Since its debut in 1986, it has captured the hearts of millions with its engaging gameplay, rich storytelling, and iconic characters. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top 25 games in The Legend of Zelda series, showcasing the evolution of this legendary franchise.
1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Released: 2017
Platform: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
Breath of the Wild revolutionized open-world gaming with its vast, explorable world and innovative mechanics, allowing players to approach challenges in unique ways.
2. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
Released: 1998
Platform: Nintendo 64
Often hailed as one of the greatest games of all time, Ocarina of Time introduced 3D gameplay and a rich narrative, setting the standard for action-adventure games.
3. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
Released: 1991
Platform: Super Nintendo
This classic introduced the dual-world mechanic and is celebrated for its intricate dungeons and timeless gameplay.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
Released: 2000
Platform: Nintendo 64
Majora’s Mask offers a darker narrative and a unique time-based mechanic, making it one of the most innovative entries in the series.
5. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
Released: 2002
Platform: GameCube
Known for its stunning cel-shaded graphics, The Wind Waker takes players on a grand adventure across the Great Sea, filled with exploration and discovery.
6. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Released: 2006
Platform: GameCube, Wii
With a more mature tone and darker visuals, Twilight Princess features an engaging story and introduces the wolf transformation mechanic.
7. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Released: 2011
Platform: Wii
Skyward Sword explores the origin of the Master Sword and features motion controls for swordplay, creating a unique gameplay experience.
8. The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages
Released: 2001
Platform: Game Boy Color
These two interconnected games allow players to experience different gameplay styles, with Seasons focusing on action and Ages emphasizing puzzles.
9. The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks
Released: 2009
Platform: Nintendo DS
Featuring train travel and a unique art style, Spirit Tracks offers a fresh take on the series while maintaining its signature puzzle-solving elements.
10. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
Released: 2007
Platform: Nintendo DS
This direct sequel to The Wind Waker introduces touchscreen controls and innovative puzzles, enhancing the adventure for handheld gamers.
11. The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening
Released: 1993 (original), 2019 (remake)
Platform: Game Boy, Nintendo Switch
Link’s Awakening is known for its charming story and unique dreamlike setting, with the 2019 remake bringing modern visuals to this classic.
12. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds
Released: 2013
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
This spiritual successor to A Link to the Past introduces a new mechanic where Link can merge into walls, offering creative puzzle-solving opportunities.
13. The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes
Released: 2015
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Focusing on cooperative multiplayer, Tri Force Heroes challenges players to solve puzzles and defeat enemies together as they control three Links.
14. The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures
Released: 2004
Platform: GameCube
This multiplayer-focused game allows players to work together to solve puzzles and defeat enemies, promoting teamwork in a vibrant world.
15. The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
Released: 2004
Platform: Game Boy Advance
Featuring a unique shrinking mechanic, The Minish Cap introduces players to new puzzles and a whimsical art style.
16. The Legend of Zelda: The Legend of Zelda
Released: 1986
Platform: NES
The original game set the foundation for the series, introducing players to Hyrule and the core mechanics that would define future titles.
17. The Legend of Zelda: Adventure of Link
Released: 1987
Platform: NES
This sequel introduced RPG elements and side-scrolling gameplay, offering a different experience compared to the original game.
18. The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Warriors
Released: 2014
Platform: Wii U, Nintendo Switch
Combining hack-and-slash gameplay with the Zelda universe, Hyrule Warriors offers a unique take on familiar characters and settings.
19. The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD
Released: 2021
Platform: Nintendo Switch
This high-definition remaster of Skyward Sword improves graphics and controls while retaining the original’s charm and story.
20. The Legend of Zelda: Cadence of Hyrule
Released: 2019
Platform: Nintendo Switch
A rhythm-based spin-off of the series, this game combines music with classic Zelda gameplay, offering a fresh and unique experience.
21. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past & Four Swords
Released: 2002
Platform: Game Boy Advance
This compilation includes the classic A Link to the Past along with Four Swords, introducing cooperative gameplay to the franchise.
22. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
Released: 2011
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
This enhanced version of the classic game features updated graphics and controls, making it accessible to a new generation of players.
23. The Legend of Zelda: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity
Released: 2020
Platform: Nintendo Switch
Set 100 years before Breath of the Wild, this game combines hack-and-slash gameplay with the rich lore of Hyrule, focusing on the events leading to the Great Calamity.
24. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
Released: 2016
Platform: Wii U
This remaster improves the graphics and adds new features to the beloved Twilight Princess, bringing the dark world of Hyrule to life in HD.
25. The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords
Released: 2002
Platform: Game Boy Advance
This multiplayer game allows players to work together to solve puzzles and defeat enemies, promoting teamwork in the Zelda universe.
Conclusion
The Legend of Zelda series has consistently pushed the boundaries of gaming, offering innovative gameplay and unforgettable stories. From the iconic adventures of Link to the rich lore of Hyrule, these top 25 games showcase the franchise's evolution and enduring legacy. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, there's a game for everyone to enjoy in this legendary collection.
