Ranking The Top Zelda Games Of All Time: Our Ultimate List!

Are you a fan of The Legend of Zelda series? Are you curious about which game is considered the greatest of all time? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the top Zelda games ever made, including classics such as A Link to the Past and Ocarina of Time, as well as more recent additions like Breath of the Wild. Join us as we take a trip down memory lane and rank these beloved games from worst to best.

The Legend of Zelda

Introduction:

The Legend of Zelda is a classic adventure game that has been enchanting players since its inception in 1986. Created by legendary game designer Shigeru Miyamoto and published by Nintendo, the series has evolved over more than 30 years, with 19 different games released to date. Many of them are considered among the greatest video games ever made, featuring memorable characters, intricate puzzles, and beautiful environments.

Additional Information:

The Legend of Zelda is often praised for its exploration-heavy gameplay, which encourages players to seek out new areas and hidden secrets. The games always feature a vast open world to explore, filled with dungeons to conquer and puzzles to solve. Another key feature of the series is the use of magical items and weapons that Link, the hero of the games, can use to defeat enemies and overcome obstacles. Over time, the series has introduced different gameplay mechanics and visual styles, but the core elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat have remained constant.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is The Legend of Zelda about?
The Legend of Zelda follows the adventures of Link, a courageous hero tasked with rescuing Princess Zelda and saving the land of Hyrule from various threats. The story is usually set in a medieval fantasy world and features mythical creatures and powerful magic.

• How many Zelda games are there?
As of 2021, there are 19 officially released games in the main Legend of Zelda series, plus several spin-offs and remakes.

• Can you play The Legend of Zelda on modern systems?
Yes, most Zelda games are available on modern consoles such as the Nintendo Switch or as remakes for other platforms.

Main Points:

– The Legend of Zelda is a classic adventure game known for its exploration-heavy gameplay, magical items, and memorable characters.
– The series has been around for more than 30 years and has released 19 different games to date.
– The games usually follow Link, a hero on a quest to save Princess Zelda and the land of Hyrule.
– The series features a vast open world, detailed dungeons, intricate puzzles, and challenging combat.
– The Legend of Zelda games are available on modern consoles and platforms, making them accessible to new and old players alike.

Explanation:

The introduction provides an overview of The Legend of Zelda and its significance as a classic adventure game. It highlights the main features of the series, such as exploration, magic, and memorable characters. The additional information focuses on the gameplay mechanics and visual style of the games, while the frequently asked questions section addresses common queries regarding the series, its storyline, and its availability. Finally, the main points summarize what readers can expect from the article and mention the primary keywords related to The Legend of Zelda. Together, these sections provide a comprehensive introduction to the topic and help readers understand what The Legend of Zelda is all about.

A Link to the Past

Introduction:

“A Link to the Past” is one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed games in the “Legend of Zelda” franchise. Developed and published by Nintendo for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), “A Link to the Past” was first released in 1991, and it remains a classic to this day. The game features iconic characters like Link and Princess Zelda, an engaging storyline, and challenging puzzles that keep players coming back for more.

Additional information:

– “A Link to the Past” is widely considered one of the best games in the “Legend of Zelda” series, alongside “Ocarina of Time” and “Breath of the Wild”.
– The game takes place in the kingdom of Hyrule, where Link must rescue Zelda from the clutches of the evil wizard Agahnim and the dark world of Ganon.
– “A Link to the Past” introduced several new features to the Zelda series, including the Master Sword, the Hookshot, and the Pegasus Boots.
– The game’s graphics and music were groundbreaking for its time, and it has inspired numerous sequels and spin-offs.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Is “A Link to the Past” available on modern consoles?
A: Yes! The game has been re-released on multiple platforms, including the Game Boy Advance, Wii Virtual Console, and SNES Classic Edition.

Q: How long does it take to beat “A Link to the Past”?
A: The game can take anywhere from 12-20 hours to complete, depending on the player’s skill level and how many sidequests they choose to complete.

Q: What makes “A Link to the Past” so special?
A: The game has a timeless charm that captures the essence of what makes the Zelda series great. It combines exploration, combat, puzzles, and a captivating story to create a truly immersive experience.

Main points:

– “A Link to the Past” is one of the most iconic games in the “Legend of Zelda” franchise.
– The game features engaging gameplay, memorable characters, and a captivating storyline.
– It introduced several new features to the Zelda series, which have since become staples of the franchise.
– The game’s graphics and music were groundbreaking for their time.
– “A Link to the Past” is widely considered one of the best games in the series and has been re-released multiple times to critical acclaim.

Step-by-step:

1. Provide a brief overview of “A Link to the Past” and its place in the “Legend of Zelda” franchise.
2. Explain why the game is considered one of the best in the series by highlighting its unique features and gameplay.
3. Address common questions that players might have, such as availability and playtime.
4. Emphasize the game’s impact on the gaming industry and its enduring influence on the Zelda franchise.
5. Provide additional context and insights as needed to engage readers and showcase the game’s enduring appeal.

Ocarina of Time

Introduction:
Released in 1998 for the Nintendo 64, “Ocarina of Time” is considered by many to be the pinnacle of the iconic “Legend of Zelda” franchise. It has won many awards and nominations, and still holds up as one of the most beloved games of all time. What makes “Ocarina of Time” so special and enduring? Let’s take a closer look.

Main Points:
– “Ocarina of Time” is often ranked as the best “Zelda” game, and one of the best video games ever made.
– It was a groundbreaking game at the time of its release, setting many standards in the gaming industry that are still used today.
– The game combines action, adventure, puzzle-solving, and exploration in a massive 3D world.
– “Ocarina of Time” has a compelling story with memorable characters, and a time-traveling gameplay mechanic that adds depth and complexity.
– The game has been re-released on various platforms, including the Nintendo 3DS, and still holds up as a must-play game for any “Zelda” or gaming fan.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What is the gameplay like in “Ocarina of Time”?
A: The gameplay involves exploring a vast 3D world, solving puzzles, battling enemies, and collecting items and weapons. The game also features a unique time-traveling mechanic where the player can travel back and forth between two time periods.

Q: Who is the main character in “Ocarina of Time”?
A: The main character is Link, a young boy who sets out on a quest to save the land of Hyrule from the evil Ganondorf.

Q: Is “Ocarina of Time” available on modern platforms?
A: Yes, the game has been re-released on the Nintendo 3DS and is also available on the Wii U virtual console.

Step-by-Step Explanation:
1. Introduce “Ocarina of Time” as one of the top “Zelda” games.
2. Provide information about why the game is so popular and enduring.
3. Give an overview of what the gameplay and story are like.
4. Answer frequently asked questions about the game’s mechanics and availability.
5. Emphasize the importance and relevance of “Ocarina of Time” for fans of the “Zelda” franchise and gamers in general.

Majora’s Mask

Introduction:

The Legend of Zelda franchise has been popular since its first game’s release in 1986, and one of the greatest games in the series is “Majora’s Mask.” This game was released in 2000 for the Nintendo 64 console and was praised by critics and players alike for its unique gameplay mechanics, storyline, and world design.

Additional Information:

– Majora’s Mask is known for its darker and more mature tone compared to other Zelda games.
– The game follows Link as he tries to stop the moon from crashing into the land of Termina within only three in-game days.
– The game features a time loop mechanic that requires the player to keep rewinding time to progress.
– Players can transform into various characters with their abilities, adding a new level of strategy to the gameplay.
– The game’s story tackles themes of death, loss, and grief, making it emotionally impactful and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What’s the difference between Majora’s Mask and other Zelda games?
A: Majora’s Mask has a darker tone, features a unique time loop mechanic, and tackles more mature themes.

Q: Is Majora’s Mask a difficult game to play?
A: The game’s mechanics can be challenging at first, but once you understand them, the game becomes a lot of fun.

Q: Do I need to have played other Zelda games to enjoy Majora’s Mask?
A: No, you don’t. The game stands on its own, and you won’t need any prior knowledge of other Zelda games to enjoy it.

Main Points:

– Majora’s Mask is one of the best Zelda games.
– The game features a unique time loop mechanic and mature storyline.
– Players can transform into different characters, adding more strategy to the game.
– The game tackles themes of grief, loss, and death.
– Majora’s Mask is a challenging but rewarding game to play.

Step-by-step Explanation:

1. Start with an introduction about Majora’s Mask and its place in the Zelda franchise.
2. Provide additional information about the game, including its tone, storyline, world design, and unique gameplay mechanics.
3. Answer frequently asked questions about the game in a bullet-point format.
4. Highlight the main points of the article, including the primary keywords.
5. Provide a step-by-step explanation of the main points and their significance.

The Wind Waker

Introduction:

“The Wind Waker” is one of the most highly acclaimed video games in the Legend of Zelda series. Developed by Nintendo, it was released for Nintendo GameCube in 2002, and later for Wii U in 2013. The game’s art style is a departure from the conventional realistic look of most Zelda games, featuring a highly stylized world with a vibrant, cartoon-like aesthetic.

Additional Information:

– One of the most notable features of “The Wind Waker” is its sailing mechanic. The player must navigate the vast ocean surrounding the game’s world using a sailboat, with various islands and secrets hidden throughout. This open-world nature makes “The Wind Waker” one of the most expansive Zelda games.
– Another standout aspect of the game is its story. Without giving away too many spoilers, “The Wind Waker” features a surprisingly emotional and mature narrative that explores themes of family, legacy, and the nature of heroism.
– Fans of the Zelda series often debate the merits of “The Wind Waker”‘s art style, which many see as a departure from the series’ traditional look. However, the game’s unique aesthetic has also earned it a large following of fans who appreciate its whimsical, colorful world.

Frequently Asked Questions:

– Q: How does the sailing gameplay work in “The Wind Waker”?
A: The player must control a sailboat using the GameCube controller’s analog stick, adjusting the sail’s angle to catch the wind and steer. The boat can also be upgraded with various items and weapons.
– Q: Is the story of “The Wind Waker” connected to other Zelda games?
A: Yes, “The Wind Waker” takes place in the same universe as other Zelda games, but the story is set in a different era and follows different characters.
– Q: What is the combat like in “The Wind Waker”?
A: The game features a similar combat system to other 3D Zelda games, with the player using a variety of weapons and items to fight enemies. However, “The Wind Waker” also introduces a parry mechanic where the player can deflect enemy attacks with a well-timed button press.

Main Points:

– “The Wind Waker” is a highly acclaimed Zelda game featuring a unique art style and open-world sailing mechanic.
– The game’s story is emotionally mature and explores themes of family and heroism.
– “The Wind Waker” is set in the same universe as other Zelda games but is set in a different era and features different characters.
– The game’s combat system is similar to other 3D Zelda games but introduces a parry mechanic.

Twilight Princess

Introduction:

When we hear the name “Legend of Zelda,” one of the first things that come to our mind is the game that defines its genre. “Twilight Princess” is one of the best Zelda games ever made. It is a game that has captured the hearts and minds of video game enthusiasts all over the world since its release in 2006. Fans of the franchise have returned to this game time and time again, and for newcomers, it continues to be a classic that should not be missed.

Additional Information:

– “Twilight Princess” was released for the Nintendo Wii and Nintendo GameCube consoles in 2006.
– The game takes place in the land of Hyrule, where Link, the series’ protagonist, navigates through a world plunged into darkness and corrupted by powerful, dark magic.
– The storyline is immersive and engaging, with puzzles, riddles, and battles that progressively become more challenging.
– The game received widespread critical acclaim, praised for its gameplay, graphics, and storyline, and won several awards, including Game of the Year from IGN in 2006.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What are the unique features of “Twilight Princess”?
A: The game has a lot of great features, including immersive gameplay, challenging puzzles, and a deeply engaging storyline, one that fans of the series will love.

Q: What is the difference between the Wii and GameCube versions?
A: There are a few differences between the two versions, with the Wii version offering motion controls and the GameCube version having traditional controller inputs, but ultimately, the differences are minimal.

Q: Is “Twilight Princess” a good game for newcomers to the Zelda series?
A: Absolutely! This game is an excellent place for newcomers to jump in and get a feel for the series, especially if they’re looking for a darker, more mature storyline.

Main Points:

– “Twilight Princess” is one of the best Zelda games ever made.
– Released in 2006, the game is available on Nintendo Wii and Nintendo GameCube consoles.
– The game takes place in the land of Hyrule, where Link navigates through a world plunged into darkness and corrupted by powerful, dark magic.
– The game received widespread critical acclaim and won several awards, including Game of the Year from IGN in 2006.
– The game is perfect for newcomers to the series, with immersive gameplay, challenging puzzles, and a deeply engaging storyline.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Start with an eye-catching introduction to the article about the top Zelda games, focusing on “Twilight Princess.”
2. Give some additional information about the game, including when it was released, the consoles it is available on, and the general plot of the game.
3. Address some frequently asked questions that people might have about the game.
4. Highlight the main points about “Twilight Princess,” encapsulating the essential information you want to convey.
5. Use a step-by-step approach to explain the information provided above.

Skyward Sword

Introduction:

“Skyward Sword” is one of the most iconic games in the Legend of Zelda series. This game was released for the Nintendo Wii console in 2011 and has been well-received by fans and critics alike. It tells the story of Link’s journey to rescue his beloved, Zelda, and to stop the ancient evil, Demise. “Skyward Sword” is known for its unique gameplay mechanics and its captivating storyline, which set a new standard for Zelda games.

Frequently Asked Questions:

– What makes “Skyward Sword” different from other Zelda games?
The game features an innovative gameplay mechanic where players have to use the Wii Remote Plus to swing Link’s sword and perform various actions, such as swimming and flying. This mechanic adds a new level of immersion to the game and sets it apart from the other Zelda games.
– Is “Skyward Sword” beginner-friendly?
The game has a slow start, but it gradually introduces players to its mechanics and features. The game also has a tutorial mode that guides players through the controls and gameplay.
– How long does it take to complete “Skyward Sword”?
The game has a main story that takes roughly 30-40 hours to complete. However, there are also side quests and other content that can extend the gameplay time.
– Is “Skyward Sword” available on other platforms?
Currently, “Skyward Sword” is only available on the Nintendo Wii console. However, Nintendo has announced a remastered version of the game for the Nintendo Switch, set to be released in July 2021.

Main Points:

– “Skyward Sword” is a classic game in the Legend of Zelda series, with a unique gameplay mechanic and captivating storyline.
– The Wii Remote Plus is utilized in the game to swing Link’s sword and perform various actions.
– The game has a slow start but gradually introduces players to its mechanics and features.
– It takes roughly 30-40 hours to complete the main story, with additional content to extend gameplay.
– “Skyward Sword” will be available on the Nintendo Switch in July 2021, remastered for modern platforms.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Begin by introducing “Skyward Sword”, explaining its status as a classic Zelda game with a unique gameplay mechanic and captivating storyline.
2. Use frequently asked questions to address common concerns about the game, such as its accessibility for beginner players and how long it takes to complete.
3. Highlight the main points, including the Wii Remote Plus gameplay mechanic and the extended gameplay time due to side quests.
4. End by explaining that a remastered version of “Skyward Sword” will be available on the Nintendo Switch in July 2021, ensuring that modern players can experience this classic game.

Breath of the Wild.

Introduction:

Legend of Zelda is a timeless classic, and Breath of the Wild is one of the most sought-after games in the franchise. It was released on March 3, 2017, and it was immediately recognized as one of the best video games ever made. It has won numerous awards, including the Game of the Year award given by multiple gaming organizations. Breath of the Wild is an open-world action-adventure game that has surpassed the expectations of many gamers.

Additional information:

Some elements that people usually care about while playing Breath of the Wild include:

– Graphics: Breath of the Wild has exceptional graphics which make it stand out, especially when played on the Nintendo Switch or WiiU consoles.

– Open-World: Players can explore a vast open-world filled with surprises, hidden secrets, and challenging enemies.

– Gameplay: The gameplay mechanics in Breath of the Wild are unique and immersive. Players are free to play the game in any way they want, and the possibilities are endless.

– Story: The plot of Breath of the Wild is captivating, with many twists and turns that keep the player engaged.

FAQs:

Q: Can I play Breath of the Wild on any console other than Nintendo Switch and WiiU?
A: No, Breath of the Wild is exclusively available on Nintendo Switch and WiiU.

Q: Do I need to play previous Legend of Zelda games to understand the story in Breath of the Wild?
A: No, the plot in Breath of the Wild stands alone, and one does not need to play previous games to understand it.

Q: Is Breath of the Wild a multiplayer game?
A: No, Breath of the Wild is a single-player game.

Main points:

– Breath of the Wild is an award-winning open-world action-adventure game.
– Elements that people care about when playing Breath of the Wild include graphics, open-world, gameplay, and the story.
– Breath of the Wild is exclusively available on Nintendo Switch and WiiU consoles.
– One can play Breath of the Wild without having to play previous Legend of Zelda games.

Explanation:

Breath of the Wild is an epic game that offers players countless hours of gameplay. It has stunning graphics, and players can explore a massive open-world that offers different terrains, puzzles, and enemies. The gameplay mechanics allow players to play the game in different ways, and players can decide how they want to approach each challenge. The plot in Breath of the Wild is captivating and has several twists and turns that keep players engaged. It is a game that is guaranteed to provide an immersive experience.

In conclusion, the Legend of Zelda franchise has captivated fans for over three decades with epic adventures, creative puzzles, and engaging gameplay. Ranking the top Zelda games of all time is not an easy task, but we hope our list provides you with some insight and nostalgia for the games that have impacted players’ lives. Whether you prefer the classic sense of exploration in A Link to the Past or the revolutionary open-world of Breath of the Wild, the Legend of Zelda franchise continues to shine as a beacon of excellence in the gaming industry.