All Legend of Zelda games ranked from best to worst. When people think of Nintendo mascot characters, two characters usually come to mind: Mario and Link. The latter stars in The Legend of Zelda series, which expands its games with an epic new entry every few years.
But which is the best The Legend of Zelda game? Let's look at all Legend of Zelda Games. The series has a lot of variety, with original games dating back to the NES and later games like the open-world Tears of the Kingdom on the Nintendo Switch. Here you can find all The Legend of Zelda games ranked from best to worst by gameplay, characters, world, story, popularity and much more.
Tears of the Kingdom
Tears of the Kingdom shows how to make a sequel to one of the most influential games of all time. It takes everything Breath of the Wild had and improves on every inch of it. The world is much bigger, offers so much more to do – so much so that it feels alive – and the powers are the best in the series. Players can spend years playing this game alone and still discover unforgettable moments. Not only is this the number one game in the series, it also ranks among the best must-play games in the history of the media.
Ocarina of Time 3D
When it comes to the best games of all time, one title consistently rises to the top: Ocarina of Time. A prime example of how to transition a 2D series into the 3D space, this game also represents the pinnacle of the most stereotypical Zelda gameplay players have come to expect, from temple dungeons to tight world with tons of content to do. Playing at two key points in Link's life leads to incredible twists and unforgettable characters.
Breath of the Wild
If there's one achievement the video game industry has known for this series, it's that it revolutionized gameplay in its own unique ways. Take Breath of the Wild, which returns the series to its open-world roots. Players can go wherever they want and do whatever they want with almost no restrictions. While it may lack traditional dungeons and a proper story, its quiet and immersive world is nothing like it.
Majora's Mask 3D
A direct sequel to one of the best Zelda games, it couldn't be more different from its predecessor. Look no further for the darkest, most disturbing and unique gaming experience in the series. Link finds himself in the twisted world of Terminus, where he has three days to stop the moon from crashing into the earth. Knowing that the end is near, each character embarks on a gripping and emotional adventure in fear.
The Minash Cap
It's funny to think that the most impressive 2D Zelda experience came not from Nintendo, but from Capcom. This GBA game is full of color and beauty, with a style unlike any other game in the series. It perfects 2D dungeons and combat, with its puzzles and items deep enough to deliver the most rewarding pure handheld experience in the series.
Twilight Princess HD
The rich, mature style and story of this GameCube and Wii entry are iconic in the community. Although it has a troubled pace, it is one of the darkest entries in the series for those looking for the antithesis of The Wind Waker. Tight combat and story envelop the player in the story of Midna and Link.
A Link to the Past
For many, this game stands out as one of the most loved games in the series. After all, the third mainline title featured some of the most stunning pixel art in the series, as well as a gameplay style that's still used decades later. Its innovations were new and a real treat for those who checked them out in the 1990s.
A Link Between Worlds
For the most part, A Link Between Worlds is a modern take on A Link to the Past, but in a sequel format. While it improves on some elements, such as the free progression system, it also lacks the charm of the original. His lack of notoriety puts him just below the muse.
Skyward Sword HD
Skyward Sword brought a big comeback to the series. When it was released on Wii, many fans disliked the motion controls, gameplay, and overall experience. But its release on Switch gave it a definite second chance. Better gameplay helps it shine as one of the series' brightest spots, especially when it comes to the most emotional and deep relationship between Link and Zelda.
The Wind Waker HD
An HD rendition of one of the series' most controversial games helped it reach its potential. Its graphical cel-shaded style has aged best among the Zelda games on the Nintendo GameCube and before. Its sea-based setting and absurdist approach to the characters earned it a place in the top 10 on this list.
Link's Awakening (2019)
The remake of the 1990s handheld game on Nintendo Switch breathes new life into the old entry. It had amazing graphics with a great toy box style. Nothing matched this game graphically at the time, and the gameplay changes have made it a pleasure to play for new and old fans alike.
SpiritTracks
Link's second Nintendo DS release is one of the best handheld games in the series. Nintendo has improved the overall tactile experience as well as a better story with the central inclusion of Princess Zelda. This mainline game is among the most underrated games in the series that no one should miss.
The Legend of Zelda
All the games on this list owe this game thanks for their existence. It also formed the basis for many tropes and ideas that would become prevalent throughout the series. As one of the first open-world games, it's fascinating that players can progress through most of the game in any order they choose. Although the gameplay isn't as fun today as it was in 1986, it remains one of the most important video games in history.
Phantom Hourglass
The first sequel to The Wind Waker is a worthy game and one of the best handheld-only Zelda games. It feels like a true 3D-style experience for the Nintendo DS, with fun exploration, good puzzles, and a solid story. While not as good as the direct sequel, the unique touch controls work well.
Oracle of Ages
The pair of Ages and Seasons are almost too similar. However, some key differences elevate Ages slightly above its twin. The time travel mechanic isn't unique, but the more puzzle-centric gameplay paves the way for a better story and world to explore. It also helps to play this game first as players can transfer progress.
Oracle of Seasons
Seasons falls just short of its sister game by focusing much more on combat. This results in a game that lacks depth and has a very confusing world. It also lacks the story and characters of the other game, with a simple plot that doesn't capture the player's attention enough.
Link's Awakening DX (1998)
While the remake of this game is a worthy title for the series, the original is struggling to play well these days. Link finds himself on an island where he has to go through dungeons and meet characters like Marin instead of Princess Zelda. The graphics and gameplay are very shallow, which is why there's a remake in the first place.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
A direct sequel to the first game in the series, it's as disappointing as they come. It turned everything upside down with its 2D side-scrolling gameplay and challenging dungeons. While it offers a unique perspective on Link from a gameplay perspective, players have little reason to return to this game for real fun.
Four Swords Adventures
Nintendo GameCube offers one of the best multiplayer games with Link and friends. Players team up with up to four people to traverse eight worlds and various boss battles. While it's a linear and underwhelming entry in the long-running series, there's some fun here.
Triforce Heroes
This Nintendo 3DS was not the game fans wanted at the time. In another multiplayer adventure, three Links team up for a multiplayer experience filled with combat and puzzles. But the poor online connection and lack of quality single-player content really hurt the game's playability.
Four Swords
When it comes to multiplayer gaming, Link and his adventures don't come to mind, and for good reason. This GBA game condenses the gameplay of A Link to the Past into a two- to four-player experience. This sounds intriguing at first, but the rough execution makes it hard to recommend.
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