The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most beloved video game franchises in the world, with its myriad of colorful characters, incredible stories, and puzzle-filled dungeons spanning over 20 games. Whether you easily solved puzzles from A Link to the Past or smacked your head against Breath of the Wild’s Divine Beasts for hours, it’s no stretch to say that we are witness to a life-changing legend of modern gaming. Here are the top 10 best Zelda games of all time.
10. The Legend of Zelda (1986)
The original Legend of Zelda is a game that will continue to stand the test of time; there is something truly magical about a relatively simple game from 1986 having such a lasting influence. You’re not going to find a list of the best Zelda games of all time without seeing the original “The Legend of Zelda” on the list, but we are not including it purely on nostalgia.
The game released millions of copies on the first day while collecting favorable reviews. With its iconic soundtrack, expansive dungeon puzzlers, and reliance on the player to progress without instruction or a set path, The Legend of Zelda truly left an indelible mark in gaming history. Some have even gone so far as to rank The Legend of Zelda among the greatest games ever made.
9. Link’s Awakening Remaster (2019)
We had to ensure that we clarified that the ninth spot on the list of best Zelda games went to the remake of Link’s Awakening, not the original game. Of course, whether the remake of Link’s Awakening is better than the original is up to a debate that’s been raging for years.
However, the remake of Nintendo’s classic Link’s Awakening deserves a spot on the list of best Zelda games of all time. The Link’s Awakening remake is a breath of fresh air for Zelda fans. Keeping true to the original game with its wonderfully nostalgic appeal, the graphics, and controls have been updated and improved to fit seamlessly into the modern age.
8. Breath of the Wild (2017)
Breath of the Wild has captured the adoration and attention of longtime fans, as well as those new to the Zelda series. As one of Nintendo’s strongest entries in recent years, its blend of traditional RPG elements, creative puzzles, and a vast open world provides an experience that is substantially different from other Zelda titles.
Breath of the Wild redefines what it means to be a Legend of Zelda game by offering greater freedom in progression than ever before. For a Zelda game, Breath of the Wild has one of the most impressive physics engines seen in Zelda history, making gameplay feel wholly immersive and authentic — ending up feeling less like a video game and more like a living, breathing world. Pun intended.
7. Skyward Sword (2011)
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword was a fan favorite in The Legend of Zelda series despite the fact that some fans felt the game was too linear. From a graphical perspective, the game was exactly what fans wanted and expected: colorful characters, lush environments, and an overall vivid atmosphere. However, this game differentiated itself the most because it took a unique approach to storytelling by adapting the overworld style adventure in older titles and combining that with the more narrative-driven elements found in newer releases.
Wii Motion Plus integration, which allowed for incredibly precise control of Link’s Sword (and more complaints than ever before), provided a more immersive gaming experience than ever before.
6. The Wind Waker (2002)
The Wind Waker made a huge splash in the best Zelda games library with its vibrant, cartoon-like graphics and unique cel-shaded art style. Despite initial confusion from dedicated fans who were used to the more realistic illustrations of other entries in the series, this graphical change was embraced by players because it allowed for a greater level of expression and lovingly detailed characters.
Furthermore, alongside incredible visuals, imaginative dungeons, and puzzles, The Wind Waker featured innovative sailing mechanics and introduced several new items along the way that enhanced players’ experiences and overall immersion into their journey. All of these elements contributed to the critical acclaim that this installment earned while still retaining Zelda’s unique charm.
5. Ocarina of Time (1998)
Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo 64 was a revolutionary step forward for the Zelda franchise when it arrived in 1998. There was no comparison to the 3D graphics and level design at the time, with intricately detailed dungeons and enemies. Ocarina of Time also introduced a feature that is now heavily associated with the Zelda series: A guide character (Navi).
This epic adventure stands up against any other in the long lineage of 3D Zelda’s released since; while others may have better puzzles or dungeon designs, none can match Ocarina’s innovative use of technology. Love or hate it – let’s face it, there’s no denying that Ocarina is one of the most important entries in The Legend of Zelda series and should continue to be mentioned amongst other Zelda classics.
4. A Link Between Worlds (1991)
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds was an incredibly unique experience compared to the other games in the series. Instead of playing through linear levels, this game allowed the player to explore different worlds in any order they wished. For those who enjoy puzzles, they were able to find satisfaction with the complex dungeons – there was even a “merge” feature allowing them to stick walls and perform daring maneuvers!
Playing The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is like eating dark chocolate – an indulgence worth every bite. The game features the traditional puzzles and action RPG-style combat we all know and love from previous Zelda games, combined with some clever and creative level design that makes it feel fresh, varied, and engaging.
3. A Link To the Past (1992)
Despite sitting at number three, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past is an absolute classic. It pushed the boundaries of what a game could be with its incredible depth and adventure. After all, it’s impossible to talk about the best Zelda games without mentioning this SNES gem. With its vast dungeons to explore, unique items to discover, and lovable characters to befriend, it quickly became a fan favorite.
Plus, its soundtrack is easily one of the finest gaming soundtracks of all time – so no matter whether you’re battling enemies or solving puzzles, there’s always a fantastic tune to keep your toes tapping!
2. Twilight Princess (2006)
Twilight Princess is certainly a unique game in the Zelda series—the graphics are beautiful, and the storyline is captivating. From a gameplay perspective, it’s like no other game in the series; you control Link with motion controls, which adds an extra level of difficulty and complexity. Additionally, there are more puzzles and mini-games requiring precision timing and problem-solving skills.
It has also been praised for its immersive soundtrack that turns pocket-sized adventures into epic battles with memorable villains. While some fans might say it is too hard or long for their tastes, those who manage to finish it will tell you that this game was well worth the effort.
1. Majora’s Mask (2000)
Please don’t hate us for elevating Majora’s Mask to the number one slot of best Zelda games. Everyone has their opinions. Despite the negative reception from fans that it initially got back in its debut, the game went on to become one of the best Zelda games ever created. This is all despite many Zelda fans feeling let down by those who felt it was a step back from Ocarina of Time. But here stands Majora’s Mask today: loved by some, hated by others – but never forgotten!
While all Zelda games undoubtedly pack a serious punch with captivating stories and thrilling gameplay, Majora’s Mask has something special about it that sets it apart from the other games in the series. From its urgent three-day time limit to its delightfully strange, adventurous tone, there’s just something uniquely irresistible about Majora’s Mask.
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