In 2023, to celebrate the remarkable Tears of the Kingdom , Pawonation.com celebrated Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda The series is captivating. Maybe no other video game franchise offers as much enjoyment when revisiting, or showcases such dramatically varied interpretations of its central concept—while still maintaining consistency throughout.
Developed by the legendary Shigeru Miyamoto in the 1980s, "Zelda" was inspired by his youthful adventures of exploration without guidance. The game series has consistently been highly regarded within gaming circles but didn’t achieve widespread popularity—until its unexpected resurgence in 2017. This turnaround can be attributed largely to the immense success of the Nintendo Switch and the innovative approach of its latest installment. Breath of the Wild .
The series’ strong traditions are balanced by an ingrained habit of hitting the reset button. Across 16 mainline entries, only a small handful ( Majora’s Mask , Phantom Hourglass , Tears of the Kingdom ) are genuine continuations, and even these take pleasure in reinventing themselves. Zelda timeline It is more a confused mix of rumors and myths rather than a well-established doctrine, and its traditions are continually being revised.
Organizing these exceptional, metamorphic games into a hierarchy might seem like a pointless endeavor. Each one is fantastic—okay, maybe not entirely every single one; however, the best seven or eight stand out as works of art that can be listed in practically any sequence. Yet, it serves as an intriguing exploration of a collection of titles engaged in a distinctive dialogue among themselves. When compiling this list, we gave considerable weight to the current enjoyment factor of playing these games as well as their significance in gaming history.
Several housekeeping notes: Although they are officially considered part of the primary Zelda timeline, we have omitted the multiplayer titles from our list. Four Swords , Four Swords Adventures , and Tri Force Heroes They're challenging to play as originally intended by their creators nowadays, and frankly, they seem more like spin-offs. Four Swords Adventures, in particular, absolutely rules). Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages , which were released together, have been grouped into one entry. Actual spin-offs like Link’s Crossbow Training or Freshly-Picked Tingle’s Rosy Rupeeland are also excluded. The Zelda series is wonderfully bizarre — but perhaps not that weird.
17. Zelda II: The Adventures of Link
Original release: 1987, on NES
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online
If the original The Legend of Zelda is the series at its liveliest, spirited, and hopeful phase, Zelda II: The Adventures of Link encompasses the game’s clumsy adolescent phase. Appropriately enough, the Link we control during this period represents that. Zelda 2 at 16 years old, he's navigating unfamiliar game dynamics as Nintendo ventures into simplified RPG elements with a side-view approach. The experience spans perilous overworld sections for exploration and just as challenging sidescrolling dungeons. Zelda 2 Is a more difficult, more cryptic type of adventure.
For a long time, this has been seen as the black sheep among the Legend of Zelda series. The Adventure of Link It was a more challenging and less refined project for Nintendo. The concept combined elements of an action game with RPG statistics, but the final product seems likeNintendo’s developers drawing inspiration from other works (for instance, Dragon Quest , Kung-Fu Master ) rather than showcasing the company’s signature uniqueness. Zelda 2 is not an unsuccessful trial , however. Nintendo evidently took the correct lessons from it, which also had an impact on other games, including Castlevania 2: Simon’s Quest , Faxanadu , and Shovel Knight Even the least favorable Zelda titles hold significance. —Michael McWhertor
16. Phantom Hourglass
Original release: 2007, on Nintendo DS
Where to play now: Unattainable — seek out a secondhand edition
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass encompasses a rather clunky period in The Legend of Zelda series. It serves as a immediate follow-up. The Wind Waker It had large footwear to live up to and managed it somewhat awkwardly. Phantom Hourglass It was the inaugural primary installment of the Zelda series available on the Nintendo DS lineup of portable consoles and marked the debut of a Zelda title leveraging the system’s touchscreen capabilities. Generally, these control adjustments seamlessly integrated into the established Zelda framework, enabling gamers to draw directly onto their map sheets and interact via tapping during battles. Nonetheless, the experience occasionally grapples with inconsistent tempos particularly when navigating aboard your personally tailored airship or repeatedly returning to the Temple of the Ocean King, which necessitates several revisitations. Despite these hiccups, what stands out about this entry is its bold experimentation with novel mechanics and exploration of fresh territory within the Zelda universe. —Ana Diaz
15. Echoes of Wisdom
Original release: 2024, on Nintendo Switch
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch
The first time Princess Zelda had an official leading role in the series named after her is one of the most innovative, yet simultaneously one of the most irritating , Zelda games. Nintendo worked with external developer Grezzo to make it, and Grezzo used the gorgeous, diorama-like engine it built for its 2019 Link’s Awakening remake. An initial effort to construct a Mario Maker -style creative game didn’t pan out; what remains of that project is Zelda’s unique power to copy and replicate enemies and objects. Echoes of Wisdom attempts to adapt the player's freedom Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom into an old-school, top-down Zelda-style format. It does not quite The interface can be finicky, and the design doesn’t fully embrace its capacity for complexity and strategic thinking. Nonetheless, even with these drawbacks, it remains a genuine Zelda title — and an intriguing one at that. —Oli Welsh
14. Twilight Princess
Original release: In 2006, on GameCube and Wii
Where to play now: Unobtainable — search for a pre-owned copy of Twilight Princess HD for Wii U
A significant portion of Link's time is spent in wolf form. Twilight Princess , which you might expect would make him more appealing (given how adorably cute he looks), but it turns out to be quite strange. After all, when Link is a wolf, he can't perform some of the coolest actions associated with being Link: like tossing a boomerang or spinning his sword while yelling "Hiya!" Twilight Princess Additionally, the game brings in Midna, who acts as a guide similar to Navi from previous installments but with a far more sarcastic demeanor. Her caustic remarks are highly enjoyable for me, and wrapping up her storyline near the game’s finale seems more gratifying compared to many of Princess Zelda’s storylines. In the Legend of Zelda series, secondary female characters often lack significant roles; however, by the time you reach the end of this installment, things improve notably for Midna. Twilight Princess Actually, it's more Midna's story than anyone else's. —Maddy Myers
13. Oracle of Ages / Oracle of Seasons
Original release: In 2001, on Game Boy Color
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online
In 2001, Nintendo handed over the reins of the legendary Zelda franchise to Capcom. To everyone’s surprise, Capcom did not just use what was provided; they broke through the doors of one of gaming’s most revered series and settled in comfortably. Marketed as an experience centered around time-related and seasonal challenges, this dual offering aimed to captivate players with its innovative puzzle elements. Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons are sleek and polished enough to have come directly from Nintendo’s own development studios. (It should be noted that series creator Shigeru Miyamoto provided significant high-level guidance during production.)
Ages ' s time-traveling puzzles stand out as some of the best within the 2D Zelda series, and Seasons ’ more action-oriented approach makes it a fresh entry in the otherwise “left-brained” franchise. Director Hidemaro Fujibayashi would go on to direct a handful of later Zelda games ( The Minish Cap , Skyward Sword , and — checks notes — Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Among them, however, when it comes to "classic" Zelda titles, only a few stand out. record the storyline on an epic level similar to Capcom’s lesser-known two-part series . —Mike Mahardy
12. Spirit Tracks
Original release: 2009, on Nintendo DS
Where to play now: Unobtainable — search for a secondhand edition
As continuations in this constantly evolving sequence are concerned, Spirit Tracks boasts one of the simplest, most direct concepts: it’s Phantom Hourglass However, this time featuring a train rather than a boat. Similar to its direct precursor, it heavily relies on stylus-based controls, navigating through maps, and an adventurous experience that starts off easily accessible but abruptly becomes challenging during the dark, sneaky, step-by-step climb up the main tower dungeon.
If Spirit Tracks ultimately surpasses Phantom Hourglass It’s due to its remarkable exuberance. The allure of its steam-train playset is undeniable, making it stand out as the sole installment in the series where both Link and Zelda—albeit with her appearing as a spirit—are present throughout the entire experience. Zelda has moments when she can interact indirectly by inhabiting metallic armors, adding to their charmingly sweet dynamic. All aboard! —OW
11. The Tale of Zelda
Original release: 1986, on NES
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online
It's uncommon for a game to impress me even more every year that passes. However, as trends evolve and fade, genres thrive and decline, and open worlds move further away from the challenges they faced in the late 2010s, this game remains remarkable. The Legend of Zelda keeps improving in my opinion. It's difficult to understand by current standards, filled with concealed entrances and complex transitions between different screens. If I had to choose, it would rank quite low among the "enjoyable" Zelda titles. However, it remains a foundational influence for many of today’s top games, whether they be open-world or not, and thus holds significant weight. took Nintendo 31 years to return to its refined concept of an extensive, enigmatic universe worthy of exploration Breath of the Wild . —M. Mahardy
10. Skyward Sword
Original release: 2011, on Nintendo Wii
Where to play now: Skyward Sword HD on Nintendo Switch
It's time to rediscover what might be the most persistently underappreciated title in the Legend of Zelda franchise. There are several reasons. Skyward Sword Its reputation has been damaged. Firstly, although its initial motion controls were well-executed, they aren’t how people want to experience such an extensive journey. Secondly, it features an overly dramatic finale reminiscent of something from a Hideo Kojima title. Lastly, it was released precisely when the Zelda series had reached a critical juncture. Ocarina of Time -inspired design was starting to show its age.
Skyward Sword turned out to be the final masterpiece of that period in The Legend of Zelda series — but what a farewell it was. This game is rich and deeply rewarding, meticulously crafted, featuring complex and ingeniously created dungeons that stand among the finest in the franchise’s legacy. Additionally, it possesses an uplifting, passionate essence. Skyward Sword Perhaps this is the most unadulterated representation of Zelda’s high-fantasy style—and the sole instance where the series wholeheartedly embraced its nature as a romance. —OW
9. A Connection Between Worlds
Original release: 2013, on Nintendo 3DS
Where to play now: The Boxed 3DS edition is still being produced.
I always found A Link Between Worlds This game stands out due to its innovative take on the traditional Zelda concept of exploring multiple dimensions. Rather than relying on mirrors to switch realms, here Link has the ability to turn into a two-dimensional painting. In this state, he can move across walls and delve into the sparkling fissures of both Hyrule and its dark twin, Lorule.
To me, Lorule stands out as one of the most intriguing iterations of Zelda’s iconic Dark World. Instead of being merely a desolate area teeming with foes, it serves as the setting for compassionate and valiant individuals striving for a superior existence. The gameplay excels, boasting what might be the most seamlessly integrated touchscreen controls within a Zelda title. Adding to this, it introduces an unorthodox weapon rental system that lets players venture freely from the outset. Moreover, the game’s name pays homage to the highly esteemed A Connection to the Past , and it definitely lives up to what its name suggests. —AD
8. The Minish Cap
Original release: In 2004, on the Game Boy Advance
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online with Expansion Pack
The Minish Cap is a secret treasure of the Zelda franchise Created by Capcom, this installment in the Zelda series features Link who encounters a talkative hat called Ezlo, which bestows upon him the ability to reduce himself to the size of a pea. This transformation into a miniature protagonist alters how we perceive Hyrule, enabling the creators to craft an immersive and detailed environment where players will battle against Vaafi and evade the perilous splash of raindrops.
Similarly to The Wind Waker , The Minish Cap tilts towards a whimsical appeal; you'll encounter eccentric swordmasters and converse with cattle masticating their food. The game features one of the most absurd gadgets from the Legend of Zelda series—a mystical walking stick that flips things over. Mix these delightful elements with impressive labyrinth designs, and you've got all the components for an outstanding addition to the Zelda franchise. Although it may not typically rank amongst the top titles in the series, The Minish Cap shines through in the small intricacies. —AD
7. Link’s Awakening
Original release: 1993, on Game Boy
Where to play now: Choose between its 1998 DX form for Game Boy Color on Nintendo Switch Online or the modernized 2019 Nintendo Switch remake
This was the first-ever Zelda game I played, so all of the references to other games flew over my head, as well as the quite clear indications of how the narrative would conclude . I felt puzzled, like numerous gamers do, regarding why "Zelda" appeared in the title (I thought perhaps the owl was called Zelda). Despite this— even though I encountered the typical Zelda elements and gameplay within the dreamy environment of Koholint Island instead of the expansive and well-defined land of Hyrule—their charm utterly enthralled me. Similar to numerous individuals mentioned here, Link’s Awakening It's an unconventional Zelda title, demonstrating that oddity and humor are integral parts of what makes a game fit into the broader concept of "being a Zelda game," alongside environmental puzzles or a magical sword carried by a hero who is perpetually reborn. —M. Myers
6. The Wind Waker
Original release: 2002, on GameCube
Where to play now: Unobtainable — search for a secondhand version of The Wind Waker HD for Wii U
The Wind Waker exudes a charm and distinct sense of personality that sets it apart from other titles in the Zelda series, making it stand out as a remarkable entry. The game fearlessly steered theLegend of Zeldain a daringly fresh artistic direction through its highly expressive, cartoonish visuals. Additionally, it featured one of my most beloved groups of characters within the franchise. Tetra offers a refreshing interpretation of Princess Zelda’s persona; she is portrayed as both an intrepid pirate captain and a competent ally for Link throughout his quest. Similarly, this iteration of Link brings something uniquely special to the table. One of my favorite links , characterized by his humorous facial expressions and clumsy behavior.
This game stirred my emotions more deeply than any other entry in The Legend of Zelda series, particularly when Link gives a heartfelt farewell with his little waving hands to his grandmother. It remains highly entertaining throughout. Features such as the adaptive soundtrack, which shifts to string instrument tones whenever Link strikes an enemy during battle, enhance its dynamic combat system. From the bratty children to the classic aesthetic design, every aspect of the game holds charm. In my view, these elements blend perfectly to create the ideal Zelda experience. —AD
5. Ocarina of Time
Original release: 1998, on Nintendo 64
Where to play now: Select either the original version available through Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, or the Ocarina of Time 3D remastered for 3DS (the boxed version remains available)
Just as Twilight Princess is secretly Midna’s game, Ocarina of Time It is secretly Zelda's game—or maybe it belongs to Sheik. While it might not be considered the finest Zelda title by today's benchmarks, Ocarina of Time Establish a standard against which all following installments have been assessed, especially concerning narrative techniques and universe construction. It presents the appearance of an expansive Hyrule, sowing the seeds for a landscape that would flourish subsequently. Breath of the Wild . And it’s the game with a time-travel story that fragmented the whole series into separate storylines Perhaps the most crucial element in the larger Ganondorf story remains as significant today as ever. It’s unfortunate that its finest iteration is currently confined to theNintendo 3DS platform—at least for the time being. —M. Myers
4. The Wind's Breathing
Original release: In 2017, on Nintendo Switch and Wii U
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch
Breath of the Wild encompasses the most significant transformation the Zelda franchise has undergone since transitioning to 3D. Ocarina of Time In reality, this could be the most significant change yet as it boldly discards many of the iconic elements from a beloved gaming franchise. Nintendo aimed to update The Legend of Zelda for contemporary times while simultaneously breaking away from three decades of established conventions, right back to the wild adventures featured in the original game.
There’s little point in mentioning just how successful it was: Breath of the Wild It elevated the Zelda franchise to unprecedented levels of popularity and pushed the boundaries of open-world and role-playing game design in ways that continue to influence the industry today. This vibrant, fluid, and intensely engaging journey secures its place high on our list but falls just short due to subsequent developments. —OW
3. A Connection to the Past
Original release: 1991, on SNES
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch Online
Working on this ranked list has got me reflecting on what truly makes a Zelda game outstanding, and I believe it comes down to those moments of epiphany. A Connection to the Past delivers many delightful epiphanies repeatedly. You discover that a damaged wall can explode to uncover a secret passage — oooh! When you first receive a completely new tool, you immediately understand precisely how to utilize it. aha! You suddenly figure out the trick to a boss fight — take that! And then you realize that you have not even come close — not even close — to witnessing all the findings presented here . A Connection to the Past provides a sheer dopamine boost from the thrill of uncovering secrets, making you smile wider with each fresh disclosure. It simply feels amazing. —M. Myers
2. Majora’s Mask
Original release: 2000, on Nintendo 64
Where to play now: Select either the original version available with Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, or the Majora’s Mask 3D remastered for 3DS (the boxed edition is still being produced)
As we’re talking about a show so focused on music , let me offer you an analogy: Just as Ocarina of Time It's time travel was traditional in its method (graceful, elegant, and agile). Majora’s Mask It was time loop’s structure that evoked jazz: disjointed, chaotic, and demanding, yet illuminating nonetheless. Appearing two decades prior to the time-loop frenzy that swept through Outer Wilds , Deathloop , and 12 Minutes , Majora’s Mask Inserts Link into a three-day cycle that alternates between unraveling and rewinding within an enigmatic dreamscape teeming with characters pondering the looming doomsday. In comparison to the majority of titles in the franchise, Majora It primarily focuses on side quests centered around collecting masks. These quests reset each time Link returns to the beginning of the first day, ideally equipped with crucial information to enhance his collection and potentially rescue lives along the way.
Majora was the fervent response to a perplexing query: "How do we build upon the tremendous success of" Ocarina of Time And what about bridging the gap between the Nintendo 64 and the GameCube? The response nobody anticipated was an emotionally heavy, rhythmic tale of unfulfilled aspirations and troubled souls amidst Armageddon—the most introspective and individualistic "Zelda" yet. This installment stands out as the weirdest and bleakest in the franchise, and I highly doubt we will witness something similar in the future. —M. Mahardy
1. Tears of the Kingdom
Original release: 2023, on Nintendo Switch
Where to play now: Nintendo Switch
Each Zelda title builds on the ones preceding it, with even the inhabitants of its universe recognizing ancient legends. The creators behind Zelda—and notably Princess Zelda—hold firm belief in forecasting what’s ahead using lessons from history. As such, she initiates Tears of the Kingdom By leading Link past a sequence of ancient subterranean paintings.
Even Princess Zelda with all her wisdom could never have foreseen just how remarkable and magical her tale would ultimately prove to be. Tears of the Kingdom reflects this ongoing commitment: Even though you might think you grasp—given your experience with The Legend of Zelda series—the scale and inventiveness possible for these titles, the game’s world will still manage to astonish you. Tears of the Kingdom still surprises me. It's a present that I find unbelievable we all received. —M. Myers
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