Best Legend of Zelda Games, Ranked: From Classics to “Echoes of Wisdom”

The Legend of Zelda series is a cornerstone of gaming history, beloved by generations of players since the release of the first game in 1986. With over 20 mainline titles, each game has contributed something unique to the Zelda universe, from innovative mechanics to unforgettable storylines and characters. Central to these games are the hero, Link, and the titular princess, Zelda, whose adventures have evolved over decades. The series continues to push boundaries with its latest release, Echoes of Wisdom (2023). But how does this new entry stack up against its legendary predecessors? Here’s a ranking of the best Legend of Zelda games, including Echoes of Wisdom.

11. The Minish Cap (2004)

A charming adventure on the Game Boy Advance, The Minish Cap tells the story of a young Link who must shrink down to interact with the Minish, a tiny race only visible to children. The game offers a fresh perspective by allowing Link to explore everyday objects from a minuscule viewpoint, solving clever puzzles along the way. Developed by Capcom and published by Nintendo, it remains a fun, albeit shorter, entry in the series.

10. Twilight Princess (2006)

Twilight Princess marked a darker shift for the series, with its grim portrayal of Hyrule being consumed by the Twilight Realm. Launching alongside the Wii, this game introduced new mechanics like Link’s ability to transform into a wolf. Its edgier tone, cinematic quality, and deep storyline garnered praise, although some felt it paled in comparison to earlier titles. Nevertheless, it has aged well and is appreciated for its distinct atmosphere and expansive world.

9. Echoes of Wisdom (2023)

The latest in the series, Echoes of Wisdom, takes a bold step by putting Princess Zelda in the lead role for the first time. As rifts open across Hyrule, Zelda must navigate a world where Link and others have mysteriously disappeared. Armed with new abilities, including the power to create “echoes” or copies of objects and creatures, Zelda’s journey is packed with heart, clever puzzles, and a refreshing perspective. The game delivers a delightful experience that’s both familiar and novel, offering fans a deeper connection to Zelda herself.

8. The Wind Waker (2003)

One of the most visually distinct games in the series, The Wind Waker features a cel-shaded, cartoon-like art style. Link takes to the seas in this adventure, exploring islands and battling foes to save his sister and stop Ganondorf. While the game’s open-sea exploration is initially captivating, the repetitive nature of sailing can slow the pacing. Still, The Wind Waker is beloved for its charm, characters, and enduring artistic style.

7. The Legend of Zelda (1986)

The game that started it all. Released for the NES, the original Legend of Zelda introduced players to the vast world of Hyrule, where Link sets out to rescue Princess Zelda and defeat the evil Ganon. Despite its simple story and graphics by today’s standards, it revolutionized the gaming industry with its non-linear gameplay, open-world exploration, and the introduction of save files, allowing players to return to their progress.

6. Majora’s Mask (2000)

Majora’s Mask takes a departure from the usual Zelda formula, placing Link in Termina, a parallel world to Hyrule, where he has just three days to prevent the moon from crashing into the planet. The game’s darker themes, time-based mechanics, and unique mask system, which allows Link to transform into different creatures, set it apart. The time limit adds tension, making it one of the more intense entries in the series.

5. A Link to the Past (1992)

A Link to the Past was groundbreaking in its introduction of parallel worlds, a concept that would become a staple of the series. The game’s expansive exploration, challenging dungeons, and captivating story set a new standard for action-adventure games. It remains a fan favorite and is often regarded as one of the best games of the Super Nintendo era.

4. Link’s Awakening (1993)

Set far from Hyrule, Link’s Awakening offers a quirky, surreal adventure as Link attempts to awaken the Wind Fish and return home. Released for the Game Boy, it was the first handheld Zelda game and quickly became a classic. Its 2019 remake for the Nintendo Switch, with adorable new visuals and improved gameplay, reintroduced this charming adventure to a new generation.

3. Ocarina of Time (1998)

Often cited as one of the greatest video games of all time, Ocarina of Time introduced players to a fully 3D Hyrule on the N64. The game’s innovative use of time travel, deep storyline, and groundbreaking mechanics set a new standard for the series and the genre. While its graphics may feel outdated today, its impact on gaming history is undeniable.

2. Breath of the Wild (2017)

Breath of the Wild revolutionized the Zelda formula with its vast, open-world design, offering players unprecedented freedom to explore Hyrule at their own pace. With beautiful graphics, physics-based puzzles, and a dynamic environment, it quickly became a best-seller and won numerous Game of the Year awards.

1. Tears of the Kingdom (2023)

The direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom builds on the foundation of its predecessor with refined mechanics, an expanded world, and a rich, emotional storyline. Players once again guide Link through a breathtaking adventure, this time facing off against a new form of evil. The game’s deep lore, new puzzles, and seamless integration of sky islands and underground regions make it a truly epic experience.