The launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 on June 5, 2025, marks a transformative moment for The Legend of Zelda franchise. Nintendo isn’t just upgrading hardware—it’s reimagining how fans will journey through Hyrule.
From dramatic visual enhancements in beloved titles to all-new entries and connected experiences, the next era of Zelda is poised to be its most expansive and ambitious yet.
Reimagined Classics: Upgraded Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom
Nintendo is leading its Switch 2 launch lineup with enhanced editions of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. These versions have been tailored specifically for the new hardware, unlocking powerful improvements:
| Feature | Upgrade on Switch 2 |
|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 4K visual output |
| Frame Rate | Steady 60fps for smoother gameplay |
| HDR Support | Richer colors and contrast with high dynamic range |
| Loading Times | Near-instant transitions and fast travel |
These editions bring Hyrule to life with stunning clarity, making exploration more immersive than ever. Notably, Nintendo is offering flexible upgrade paths:
- Free for Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscribers
- $10 Upgrade Pack for existing owners
- New Pricing: $70 for Breath of the Wild, $80 for Tears of the Kingdom
One caveat: the Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition does not include the Expansion Pass, which remains a separate purchase.
More Than Just Upgrades: Expanding the Zelda Library
Two more Zelda games—Link’s Awakening and Echoes of Wisdom—will receive free patches for Switch 2, offering:
- Optimized resolution for OLED and 4K TVs
- Enhanced textures and lighting
- Full HDR implementation
These updates ensure that even recent titles feel fresh and polished on Nintendo’s next-gen console.
Also returning is The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, available via the GameCube library in the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. Though not a full remaster, the re-release allows newer players to experience one of Zelda’s most beloved classics without needing legacy hardware.
New Game: Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment
A brand-new entry in the Hyrule Warriors saga is coming this winter. Titled Age of Imprisonment, this action-heavy prequel takes place before Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, offering:
- Playable characters like Princess Zelda and King Rauru
- Epic large-scale battles against Ganondorf’s ancient army
- Cutscenes expanding the timeline of the original Calamity
While the game uses the Warriors gameplay format, it’s steeped in lore that longtime Zelda fans will appreciate—particularly those eager to understand the events that shaped the modern Hyrule timeline.
Zelda Notes: A New Way to Explore and Connect
The Switch 2 doesn’t just upgrade gameplay—it changes how you engage with the Zelda universe. Nintendo is introducing Zelda Notes, an integrated feature in the Switch app that connects players more deeply to the world and each other.
Zelda Notes Includes:
- Voice Memories: Narrated lore snippets from Link, Zelda, and others as you visit iconic locations
- Dynamic Hints: Context-aware help for shrine puzzles, boss fights, and hidden Koroks
- Blueprint Sharing: Upload Ultrahand creations as QR codes, downloadable by friends
- Progress Metrics: Track quests, unlocks, and achievements across all Zelda titles
The feature is built to enhance immersion without forcing players to exit the experience for YouTube tutorials or wikis.
A Cinematic Future: Zelda Goes Hollywood
Outside the console, Zelda is expanding into other media. Nintendo has confirmed that a live-action Zelda movie is in development, produced in collaboration with Sony Pictures and directed by Wes Ball (The Maze Runner, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes). It’s slated for March 2027, and sources suggest it may be the first in a planned trilogy.
While casting hasn’t been announced, industry speculation includes top-tier actors and visual effects talent, with production expected to begin in early 2026. The film aims to bring the mythic qualities of Hyrule to a global cinematic audience—potentially mirroring the success of 2023’s Super Mario Bros. Movie.
Collectibles and Community Engagement
- New amiibo figures are on the way, based on Tears of the Kingdom characters like Tulin, Sidon, Riju, and Yunobo. These will unlock exclusive gear and cosmetic items.
- Nintendo San Francisco Store now offers exclusive Zelda apparel, figurines, and artwork tied to the Switch 2 celebration.
- The Nintendo Music app recently added the full Legend of Zelda (NES) soundtrack, with more albums from the series expected later this year.
June 2025: The Summer of Zelda Begins
The excitement continues beyond launch day. Nintendo will be showcasing more Zelda content at the Future Games Show Summer Showcase on June 7, 2025, hosted by voice actors Laura Bailey and Matthew Mercer. Fans are hopeful for:
- A tease of the next mainline Zelda installment
- Additional Switch 2-exclusive mechanics
- Surprise announcements or remastered ports
With all these developments converging, The Legend of Zelda is not just being preserved—it’s being boldly reimagined. For longtime fans and new players alike, the Switch 2 is shaping up to be the ultimate gateway into Hyrule.
Zelda Games in Order
The Legend of Zelda series has captured the hearts of gamers for decades with its immersive worlds and captivating stories. If you’re new to the franchise or looking to replay these classic adventures, you might wonder about the best order to experience them. You can play Zelda games in either release order starting with the original 1986 title or follow the official timeline that begins with Skyward Sword, which sets up the entire saga’s mythology.
Many fans recommend starting with Ocarina of Time, as it established the 3D formula that later games would build upon. Others suggest beginning with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom for their modern gameplay mechanics. The beauty of the Zelda series is that most games stand on their own while still connecting to the larger narrative.
The series spans multiple consoles from the NES to the Nintendo Switch, with each entry adding new dimensions to Link’s adventures. Whether you’re following Link’s journey chronologically through Hyrule’s history or experiencing the games as they were released, each title offers unique puzzles, dungeons, and memorable characters.
Here’s a comprehensive list of The Legend of Zelda games in release order, including both mainline titles and notable remakes and spin-offs. This list focuses on official releases by Nintendo, primarily in the main series:
Mainline Zelda Games (By Release Date)
| # | Title | Platform | Release Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Legend of Zelda | NES | 1986 |
| 2 | Zelda II: The Adventure of Link | NES | 1987 |
| 3 | The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past | SNES | 1991 |
| 4 | The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening | Game Boy | 1993 |
| 5 | The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time | N64 | 1998 |
| 6 | The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask | N64 | 2000 |
| 7 | The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages | Game Boy Color | 2001 |
| 8 | The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons | Game Boy Color | 2001 |
| 9 | The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords | GBA | 2002 |
| 10 | The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker | GameCube | 2002 |
| 11 | The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures | GameCube | 2004 |
| 12 | The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap | GBA | 2004 |
| 13 | The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess | GameCube, Wii | 2006 |
| 14 | The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass | DS | 2007 |
| 15 | The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks | DS | 2009 |
| 16 | The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword | Wii | 2011 |
| 17 | The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds | 3DS | 2013 |
| 18 | The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes | 3DS | 2015 |
| 19 | The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild | Wii U, Switch | 2017 |
| 20 | The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom | Switch | 2023 |
Notable Remakes & Enhanced Editions
| Title | Original | Platform | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Link’s Awakening DX | Link’s Awakening | Game Boy Color | 1998 |
| Ocarina of Time 3D | Ocarina of Time | 3DS | 2011 |
| The Wind Waker HD | The Wind Waker | Wii U | 2013 |
| Majora’s Mask 3D | Majora’s Mask | 3DS | 2015 |
| Twilight Princess HD | Twilight Princess | Wii U | 2016 |
| Skyward Sword HD | Skyward Sword | Switch | 2021 |
| Link’s Awakening (Remake) | Link’s Awakening | Switch | 2019 |
Notable Spin-offs
| Title | Type | Platform | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hyrule Warriors | Musou-style Action | Wii U | 2014 |
| Cadence of Hyrule | Rhythm/Roguelike | Switch | 2019 |
| Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity | Prequel to BotW | Switch | 2020 |
Here’s The Legend of Zelda Timeline Order, based on the official chronology outlined in Nintendo’s Hyrule Historia and expanded with newer releases like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
The Unified Timeline (Before the Timeline Split)
| Order | Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Skyward Sword | Origin story of Link, Zelda, and the Master Sword. |
| 2 | The Minish Cap | Introduces Vaati and the Four Sword. |
| 3 | Four Swords | Focuses on Vaati and multiplayer gameplay. |
| 4 | Ocarina of Time | The pivotal game that splits the timeline. |
The Timeline Splits into Three Paths After Ocarina of Time
Timeline A: The Hero is Defeated
| Order | Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5A | A Link to the Past | Ganon is sealed in the Dark World. |
| 6A | Oracle of Ages & Seasons | Twinrova attempts to resurrect Ganon. |
| 7A | Link’s Awakening | Link is lost at sea post-Oracle. |
| 8A | A Link Between Worlds | Set centuries after ALttP. |
| 9A | Tri Force Heroes | Direct sequel to ALBW, multiplayer focused. |
| 10A | The Legend of Zelda | Original NES game. |
| 11A | The Adventure of Link | Sequel to the original, side-scrolling style. |
Timeline B: The Hero is Victorious – Child Timeline
| Order | Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5B | Majora’s Mask | Link searches for Navi in a parallel world. |
| 6B | Twilight Princess | Hyrule is threatened by the Twilight Realm. |
| 7B | Four Swords Adventures | Vaati and Shadow Link return. |
Timeline C: The Hero is Victorious – Adult Timeline
| Order | Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 5C | The Wind Waker | Hyrule is flooded after Ganon’s return. |
| 6C | Phantom Hourglass | Direct sequel to Wind Waker. |
| 7C | Spirit Tracks | Set in a new land founded by Tetra’s descendants. |
Era of Calamity – Timeline Placement Unclear or Unified?
These newer entries are considered far in the future, potentially after all three timelines have converged or after they’ve become irrelevant due to the passage of time.
| Order | Game | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ? | Breath of the Wild | Post-apocalyptic Hyrule; remnants of many past civilizations. |
| ? | Tears of the Kingdom | Direct sequel to BotW with deeper lore and Zonai focus. |
✅ Summary Chart
| Timeline | Games |
|---|---|
| Unified | Skyward Sword → Minish Cap → Four Swords → Ocarina of Time |
| Defeated | ALttP → Oracles → Link’s Awakening → ALBW → Tri Force Heroes → Zelda 1 → Zelda 2 |
| Child | Majora’s Mask → Twilight Princess → Four Swords Adventures |
| Adult | Wind Waker → Phantom Hourglass → Spirit Tracks |
| Unknown/Post-Timeline | Breath of the Wild → Tears of the Kingdom |
Key Takeaways
- Zelda games can be played in release order starting with the 1986 original or in timeline order beginning with Skyward Sword.
- Most Zelda games tell self-contained stories that don’t require previous knowledge of the series.
- The franchise has evolved significantly from 2D top-down adventures to expansive 3D open worlds like Breath of the Wild.
Evolution of The Legend of Zelda Series
The Legend of Zelda has transformed dramatically since its debut in 1986, evolving from simple 2D adventures to complex 3D worlds while maintaining its core elements of exploration, puzzle-solving, and heroic quests.
Origins and the Early Years
The series began in 1986 when Nintendo released the first Legend of Zelda game for the Nintendo Entertainment System. Created by Shigeru Miyamoto, this groundbreaking title introduced players to Link, Princess Zelda, and the land of Hyrule.
The original game featured an open-world design that was revolutionary for its time. Players could explore in any direction they chose, discovering secrets and dungeons throughout Hyrule.
In 1988, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link took a different approach with side-scrolling sections and RPG elements. Though considered an outlier in the series, it introduced important mechanics that would appear in later games.
A Link to the Past (1992) returned to the top-down perspective and refined the formula. It introduced the dual-world concept and established many storytelling elements that became staples of the series.
Transition to 3D Gaming
Ocarina of Time (1998) marked a revolutionary moment when the series leaped into three dimensions on the Nintendo 64. This game set standards for 3D adventure games with its targeting system, immersive world, and time-travel narrative.
The game’s combat system allowed Link to lock onto enemies, making fights more strategic and fluid. Its day/night cycle and musical puzzle elements added depth to the gameplay experience.
Majora’s Mask followed in 2000, using the same engine but introducing a unique three-day cycle and mask transformation mechanics. Its darker tone and time management puzzles showcased the series’ willingness to experiment.
Wind Waker (2003) surprised fans with its cel-shaded “Toon Link” art style. Despite initial controversy, the game’s expressive characters and vast ocean exploration won over many players.
Handheld Adventures and Innovations
Link’s Awakening (1993) brought the Zelda experience to the Game Boy, proving the series could work in a portable format. Its dream-like setting and touching story made it a standout title.
The Oracle games (Ages and Seasons) released simultaneously in 2001, introduced an innovative linked game system. When completed, players could use codes to connect the two adventures.
The Minish Cap (2004) for Game Boy Advance featured a unique shrinking mechanic that let Link explore tiny worlds. Its charming visuals and clever puzzles made excellent use of the portable hardware.
The Nintendo DS saw experimentation with touch controls in Phantom Hourglass (2007) and Spirit Tracks (2009). These games used the touchscreen for movement, combat, and puzzle-solving in innovative ways.
Modern Era and Open-World Discovery
Skyward Sword (2011) used motion controls to create immersive swordplay. The game served as an origin story for the entire series, explaining the recurring cycle of Link, Zelda, and Ganon.
A major transformation came with Breath of the Wild (2017) for Nintendo Switch. This title reinvented the series with a truly open world, physics-based puzzles, and survival elements.
Players could approach challenges in countless ways, climb nearly any surface, and experiment with the game’s chemistry system. The game’s weapon durability and cooking mechanics added strategic layers.
Tears of the Kingdom (2023) built upon this foundation, adding vertical exploration with sky islands and underground areas. New abilities like Ultrahand let players build structures and vehicles, expanding creative possibilities even further.
Key Elements of Zelda Games
The Legend of Zelda series has maintained certain core elements throughout its long history that define the franchise and contribute to its lasting appeal. These elements create the unique Zelda experience fans have come to love.
Mythology and The Kingdom of Hyrule
The rich mythology of the Zelda universe centers around the Kingdom of Hyrule, a land created by three golden goddesses—Din, Nayru, and Farore. At the heart of this mythology is the Triforce, a sacred relic that grants wishes to those who touch it. It consists of three triangles representing Power, Wisdom, and Courage.
Hyrule’s history spans thousands of years across multiple timelines, featuring recurring conflicts between good and evil. This mythology expands with each game, introducing realms like Lorule in “A Link Between Worlds,” the Twilight Realm in “Twilight Princess,” and the Dark World in “A Link to the Past.”
The series also incorporates legendary figures like the Seven Sages who protect the realm and help seal away evil. Religious and mystical symbols appear frequently, adding depth to the world’s lore.
Recurring Characters and Items
Link, the primary protagonist, appears in every main Zelda game—typically as a new incarnation bearing the Spirit of the Hero. Princess Zelda represents wisdom and royal authority, often playing crucial roles beyond the traditional damsel in distress.
Ganon (or Ganondorf in his human form) serves as the primary antagonist in most games, embodying the Triforce of Power. Other villains like Vaati have appeared in games such as “Four Swords Adventures.”
The Master Sword—the blade of evil’s bane—appears in most titles as Link’s ultimate weapon. Items like the Hookshot, Bow and Arrow, and Bombs have become signature tools for solving puzzles and defeating enemies.
Link’s trusty steed Epona first appeared in “Ocarina of Time” and returned in several later games. The Ocarina itself became an iconic item after featuring prominently in several adventures.
Gameplay Mechanics and Design
Exploration forms the backbone of Zelda gameplay. Players traverse vast overworlds filled with secrets, from Hyrule Field to the Great Sea in “Wind Waker.”
Dungeons serve as self-contained puzzle boxes with unique themes, items, and bosses. Each typically rewards Link with heart containers to increase health and special items needed for progression.
Puzzle-solving is integral to advancement, requiring players to use specific items and environmental awareness. Combat evolved from simple sword swinging to complex systems involving timing, positioning, and strategy.
The item acquisition system is particularly distinctive—Link typically finds a new tool in each dungeon that’s crucial for defeating that dungeon’s boss and opens new exploration possibilities in the overworld.
Distinctive Features and Expanding Universes
The Zelda series balances tradition with innovation. “Breath of the Wild” revolutionized the formula with an open-world approach, while “Majora’s Mask” introduced a three-day time cycle.
Musical elements play significant roles, from the ocarina songs in “Ocarina of Time” to conducting in “Wind Waker.” Many games feature memorable soundtracks that enhance the adventure.
The art style has varied dramatically—from the cel-shaded “Wind Waker” to the more realistic “Twilight Princess”—while maintaining recognizable visual elements.
Side quests and mini-games provide depth beyond the main story. Trading sequences, heart piece collections, and character interactions create a more immersive world filled with memorable moments and rewards for thorough exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Legend of Zelda series has a complex timeline and release history. Fans often have questions about game order, availability, and how to approach the series as newcomers.
What is the chronological order of The Legend of Zelda series?
The Legend of Zelda timeline is notably complex. According to official Nintendo lore, the timeline splits into three branches after Ocarina of Time.
The first branch, the “Defeat Timeline,” includes games like A Link to the Past, Oracle games, Link’s Awakening, A Link Between Worlds, and The Legend of Zelda.
The “Child Timeline” features Majora’s Mask, Twilight Princess, and Four Swords Adventures. The “Adult Timeline” contains Wind Waker, Phantom Hourglass, and Spirit Tracks.
Games like Skyward Sword take place at the very beginning of the timeline, while Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom are set at the far end.
How are the Zelda games ranked by their release dates?
The Legend of Zelda was first released in 1986 for the NES. The Adventure of Link followed in 1987, then A Link to the Past (1991) for SNES.
Link’s Awakening came to Game Boy in 1993, followed by Ocarina of Time (1998) and Majora’s Mask (2000) for Nintendo 64.
The 2000s saw releases like Wind Waker (2002), Twilight Princess (2006), and Skyward Sword (2011). Breath of the Wild launched alongside the Nintendo Switch in 2017.
The most recent mainline game is Tears of the Kingdom (2023), serving as a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild.
Can you list all Zelda games along with their respective gaming consoles?
NES: The Legend of Zelda, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
SNES: A Link to the Past
Game Boy/Game Boy Color: Link’s Awakening, Oracle of Ages, Oracle of Seasons
Nintendo 64: Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask
Game Boy Advance: The Minish Cap, Four Swords
GameCube: Wind Waker, Four Swords Adventures, Twilight Princess
Nintendo DS: Phantom Hourglass, Spirit Tracks
Wii: Twilight Princess, Skyward Sword
Nintendo 3DS: Ocarina of Time 3D, Majora’s Mask 3D, A Link Between Worlds, Tri Force Heroes
Wii U: Wind Waker HD, Twilight Princess HD, Breath of the Wild
Nintendo Switch: Breath of the Wild, Link’s Awakening remake, Skyward Sword HD, Tears of the Kingdom
Which Zelda titles are available to play on the Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch offers several Zelda games for players to enjoy. Breath of the Wild was a launch title for the console in 2017.
The Link’s Awakening remake released in 2019, bringing the Game Boy classic to life with a new art style. Skyward Sword HD arrived in 2021 with improved controls.
Tears of the Kingdom launched in 2023 as a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild. The Nintendo Switch Online service also provides access to NES and SNES Zelda titles.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity, while not a mainline title, offers a story set 100 years before Breath of the Wild.
In what sequence should a newcomer play the Zelda series to best understand the storyline?
Newcomers to the series might consider starting with Breath of the Wild. It’s accessible to beginners while still capturing the essence of Zelda adventures.
For those interested in the timeline, Skyward Sword makes a good starting point as it tells the origin story. From there, Ocarina of Time is crucial as it establishes the timeline split.
Playing games in release order is another valid approach. This allows players to experience how the series evolved over time.
Most Zelda games work as standalone experiences. While they share common elements, each tells its own story that can be enjoyed independently.
What are the names of all the games included in The Legend of Zelda franchise?
The mainline games include: The Legend of Zelda, The Adventure of Link, A Link to the Past, Link’s Awakening, Ocarina of Time, and Majora’s Mask.
The series continues with Oracle of Ages, Oracle of Seasons, Four Swords, The Wind Waker, Four Swords Adventures, The Minish Cap, and Twilight Princess.
Later titles include Phantom Hourglass, Spirit Tracks, Skyward Sword, A Link Between Worlds, Tri Force Heroes, Breath of the Wild, and Tears of the Kingdom.
Remakes and remasters include Ocarina of Time 3D, Majora’s Mask 3D, Wind Waker HD, Twilight Princess HD, Link’s Awakening (Switch), and Skyward Sword HD.
