The Legend of Zelda is a critically regarded action-adventure series with a long history in the gaming industry.
It is regarded one of Nintendo’s most iconic franchises, with 22 games totaling 19 primary titles and three remakes.
With the release of critically acclaimed games such as Breath of the Wild, Link’s Awakening remake, and Tears of the Kingdom in recent years, the series has acquired newfound appeal.
While there is no definite answer, there are recommended strategies to play the games in a precise order.
The Legend of Zelda Games in Chronological Order
The chronological order of Zelda games is crucial to the overall timeframe. Players can explore the vast narrative and interrelated stories that span numerous eras and timelines by following the chronological order.
Exploring the series in the intended order improves the narrative experience and allows players to see Hyrule evolve through time.
Understanding the history gives depth and immersion to The Legend of Zelda’s renowned universe, from the origin story in Skyward Sword to the enigmatic events in Breath of the Wild.
To help you navigate the extensive Zelda series, here is the chronological order of the games:
Link’s Early History:
- Skyward Sword
- Four Swords
- The Minish Cap
Link’s Child Timeline:
- Twilight Princess
- Majora’s Mask
- Four Swords Adventures
Link’s Adult Timeline:
- The Wind Waker
- Spirit Tracks
- Phantom Hourglass
Link’s Fallen Hero Timeline:
- The Adventure of Link
- A Link to the Past
- The Legend of Zelda
- Link’s Awakening
- A Link Between Worlds
- Tri Force Heroes
- Oracle of Seasons
- Oracle of Ages
Link’s Era of Calamity:
- Breath of the Wild
- Age of Calamity
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023 release)
The Legend of Zelda Games in Release Order
If you prefer playing the games in the order they were released, here is the release order of the Zelda games:
- The Legend of Zelda (1986)
- Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987)
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991)
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (1993)
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998)
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (2000)
- The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages (2001)
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (2002)
- The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures (2004)
- The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap (2004)
- The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (2006)
- The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass (2007)
- The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks (2009)
- The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011)
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds (2013)
- The Legend of Zelda: Triforce Heroes (2015)
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (sometimes known as Breath of the Wild 2) (2023)
Will Breath of the Wild have a sequel?
In terms of Breath of the Wild and its impending successor, it is recommended to play The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom as the series’ final game.
Despite the lack of a definite chronology placement, it acts as a summation of all the other courses in the series.
The sequel, which was originally scheduled for E3 2021 but was postponed until 2023, is set to expand on the storyline and send players on a new trip.
Conclusion
Exploring The Legend of Zelda games in the correct order is an intriguing adventure that expands our comprehension of the series’ complicated timeline.
Whether you follow the chronological or release sequence, each method provides a unique viewpoint on the ever-changing world of Hyrule.
From the beginnings to the most recent epic adventures, playing the games in chronological order helps us to understand the narrative links, recurring themes, and enduring impact of this popular franchise.
So take your Master Sword, put on your green tunic, and prepare to go on an incredible journey through time with The Legend of Zelda games.
May your journey be marked by courageous victories and amazing memories.