Where Does the Zelda Timeline Start?
The Legend of Zelda series is renowned for its complex and intricate storyline, spanning thousands of years in the fictional world of Hyrule. The timeline is divided into three main branches, with various games connecting to form a vast and intricate narrative. In this article, we’ll explore the earliest point in the Zelda timeline, tracing the series’ origins back to the beginning.
The Goddesses and the Creation of Hyrule
According to the official Zelda timeline, the series begins with the creation of Hyrule by three goddesses: Din, Nayru, and Farore. These divine beings imbued the land with the Triforce, a powerful artifact consisting of three parts: the Triforce of Power, Wisdom, and Courage. The goddesses also created the first inhabitants of Hyrule, the Sheikah tribe, who were tasked with protecting the land and the Triforce.
The Hero of Time and the First Era
The first hero of Hyrule, known as the Hero of Time, is introduced in The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword. This game takes place at the dawn of time, thousands of years before the events of the mainline Zelda series. The Hero of Time, a young man named Link, is tasked with defeating the evil demon, Demise, who threatens to destroy the world.
The First Three Games
The first three games in the Zelda series – The Legend of Zelda, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, and A Link to the Past – are often referred to as the "Golden Era" of the series. These games are connected by their storylines, characters, and settings, forming a loose continuity that sets the stage for the rest of the series.
The Timeline Divides
The events of Ocarina of Time mark a significant turning point in the Zelda timeline. The game’s ending splits the timeline into three branches: the Child Timeline, the Adult Timeline, and the Downfall Timeline. Each branch has its own unique story and set of events, making the Zelda timeline a complex and branching narrative.
The Child Timeline
The Child Timeline begins with the events of Majora’s Mask, which takes place in the land of Termina. The story follows Link as he tries to prevent the moon from crashing into the earth. This timeline is marked by a sense of urgency and desperation, as the hero is racing against time to save the world.
The Adult Timeline
The Adult Timeline begins with the events of Twilight Princess, which takes place in the land of Hyrule. The story follows Link as he battles to save the kingdom from the evil forces of the Twilight Realm. This timeline is marked by a sense of epic scope and grandeur, as the hero must face off against powerful enemies and overcome incredible challenges.
The Downfall Timeline
The Downfall Timeline begins with the events of A Link to the Past, which takes place in the land of Hyrule. The story follows Link as he tries to defeat the evil Ganon and save the kingdom from destruction. This timeline is marked by a sense of tragedy and loss, as the hero must confront the dark forces of evil and the consequences of his own failure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Zelda timeline begins with the creation of Hyrule by the three goddesses and the heroism of the Hero of Time. The first three games in the series set the stage for the rest of the narrative, while the events of Ocarina of Time split the timeline into three branches. Each branch has its own unique story and set of events, making the Zelda timeline a complex and branching narrative. By understanding the early points in the timeline, fans can gain a deeper appreciation for the series’ rich history and intricate storytelling.
Timeline Summary
Here is a summary of the Zelda timeline:
- The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword – The creation of Hyrule and the Hero of Time
- The Legend of Zelda, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, and A Link to the Past – The first three games in the series
- Ocarina of Time – The game that splits the timeline into three branches
- Majora’s Mask, Twilight Princess, and A Link to the Past – The Child, Adult, and Downfall Timelines
Key Takeaways
- The Zelda timeline begins with the creation of Hyrule by the three goddesses
- The first three games in the series set the stage for the rest of the narrative
- The events of Ocarina of Time split the timeline into three branches
- Each branch has its own unique story and set of events
- The Zelda timeline is a complex and branching narrative
I hope this article helps to clarify the early points in the Zelda timeline and provides a deeper understanding of the series’ rich history and intricate storytelling.