What should be the first Zelda game to play?

What Should Be the First Zelda Game to Play?

The Legend of Zelda series has been a beloved part of many gamers’ childhoods, with its iconic hero Link and epic quests that span multiple games. With over 35 years of history, the series can be overwhelming for new players, especially when deciding which game to start with. In this article, we’ll explore the most suitable first Zelda game for players, considering factors such as gameplay, storyline, and overall experience.

The Chronological Order

Before diving into the game itself, it’s essential to understand the chronological order of the Zelda series. The games are generally divided into three main branches: the Hyrule timeline, the Child timeline, and the Adult timeline. For the sake of simplicity, we’ll focus on the Hyrule timeline, which consists of the following games:

• The Legend of Zelda (1986)
• Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987)
• A Link to the Past (1991)
• Link’s Awakening (1993)
• Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons (2001)
• A Link Between Worlds (2013)
• Breath of the Wild (2017)
• Tears of the Kingdom (2023)

The First Game: The Legend of Zelda

The original The Legend of Zelda, released in 1986, is often considered the best starting point for new players. This 2D action-adventure game introduced the world to Link, the protagonist, and Zelda, the princess. The game features exploration, puzzle-solving, and dungeon-crawling, setting the stage for the series’ signature gameplay.

Gameplay and Storyline

The gameplay in The Legend of Zelda is relatively simple, with Link traversing the overworld, battling enemies, and collecting heart containers to increase his health. The storyline is straightforward, with Ganon kidnapping Zelda and Link needing to rescue her. The game’s scope is relatively small, with fewer dungeons and less complex puzzles than later games.

Why It’s a Good Starting Point

Playing The Legend of Zelda first provides a solid foundation for understanding the series’ core mechanics and tone. The game’s nostalgic value is undeniable, and many fans of the series still look back fondly on their initial experience with the game. Additionally, the simplicity of the gameplay makes it an accessible introduction to the series.

The Consensus

In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda is the recommended first game for new players. While it may not be the most technically impressive game in the series, its historical significance, simplicity, and core gameplay mechanics make it an excellent starting point.

Table: The Zelda Series Timeline

The Verdict

In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda is the ideal first game for new players due to its historical significance, simplicity, and core gameplay mechanics. The game provides a solid foundation for understanding the series’ core mechanics and tone, making it an excellent starting point for players new to the Zelda series.