Does Link have a last name?

Does Link have a last name?

The Legend of Zelda series has been a beloved and iconic franchise for decades, with its protagonist, Link, being one of the most recognizable characters in the world of gaming. But have you ever wondered if Link has a last name? The answer is surprisingly complex and nuanced, with different interpretations and explanations offered by the game’s developers and creators.

No Official Last Name

According to Shigeru Miyamoto

In a 1993 interview, Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of The Legend of Zelda series, revealed that Link’s full name is Link Link, in reference to the Super Mario Bros. movie, where Mario’s last name is also Mario. This joke has been widely circulated among fans and has been considered an official confirmation by many. However, this statement has also been debated and disputed by some, as it was made in a humorous context and might not be taken as an official confirmation.

Alternative Theories and Interpretations

Link as a Symbol

Some fans believe that Link’s lack of a last name is a deliberate design choice, intended to make him a symbolic representation of the hero rather than a specific individual. This interpretation suggests that Link’s identity is not bound to a particular family or lineage, but rather is a universal symbol of courage and bravery.

No Last Name in the Original Game

The First Zelda Game

The first Zelda game, released in 1986, did not include a last name for Link. This could be seen as evidence that the developers never intended to give Link a last name, or that it was simply not a priority at the time.

Last Name in Later Games

Breath of the Wild

In The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, released in 2017, the game’s official guidebook revealed that Link’s full name is Link Hyrule, with Hyrule being a reference to the kingdom he is sworn to protect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the answer to whether Link has a last name is complex and open to interpretation. While Shigeru Miyamoto’s joke about Link’s full name being Link Link has been widely circulated, it has also been disputed and debated by fans. The lack of a last name in the original game and the various interpretations and theories surrounding the topic suggest that Link’s identity is not bound to a particular family or lineage, but rather is a universal symbol of courage and bravery.

Table: Link’s Last Name Debate

Key Points

• Shigeru Miyamoto’s joke about Link’s full name being Link Link has been widely circulated, but has also been disputed and debated.
• The lack of a last name in the original game suggests that it may not have been a priority at the time.
• The official guidebook for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild revealed that Link’s full name is Link Hyrule.
• Link’s identity is not bound to a particular family or lineage, but rather is a universal symbol of courage and bravery.

References

• Shigeru Miyamoto interview (1993)
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild official guidebook
• The Legend of Zelda series (various games)