How long is The Legend of Zelda series?

How Long is The Legend of Zelda Series?

The Legend of Zelda series has been a beloved and iconic franchise in the world of gaming for decades, with a rich history of innovative gameplay, memorable characters, and epic storytelling. But have you ever wondered how long the series has been around, and how many games are there to explore? In this article, we’ll delve into the history of the Legend of Zelda series, from its humble beginnings to the latest releases, and answer the question: How long is The Legend of Zelda series?

Main Series Games

As of the release of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the main series consists of 19 games, with each game building upon the lore and gameplay mechanics of its predecessors. Here is a list of the main series games in chronological order:

Spin-off Games

In addition to the main series games, there are several spin-off games that are part of the Legend of Zelda franchise. These games often offer alternative gameplay mechanics, storylines, or settings, but are still considered part of the overall Zelda canon. Some notable spin-off games include:

• Hyrule Warriors (2014) – a hack-and-slash game set in the Zelda universe
• Hydlide (1992) – a classic action-RPG that is no longer part of the main series
• Tri Force Heroes (2015) – a multiplayer-focused game that builds upon the gameplay of A Link Between Worlds

Games Not Part of the Main Series

There are a few games that are part of the Legend of Zelda franchise but are not considered part of the main series. These games may offer alternative gameplay mechanics or settings, but are not part of the overall story arc of the series. Some examples include:

• The Legend of Zelda: Collector’s Edition (2003) – a remake of the original Legend of Zelda game
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D (2011) – a 3D remake of Ocarina of Time
• The Legend of Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon (1993) – a CD-i game that is no longer part of the main series

Timeline and Chronology

One of the most significant aspects of the Legend of Zelda series is its complex and intricate timeline. The games are not necessarily linear, and the story arcs often overlap or intersect in interesting ways. Here is a rough outline of the timeline:

• The Era of the Hero of Time (Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask, Oracle of Seasons, Oracle of Ages)
• The Era of the Four Swords (Four Swords, The Minish Cap, Tri Force Heroes)
• The Era of the Breath of the Wild (Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom)

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Legend of Zelda series has a rich and complex history that spans over three decades, with 19 main series games and numerous spin-offs and spin-off games. The series has evolved over the years, offering a wide range of gameplay mechanics, storylines, and settings. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of the series or a new player, there’s something for everyone in the Legend of Zelda franchise. So grab your sword, shield, and courage, and join the adventure!