The Great Debate: Is Link’s Last Name Mario?
The world of Nintendo is filled with beloved characters, and few are as iconic as Link, the hero of the Legend of Zelda series. With a rich history spanning decades, Link has become synonymous with bravery, wit, and heroism. But amidst the excitement and adventure, a question has been brewing: is Link’s last name Mario? In this article, we’ll delve into the facts, fiction, and folklore surrounding Link’s surname and explore the answer to this burning question.
Direct Answer: No, Link’s Last Name is Not Mario
According to Shigeru Miyamoto, the creator of the Zelda series, Link’s full name is simply Link Link. There is no last name, and certainly no connection to the Mario franchise. Miyamoto has clarified that Link is a name, not a surname, and has been used consistently throughout the series.
The Infamous 1993 Super Mario Bros. Movie
In 1993, a live-action Super Mario Bros. movie was released, featuring Bob Hoskins as Mario and John Leguizamo as Luigi. In one scene, a character is shown wearing a shirt with the name "Link" on it, leading some to speculate that Link was a part of the Mario universe. However, this scene has been largely discredited as a mistake, and Miyamoto has never confirmed any connection between the two franchises.
Zelda’s Real Name
In a surprising twist, Zelda’s full name is never explicitly mentioned in the series. However, some fans have speculated that she may share a connection to the royal family of Hyrule, potentially making her a princess. This would mean that Link, as her partner and hero, would not have a surname, but rather be a part of the royal family.
Link’s Lack of Surname
Throughout the series, Link has never been given a surname. His name is simply Link, and he has been portrayed as a wandering hero with no fixed identity. This lack of surname has led some to speculate that Link’s true identity is unknown, and that he may be a mythical or legendary figure.
BOTW: A New Era for Link
In 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (BOTW) was released, introducing a new era for Link and the Zelda series. In BOTW, Link’s character is reimagined as a silent protagonist, with no spoken lines or voiced dialogue. This change has led some to question the nature of Link’s character, and whether his lack of voice is a deliberate choice or simply a product of the game’s narrative.
In Conclusion
While the debate over Link’s last name has been ongoing for years, the truth is clear: Link’s last name is not Mario. Miyamoto has confirmed that Link’s full name is simply Link Link, and there is no connection between the two franchises. As the hero of the Legend of Zelda series, Link’s identity is deeply rooted in the world of Hyrule, and his lack of surname is a testament to his status as a mythical figure.
Key Takeaways:
• Link’s full name is Link Link, with no surname or last name.
• There is no connection between the Legend of Zelda and Super Mario Bros. franchises.
• Zelda’s full name is never explicitly mentioned in the series.
• Link’s lack of surname is a deliberate choice, reflecting his status as a mythical hero.
• The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild reimagines Link as a silent protagonist, further emphasizing his enigmatic nature.
By exploring the facts, fiction, and folklore surrounding Link’s surname, we’ve uncovered the truth: Link’s last name is not Mario. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or a newcomer to the world of Hyrule, the Legend of Zelda is a rich and wondrous place, full of mystery and adventure. And at its heart, lies the hero Link, forever etched in our imaginations as a symbol of bravery, wit, and heroism.