What Legend of Zelda game should I start with?

What Legend of Zelda Game Should I Start With?

The Legend of Zelda series is one of the most beloved and iconic gaming franchises of all time, with a rich history spanning over three decades. With numerous games to choose from, it can be daunting to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll help you navigate the series and recommend the best starting point for your Zelda journey.

Traditional Zelda or Open-World Adventure?

The Legend of Zelda series is known for its diverse gameplay styles, ranging from traditional 2D side-scrollers to open-world epics. If you’re looking for a more traditional Zelda experience, we recommend starting with The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64, 3DS) or The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (SNES, GBA).

These games are considered classics of the series and offer a more linear experience, with a focus on exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Ocarina of Time, in particular, is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time, and its 3D gameplay revolutionized the action-adventure genre.

On the other hand, if you prefer open-world exploration, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Wii U, Switch) is an excellent starting point. This game introduced a new level of freedom and exploration to the series, allowing players to explore a vast open world and discover its secrets at their own pace.

Chronological Order or Play Order?

The Legend of Zelda series is known for its complex timeline, with multiple branches and parallel universes. However, for new players, it’s not necessary to follow the chronological order of the games. Instead, we recommend playing the games in a more logical order, based on their release date and gameplay style.

Here’s a suggested play order:

1. The Legend of Zelda (NES) – The original game that started it all, this 2D side-scroller sets the stage for the series.
2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (SNES, GBA) – A classic 2D game that introduced many of the series’ iconic elements.
3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (N64, 3DS) – A 3D masterpiece that revolutionized the action-adventure genre.
4. The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (N64, 3DS) – A darker and more mature game that explores the themes of time travel and sacrifice.
5. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (Wii U, Switch) – An open-world epic that takes the series in a new direction.

Play Order vs. Chronological Order: A Comparison

Here’s a table comparing the play order and chronological order of the Legend of Zelda series:

Conclusion

Choosing the right Legend of Zelda game to start with can be a daunting task, but with this guide, you’re well on your way to embarking on an epic adventure. Whether you prefer traditional 2D gameplay or open-world exploration, the Legend of Zelda series has something for everyone. Remember to play the games in a logical order, and don’t be afraid to explore different paths and timelines. Happy gaming!