Zelda for Newbies: The best Zelda Video games to start with

Let’s be honest, Zelda is more popular now thanks to the new release of Tears of the Kingdom. But the truth is that it has been more than 30 years in our lives, thanks to Shigeru Miyamoto and Takashi Tezuka.

Even though many people keep calling Link “Zelda” and think there are only 3 or 4 games, real gamers know that The Legend of Zelda games are extensive. There are around 19 mainline games, plus spin-offs and re-releases. So, you will find a total of 45 games out there!

With so many games and a complicated timeline, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to know which games to play first and in what order.

The Legend of Zelda franchise is worth the time spent because it offers a rich, immersive world, memorable characters, challenging gameplay, epic storylines, and a nostalgia factor. Even when you will love all titles, we know that maybe you don’t have the time to play all of them.

That’s why we’ve created this guide on how to start playing Zelda. You have different ways to do it. Whether you’re a fan looking to revisit the series or a newcomer looking to discover it for the first time, this article will give you the info you need to start your journey through the land of Hyrule.

Start playing: the best Zelda games of all time

The Legend of Zelda franchise has been around for over three decades and has produced many memorable games. Choosing the “best” in the series is subjective and depends on personal preferences.

All Zelda games have their charm, so it isn’t easy to choose from 45 titles. That being said, you can play the most acclaimed and beloved entries in the series:

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) for Nintendo 64

It is widely considered a masterpiece. This game introduced many elements that have become staples of the franchise.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017) for Nintendo Switch

It is an open-world game that broke new ground in terms of gameplay, graphics, and storytelling, winning numerous Game of the Year awards.

The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991) for Super Nintendo Entertainment System

This classic set the standard for 2D Zelda games with an epic story and challenging dungeons.

The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask

It is a darker and more experimental game. But it is still highly regarded for its unique time loop mechanics and emotional storytelling.

The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker

It is a controversial entry for its cel-shaded graphics but is praised for its beautiful art style and gameplay mechanics.

Any of these video games would be an excellent starting point for people interested in the series.

The best Zelda games for beginners

Yes, we found some Zelda games for beginners because we know that you could feel overwhelmed by the vast universe created by Miyamoto and Tezuka. Thus, we’ll take you by the hand, guide you through the intricacies of Hyrule, and recommend the best Zelda games for beginners. So you won’t feel like a lost Octorok in a maze.

The Legend Of Zelda (1986) for NES

The first game of Zelda set the standard for adventure games for years to come. You can find this in the monthly subscription of Nintendo Switch Online (by the way, we have gift cards for this in our store). 

The game follows Link’s journey as he embarks on a quest to collect eight pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom, defeat the evil Ganon, and rescue Princess Zelda.

What made The Legend of Zelda so unique was its non-linear approach to gameplay. Instead of following a set path, players were free to explore the vast world of Hyrule, discovering hidden secrets and solving puzzles along the way.

The Legend Of Zelda: Skyward Sword (2011) for Wii

This game takes place at the beginning of everything, telling the story of how the land of Hyrule came to be and the origins of the Triforce. ​​Skyward Sword provides a fascinating backstory and world-building that adds a new depth of understanding to the entire Zelda franchise.

The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time (again)

Ocarina of Time is not only the best Zelda game but also one of the best video games ever. The game follows Link as he travels through time to prevent the evil Ganon or Ganondorf from obtaining the Triforce and taking over Hyrule.

The game’s time-traveling story is one of the most unique and captivating in the Zelda franchise, and its impact on the series is significant, as it splits the timeline and sets the stage for later games.

Each Zelda game has its own fanbase, but this is a must-play for everyone.

The Legend Of Zelda: Breath Of The Wild (again)

Breath of the Wild is a fantastic entry point into the series, especially for new players. It’s maybe the most popular game in the franchise, and it completely reimagines what a Zelda game can be.

Some gamers won’t consider it a great option to start because newcomers could feel intimidated by the game’s massive open world. Also, many people don’t have the time to invest in a 100-hour adventure.

However, Breath of the Wild will be an incredible and unforgettable experience for a beginner, and after finishing it, they will want more.

Breath of the Wild rewards curiosity and experimentation. The game’s puzzles and dungeons are brilliantly designed, challenging players to think outside the box.

The cutest Zelda video games

The Zelda franchise is known for its captivating journeys. But it’s not all about the action and adventure. There are also some adorable and charming games in the series that you need to try.

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019) for Nintendo Switch

Don’t you agree that this is one of the cutest games on the Nintendo Store? It evokes feelings of warmth, joy, and happiness. This charming game features a colorful, whimsical world full of quirky characters and delightful surprises. So, it’s a great entry point for newcomers to the series.

The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap (2004) for Game Boy Advance

You can also play this with the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This game is bursting with personality and features some of the cutest characters in the series. Its unique shrinking mechanic allows you to explore the world from a new perspective. Besides, its colorful graphics will surely put a smile on your face.

The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures (2004) for Nintendo GameCube

It is a great way to introduce younger players to the world of Zelda. It has a charming look and lighthearted gameplay, which make playing with friends and family a blast.

Unlike most Zelda games, Four Swords Adventures is designed for multiplayer, allowing up to four players to work together to defeat enemies, solve puzzles, and progress through the game.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (again)

While not traditionally considered a “cute” game, Breath of the Wild’s stunning visuals and charming characters make it a joy to explore. Also, it has adorable Koroks.

So, try these games if you are in the mood for a lighthearted adventure and want to discover Zelda’s cutest side.

Why you should start playing Zelda games?

The short answer is that you should start playing Zelda video games because it’s a FANTASTIC franchise, and you will love it. The series has a rich history spanning multiple decades, with each game building upon the mythology and lore established in the previous titles. It means that there’s always something new to discover and learn about the world of Hyrule and its inhabitants.

In addition, the Zelda series is known for its innovative gameplay mechanics, which often incorporate unique puzzles and challenges that require creative thinking to overcome. However, perhaps one of the most important reasons for playing Zelda games is the sense of adventure and exploration they evoke.