Navigating the Legend of Zelda timeline is like traversing the intricate labyrinths of Hyrule itself—full of unexpected twists and diverging paths. With its inception in 1986, the Legend of Zelda series has crafted a sprawling universe that has captivated fans for over three decades.
Officially comprising 20 games—with a 20th out this year in the form of “The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom”—the timeline is a complex tapestry of interconnected adventures, time travel, and alternate realities. While the 2011 release of “Hyrule Historia” attempted to formalize this chronology by introducing a branching narrative with three potential outcomes, the storyline remains fluid. The series continues to grow, prompting ongoing debates and interpretations about its convoluted history, leaving fans and newcomers alike wondering where each installment fits into the grand narrative.
Stay with us as we embark on this journey through time, space, and the magical lands of Hyrule, Termina, and beyond. Let the adventure begin!
The Birth of a Legend: The First Games
In 1986, a legend was born when Shigeru Miyamoto and his team at Nintendo released “The Legend of Zelda” for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Little did anyone know, this unassuming cartridge was set to redefine not only the action-adventure genre but also the entire landscape of gaming.
The Original Legend of Zelda: A Precursor
The original “Legend of Zelda” game was nothing short of revolutionary. For the first time, players were thrown into a sprawling world with little direction, encouraging exploration and curiosity. The game employed a top-down perspective, allowing players to roam freely across the fictional kingdom of Hyrule, battling monsters and seeking out the fragments of the Triforce, a magical artifact.
Moreover, the game introduced a save function, allowing players to pick up where they left off—a novel concept at a time when most games demanded completion in a single sitting. This element of continuity would later become a defining trait of the Zelda series and its complex, interconnected timelines.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link – A Darker Tone
The sequel, “Zelda II: The Adventure of Link,” took a somewhat divergent path. Incorporating more RPG elements like experience points and a side-scrolling battle system, the game was met with mixed reviews but nonetheless left a lasting impact. Its darker tone and increased difficulty set the stage for future titles to explore more complex themes, and elements of its gameplay can still be seen in later entries in the series.
The Mechanics of Time Travel
While time travel and alternate dimensions wouldn’t make their debut until later titles like “Ocarina of Time,” the roots can be traced back to the original games. The use of different items to manipulate the environment, such as using a raft to cross rivers or a ladder to climb cliffs, was a precursor to the elaborate mechanics of time manipulation that would later define the series.
In this early period, the creators were laying the groundwork for a universe that would expand in ways gamers couldn’t yet imagine. The first two games were not just an experiment in open-world gameplay and storytelling but also a blueprint for a series that would continually innovate.
How Ocarina of Time Changed Everything
The “Legend of Zelda” series had already made its mark on the gaming world, but it was the 1998 release of “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time” for the Nintendo 64 that solidified its legendary status. This installment didn’t just change the Zelda series; it changed gaming as we know it.
Time Travel Mechanics and Storytelling
“Ocarina of Time” was a groundbreaking addition, chiefly because it incorporated time travel as a key gameplay and storytelling mechanism. Equipped with the magical Ocarina, Link could play melodies that altered time, changing from a young boy to an adult warrior and back again. This innovation added layers of complexity to puzzles and exploration, requiring players to think in four dimensions.
As Link navigated between two distinct timelines, he met characters whose lives unfolded differently depending on his actions. This mechanic was not only a compelling gameplay feature but also a storytelling revelation, enabling a depth of plot and character development rarely seen in video games up to that point.
The Introduction of Z-Targeting
Another groundbreaking feature was the Z-Targeting system, which allowed players to lock onto enemies and objects. This was revolutionary for 3D action-adventure games, solving many issues related to camera angles and combat in a three-dimensional space. The system was so effective that it has been incorporated in numerous other games, even beyond the Zelda series.
A Universe Expands
Before “Ocarina of Time,” the Zelda universe was rich but relatively straightforward. With the introduction of complex timelines, however, the series opened the door for a multifaceted narrative. Fans began to speculate on how the different games were connected, leading to elaborate theories and debates that would only intensify as more titles were released.
Legacy and Influence
The influence of “Ocarina of Time” cannot be overstated. It remains one of the most critically acclaimed games of all time, appearing on numerous ‘best of’ lists even years after its release. It set the standard for 3D action-adventure games and its mechanics, particularly regarding time travel and combat, have influenced countless titles since.
Unpacking the Official Timelines
In a world rich with lore and brimming with mysteries, “The Legend of Zelda” series has long been subject to fan theories and speculative timelines. While some developers might shy away from officially canonizing a series timeline, Nintendo took the plunge in 2011 with the publication of “Hyrule Historia.” This guidebook, a sort of Zelda Bible, endeavored to resolve the timeline debate by officially splitting the series into three separate but interconnected timelines.
The Unified Legend of Zelda Timeline
Before the timeline splits into three divergent paths, there exists a “Unified Timeline,” which lays the groundwork for the rich tapestry of the Zelda universe. Let’s dive in to understand its significance and how it leads into the convoluted world of Zelda timelines.
Skyward Sword (2011)
Before delving into the complexities of Hyrule’s fractured timelines, it’s essential to visit its origin point, as depicted in “Skyward Sword.” This foundational entry introduces the origins of Link, Zelda, and the malevolent force that would eventually become Ganon. Not only does it set the stage for the entire Zelda universe, but it also presents the divine figure of Hylia, who is worshiped and referenced throughout later games, like “Breath of the Wild.” In essence, “Skyward Sword” is the prelude to Hyrule’s intricate tapestry of lore, and it’s critical for understanding the overarching narrative of the series.
The Minish Cap (2004)
In the Unified Timeline, “The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap” serves as one of the earliest stories. It explores the origins of the villain Vaati and introduces the Picori, tiny creatures that play a pivotal role in shaping the land of Hyrule. This game, although not as groundbreaking as others in terms of mechanics, enriches the lore and provides key background information for the series.
Four Swords (2004)
Following “The Minish Cap,” the next installment in this timeline is “Four Swords,” a game that experiments with multiplayer elements. In this story, Link must once again defeat Vaati and rescue Princess Zelda, emphasizing recurring motifs of heroism and the eternal struggle against evil.
Ocarina of Time (1998)
As we’ve previously covered, “Ocarina of Time” is a pivotal installment that significantly impacts the entire series. This game serves as the point of divergence for the three timelines: the Fallen Hero, the Child, and the Adult timelines. Link’s actions in this game, specifically whether he succeeds or fails in defeating Ganon, create different potential futures, splitting the Unified Timeline into three branches.
The Unified Timeline is essential because it provides the background and context for the complex narratives that follow. Its events set the stage for the divergence, making it a foundational piece of the puzzle that is the “Legend of Zelda” series timeline.
The Three Forks: An Introduction
Navigating the complex web of “The Legend of Zelda” timelines can be a daunting task. The lore expands and twists with each new release, but the fork in the road happens at a single pivotal moment in the series: the end of “Ocarina of Time.” This is where the Unified Timeline splits into three distinct branches, each leading to a different version of Hyrule’s future. Understanding these forks is essential for anyone who seeks to fully grasp the expansive lore of this iconic series.
The Concept of Split Timelines
The notion of split timelines was a game-changer for “The Legend of Zelda” franchise. What was once a linear storytelling method became an intricate web of possibilities, allowing developers to explore new facets of Hyrule without being strictly tethered to established canon. This innovative approach not only adds depth to the series but also gives the creators the liberty to take risks and push boundaries.
Why Three Forks?
One might ask, why not just one or two timelines? Why complicate things further with three? Interestingly, the choice to have three Legend of Zelda timelines gives Nintendo the ability to explore multiple genres and themes in a unified framework. Whether it’s the apocalyptic setting in one timeline or a more hopeful journey in another, the three forks offer a way to experience the rich tapestry of “The Legend of Zelda” in diverse ways. Each timeline presents its own unique challenges and story arcs, allowing for a wide range of adventures without causing inconsistencies in the overall lore.
The Fallen Hero Legend of Zelda Timeline
In the vast universe of “The Legend of Zelda,” perhaps no timeline is as bleak or intriguing as the Fallen Hero Timeline. This is a reality in which Link, the perennial hero, fails to defeat Ganondorf in “Ocarina of Time.” The outcome is a Hyrule plunged into darkness, where evil thrives and hope is but a faint glimmer. The Fallen Hero timeline consists of the following games:
A Link to the Past
The starting point for many fans, “A Link to the Past” (1991), was originally released in 1991 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. Despite being one of the earliest games chronologically, it’s one of the darker tales in the series. This game introduced a parallel world, the Dark World, which was a twisted version of Hyrule created by Ganon’s evil magic. The game’s complex narrative and darker tone set the stage for what was to come in this timeline.
Link’s Awakening and Oracle Games
Following the events of “A Link to the Past,” Link finds himself shipwrecked in the foreign land of Koholint in “Link’s Awakening” (1993) (which was later remade for the switch in 2019). This was a departure from the series as it was the first game not set in Hyrule. It carried the dark themes from its predecessor, pushing the boundaries of storytelling in portable gaming.
The Oracle games—”Oracle of Ages” (2001) and “Oracle of Seasons” (2001)—continued in this darker vein. Although they introduced time manipulation and the changing of seasons as game mechanics, the core story again revolved around stopping dark forces from altering the fabric of reality.
A Link Between Worlds
“A Link Between Worlds” (2013) revisits the realm of Hyrule while introducing an alternate dimension called Lorule. This installment continues the tradition of darker themes but also brings in a sense of duality between the two worlds. Lorule serves as a mirrored version of Hyrule, suffering under its own challenges and turmoil.
Tri Force Heroes
“Tri Force Heroes” (2015), although lighter in tone, requires Link to cooperate with two other heroes to overcome puzzles and foes. It pushes the thematic boundaries of the series by leaning into team dynamics, and challenges even the most seasoned players.
The Legend of Zelda and Zelda II Revisited
Strangely enough, this timeline circles back to the original “The Legend of Zelda” (1987) and “Zelda II: The Adventure of Link” (1991). In these games, Ganon is a monstrous boar-like creature rather than the cunning manipulator seen in “Ocarina of Time.” It’s a future where Link and Zelda have to continually fend off evil in its rawest forms, a far cry from the more complicated moral landscapes of other timelines.
The Fallen Hero is Legend of Zelda Timeline that shows a testament to the resilience and enduring hope that even in the darkest of times, heroes can rise. However, it also serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us that failure is a possibility, even for the most iconic of heroes. It’s this tension between despair and hope that makes the Fallen Hero Timeline an essential part of “The Legend of Zelda” lore.
The Child Legend of Zelda Timeline
The Child Legend of Zelda Timeline presents an alternate reality where Link defeats Ganondorf in “Ocarina of Time,” but he is sent back to his original time as a child. This results in a divergent timeline where Ganondorf’s disastrous rule never occurs, but that doesn’t mean Hyrule is free from strife. Here, the stories adopt a more introspective tone, delving into the psychological and emotional states of the characters.
Majora’s Mask: Grief and Growth (2000)
The first entry in this timeline is “Majora’s Mask,” a game that stands apart for its dark, emotional narrative and unique mechanics involving a 3-day time loop. Link finds himself in the land of Termina, a world doomed to be crushed by a falling moon. The game deals with themes of grief, loss, and acceptance, as Link encounters various characters struggling with their own issues. This game serves as an important emotional journey for Link, helping him process the experiences he had in “Ocarina of Time.”
Twilight Princess: A Dark Successor (2006)
Continuing the somber mood, “Twilight Princess” introduces a mature, gritty atmosphere to the series. The story revolves around the invasion of Hyrule by the Twilight Realm, which transforms the land into a shadowy, dangerous place. Despite its darker tones, it also explores the redeeming qualities of its characters, like Midna, the initially mysterious guide who helps Link navigate the Twilight Realm. The game serves as a natural progression from “Majora’s Mask,” maintaining a consistent theme of courage against overwhelming darkness.
Four Swords Adventures: The Final Confrontation (2004)
In this timeline, “Four Swords Adventures” concludes the battle against dark forces in a more traditional, action-oriented gameplay format. This entry is unique in its cooperative gameplay, requiring players to work together to solve puzzles and defeat enemies. Although less emotionally complex than its predecessors, it marks the culmination of the dark forces that have plagued Hyrule throughout this timeline.
The Child Timeline allows us to see how choices and consequences play out in an alternate reality, contrasting vividly with the grim Fallen Hero Timeline. It delves deep into the emotional and psychological nuances of its characters, making it a memorable journey that adds rich layers to “The Legend of Zelda” canon.
The Adult Legend of Zelda Timeline
The Adult Timeline emerges from the reality in which Link has defeated Ganon in “Ocarina of Time” and left, allowing Hyrule to continue on without him. This timeline offers a canvas for games that revolve around the concept of Hyrule’s own growth, evolution, and decay, and it creatively employs water-based mechanics, adding a fresh layer of complexity and beauty to the series.
The Great Flood and The Wind Waker (2002)
After the departure of the Hero of Time, Ganon eventually breaks free and returns to threaten Hyrule once more. Unable to stop him, the Gods flood the kingdom, sealing it underwater and leading to the era known as “The Wind Waker.” Here, you navigate through a vast ocean, seeking to assemble the Triforce and defeat the resurrected Ganon. This game revolutionized the Zelda series with its cel-shaded graphics and innovative gameplay, and its themes of change and continuity echo the evolving landscape of Hyrule itself.
Phantom Hourglass: A New Voyage (2007)
Continuing from where “The Wind Waker” left off, “Phantom Hourglass” follows Link on a new adventure in search of a lost friend. This time, the action takes place both on the high seas and in a mysterious temple that Link must revisit multiple times. The gameplay incorporates unique touch-screen controls, offering a different but equally engaging experience. It continues to explore the idea that even in a changed world, the battle between good and evil remains constant.
Spirit Tracks: New Hyrule, New Rules (2009)
Set a century after “Phantom Hourglass,” “Spirit Tracks” introduces us to a new kingdom founded by the original Link and Zelda from the Adult Timeline. Known as New Hyrule, this land faces a new threat that can only be thwarted by its railway system, protected by the so-called ‘Spirit Tracks.’ The game presents an interesting twist on the familiar Zelda formula, featuring train travel and tower defense elements, and it ties up the themes of a constantly evolving world and the timeless nature of heroism.
The Adult Timeline serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Hyrule and its denizens. Through various gameplay innovations and compelling storylines, this timeline represents both continuity and change, adding another complex layer to the already intricate tapestry that is “The Legend of Zelda.”
The Era of Calamity and Beyond Timeline
In the landscape of The Legend of Zelda’s intricate timelines, “Breath of the Wild” story emerges as a compelling enigma. This game situates itself in an ambiguous “distant past,” a timeframe that predates established lore by more than 10,000 years. Interestingly, the presence of Hyrule, as opposed to New Hyrule, nudges it away from fitting into the Adult Timeline. It features a world layout that echoes prior games, barring the possibility of a Triforce wish restoring the sunken Hyrule.
But there’s more; the game is abundant in references to Hylia, from the 13 goddess statues scattered across Hyrule to the Hylia-devoted monks in the game’s numerous shrines. These elements create a tangible link back to “Skyward Sword,” yet the state—or even existence—of the Triforce is conspicuously absent. This omission only thickens the fog of uncertainty about its placement in either the Fallen Hero or Child timelines.
Tantalizing Glimpses in Tears of the Kingdom
As the direct sequel to “Breath of the Wild,” “Tears of the Kingdom” is poised to inherit its predecessor’s timeline enigma. Though details are sparse, the game is set to continue 10,000 years after whichever timeline its predecessor aligns with—further extending the timeline ambiguities.
Clues in the Cycle of Ganon’s Resurrections
Both “Breath of the Wild” and “Tears of the Kingdom” hint at an enduring cycle where Ganon is perpetually vanquished and resurrected. This element, touched upon in “Creating a Champion,” aligns thematically more closely with the Fallen Hero timeline. Here, the narrative arc of sealing away Ganon, a recurring event in the Fallen Hero timeline, provides a clue, albeit not a definitive one.
Age of Calamity: A Time-Travel Conundrum
“Age of Calamity” compounds the timeline complexities by backtracking to events leading to “Breath of the Wild,” yet its time-travel elements provoke debates on whether it acts as a straightforward prequel or spawns an alternate timeline.
The Era of Calamity stands as a monument to the Zelda franchise’s willingness to reinvent itself while respecting its roots. It represents a storytelling feat, tying in a rich tapestry of lore with innovative gameplay that both challenges and rewards the players.
Link and Zelda Through the Ages
The story of The Legend of Zelda is not just the tale of a kingdom, but also the epic journey of its two most iconic characters: Link, the courageous hero, and Zelda, the wise and powerful princess. Both characters have undergone tremendous evolution throughout the series, reflecting not just advances in gaming technology but also deeper, more nuanced storytelling.
Character Evolution Across Games
In the early Zelda games, both Link and Zelda were fairly straightforward archetypes—the brave knight and the damsel in distress. However, with each subsequent installment, these characters have grown more complex.
Link’s transition from a 2D sprite in the original game to a fully-realized 3D character in “Ocarina of Time” was revolutionary, setting a new standard for character design in video games. Similarly, Zelda has evolved from being a mere quest objective to becoming a playable character in some titles, like “Spirit Tracks” and “Hyrule Warriors.”
The Relationship Between Link and Zelda
Although both characters often share the screen, their relationship varies significantly across different games and timelines. In the Fallen Hero Timeline, Zelda is often a distant figure, while in the Child Timeline, their relationship is more intimate, reflecting the youthful innocence of both characters.
In “Skyward Sword,” we see a deep, almost romantic connection between the two, which is a far cry from their relationship in the original games. This dynamic adds another layer to both characters, making their shared journey more emotionally resonant.
Community Theories and Speculations
Given the complex nature of the series’ timelines, fans have long speculated about the true nature of Link and Zelda’s relationship. Are they the same souls reincarnated through time, or different individuals who share a cosmic destiny? Games like “Breath of the Wild” have only fueled these debates, with its open-world freedom allowing for multiple interpretations of the characters and their relationships.
The evolution of Link and Zelda over the years speaks volumes about the series’ growth. What began as a straightforward adventure game has blossomed into an epic saga, where the characters are as beloved and complex as the world they inhabit.
Conclusion: The Ever-Expanding Universe of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda isn’t just a game series; it’s a dynamic narrative tapestry that has evolved from pixelated quests to open-world marvels like “Breath of the Wild.” Its intricate timelines and memorable characters, especially Link and Zelda, offer both nostalgia and new experiences with each installment.
What to Expect in the Future
With forthcoming releases like “Tears of the Kingdom,” we can expect the series to continue pushing gaming boundaries. Its complex timelines and deeply rooted fan theories make each journey through Hyrule a unique experience. As we anticipate new chapters, it’s clear that the series’ impact on gaming and pop culture is, quite simply, legendary.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Legend of Zelda follows the Adult Timeline?
The Adult Timeline in “The Legend of Zelda” series includes the following games:
- “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker” (2002)
- “The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass” (2007)
- “The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks” (2009)
These games follow the events after Link defeats Ganondorf in “Ocarina of Time,” but unlike the Child Timeline, Link does not return to his original time, leaving Hyrule to evolve without him.
2. Where does “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” fit in the timeline?
The placement of “Breath of the Wild” in the Zelda timeline is a subject of much debate and speculation. The game is set in a Hyrule that is both ancient and post-apocalyptic, 10,000 years after a vague “distant past.” While it draws elements from all the different timelines, it neither fits neatly into any one of them nor attempts to specify its exact location within the broader narrative. However, it shares its timeline with its direct sequel, “Tears of the Kingdom,” and has many thematic and structural similarities to the Fallen Hero timeline.
3. Where does “The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds” fit in the timeline?
“The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds” (2013) is part of the Fallen Hero Timeline. This game is a spiritual successor to “A Link to the Past,” and it takes place many years after the events of that game. It introduces new game mechanics, like the ability for Link to merge into walls as a 2D painting, while revisiting the dual-world concept first introduced in “A Link to the Past.”
