The Legend of Zelda Series Celebrates its 40th Anniversary: A Ranking of Zelda Games on Nintendo Switch

The Legend of Zelda is one of the most iconic and beloved gaming franchises of all time. With a history spanning over four decades, the series has captivated audiences with its rich storyline, memorable characters, and innovative gameplay mechanics. As the franchise celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, fans are eager to revisit their favorite titles or discover new ones. In this article, we'll rank the Zelda games available on the Nintendo Switch from best to worst.

1. The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

Released in 2017, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is widely regarded as one of the greatest games of all time. This open-world adventure set in the vast wilderness of Hyrule is a masterclass in game design, storytelling, and innovation.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's physics engine, which allows for realistic interactions with the environment, was a major departure from traditional Zelda formula.
• Immersive world: The game's vast open-world is full of secrets, hidden temples, and mysterious landscapes to explore.
• Rich storyline: While the story is not as complex as some other games in the series, it provides a compelling narrative that explores the consequences of Link's awakening.

2. The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

Released in 2013 for the Nintendo 3DS, The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is often cited as one of the best games in the series. This sequel to A Link to the Past features innovative gameplay mechanics, a rich storyline, and stunning visuals.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's introduction of parallel worlds and a new type of dungeon design adds a fresh twist to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: The game's Hyrule is full of secrets, hidden temples, and mysterious landscapes to explore.
• Rich storyline: The game's narrative explores the consequences of Link's actions in the previous game, adding depth to the series' lore.

3. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

Released in 2011 for the Nintendo 3DS, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D is a re-release of the classic N64 title. While it may not be as innovative as Breath of the Wild or A Link Between Worlds, it remains an essential entry in the series.

• Timeless gameplay: The game's 3D gameplay and Z-targeting system still hold up today, making it a joy to play.
• Immersive world: Hyrule Castle, Goron City, and other locations are as memorable as ever.
• Iconic storyline: Ocarina of Time's narrative is widely regarded as one of the greatest in gaming history.

4. The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

Released in 2006 for the GameCube and Wii, The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess is a darker, more mature take on traditional Zelda gameplay.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's introduction of horseback riding and a new type of dungeon design adds variety to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: Hyrule is as beautiful as ever, with stunning landscapes and atmospheric sound design.
• Rich storyline: The game's narrative explores the consequences of Link's actions in previous games.

5. The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D

Released in 2015 for the Nintendo 3DS, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D is a re-release of the classic N64 title. While it may not be as well-known as some other titles in the series, it remains an essential entry.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's time-loop mechanic adds a fresh twist to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: Clock Town and other locations are as memorable as ever.
• Rich storyline: Majora's Mask's narrative is widely regarded as one of the most complex in gaming history.

6. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

Released in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is a charming remake of the classic Game Boy title.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's puzzle-solving and exploration add variety to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: Koholint Island is as colorful and vibrant as ever.
• Rich storyline: While not as complex as some other titles in the series, Link's Awakening provides a compelling narrative.

7. The Legend of Zelda: Cadence of Hyrule

Released in 2019 for the Nintendo Switch, The Legend of Zelda: Cadence of Hyrule is a rhythm-based action game developed by Brace Yourself Games and published by Nintendo.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's unique blend of music and action adds a fresh twist to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: Hyrule is as beautiful as ever, with stunning landscapes and atmospheric sound design.
• Rich storyline: While not as complex as some other titles in the series, Cadence of Hyrule provides a compelling narrative.

8. The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes

Released in 2015 for the Nintendo 3DS, The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes is a multiplayer-focused spin-off that challenges players to work together to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's emphasis on teamwork and cooperation adds a fresh twist to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: While not as memorable as some other locations in the series, Tri Force Heroes' Hyrule is still visually stunning.
• Rich storyline: While not as complex as some other titles in the series, Tri Force Heroes provides a compelling narrative.

9. The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages

Released in 2001 for the Game Boy Color, The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages are two classic spin-off titles that offer unique gameplay mechanics and storylines.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: Both games feature innovative puzzles and exploration mechanics that set them apart from traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: While not as memorable as some other locations in the series, both Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages provide visually stunning environments.
• Rich storyline: While not as complex as some other titles in the series, both games offer compelling narratives.

10. The Legend of Zelda: Link's Crossbow Training

Released in 2007 for the Wii, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Crossbow Training is a rail-shooter spin-off that challenges players to aim and shoot targets to progress through levels.

• Innovative gameplay mechanics: The game's emphasis on aiming and shooting adds variety to traditional Zelda gameplay.
• Immersive world: While not as memorable as some other locations in the series, Link's Crossbow Training features visually stunning environments.
• Rich storyline: While not as complex as some other titles in the series, Link's Crossbow Training provides a compelling narrative.

While opinions may vary, this ranking represents a general consensus among fans and critics. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the series or a newcomer looking to explore the world of Hyrule, there's something for everyone in this list.