All Legend Of Zelda Games In Order Complete List.

The Legend of Zelda series, spanning over three decades, is a rich and complex universe with numerous games, each contributing to its expansive lore. To navigate this vast array of titles, understanding the chronological order and the different timelines is crucial.

The Official Timelines

The Legend of Zelda series is divided into multiple timelines, which were officially recognized by Nintendo through the publication of the "Hyrule Historia" book in 2011. These timelines branch out from key events, particularly those in "Ocarina of Time".

• Child Timeline: This timeline follows the events where Link is sent back to his childhood after defeating Ganon. It includes games like "Majora's Mask," "Twilight Princess," and "Four Swords Adventures".
• Adult Timeline: This timeline follows the events where Link remains an adult after defeating Ganon. It includes games like "Wind Waker," "Phantom Hourglass," and "Spirit Tracks".
• Fallen Hero Timeline: This timeline branches off from a scenario where Ganon wins. It includes games like "A Link to the Past," "Link's Awakening," "Oracle of Seasons," "Oracle of Ages," and "A Link Between Worlds".
• Calamity Timeline: This is a more recent addition, associated with the events leading up to "Breath of the Wild" and its sequel "Tears of the Kingdom".

All Legend of Zelda Games in Chronological Order

Given the complexity of the timelines, here is a concise list to help you navigate the series in chronological order:

Skyward Sword

• Release Date: 2011
• System: Wii
• Notes: This game is considered the earliest in the Zelda timeline, setting the stage for the creation of the Master Sword and the origins of the conflict between good and evil.

The Minish Cap

• Release Date: 2004
• System: Game Boy Advance
• Notes: This game explores the origins of the Four Sword and the Picori, small creatures that play a significant role in the Zelda universe.

Ocarina of Time

• Release Date: 1998
• System: Nintendo 64
• Notes: A pivotal game in the series, it introduces 3D gameplay and is the point from which the three main timelines branch off.

Child Timeline

• Majora's Mask
  • Release Date: 2000
  • System: Nintendo 64
  • Notes: Known for its unique time-loop mechanic, where Link must relive the same three days to prevent the moon from crashing into Termina.
• Twilight Princess
  • Release Date: 2006
  • System: Nintendo GameCube, Wii
  • Notes: This game features a darker tone and introduces the Twilight Realm, a parallel world to Hyrule.
• Four Swords Adventures
  • Release Date: 2004
  • System: Nintendo GameCube
  • Notes: A multiplayer-focused game that explores the legend of the Four Sword.

Adult Timeline

• Wind Waker
  • Release Date: 2002
  • System: Nintendo GameCube
  • Notes: Known for its cel-shaded graphics, this game takes place in a post-apocalyptic Hyrule where the land is flooded.
• Phantom Hourglass
  • Release Date: 2007
  • System: Nintendo DS
  • Notes: A direct sequel to "Wind Waker," it continues the story of Link and Tetra.
• Spirit Tracks
  • Release Date: 2009
  • System: Nintendo DS
  • Notes: Set many years after "Phantom Hourglass," it introduces a new protagonist and a unique train-based transportation system.

Fallen Hero Timeline

• A Link to the Past
  • Release Date: 1991
  • System: Super Nintendo Entertainment System
  • Notes: A classic game that set the template for many future Zelda titles, featuring a parallel world known as the Dark World.
• Link's Awakening
  • Release Date: 1993
  • System: Game Boy
  • Notes: A handheld game that takes place outside the main Hyrule setting, on the mysterious Koholint Island.
• Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages
  • Release Date: 2001
  • System: Game Boy Color
  • Notes: These games are interconnected and must be played in sequence to fully understand the story.
• A Link Between Worlds
  • Release Date: 2013
  • System: Nintendo 3DS
  • Notes: A sequel to "A Link to the Past," it introduces a new mechanic allowing Link to travel between walls.
• Tri Force Heroes
  • Release Date: 2015
  • System: Nintendo 3DS
  • Notes: A multiplayer-focused game that takes place in the kingdom of Hytopia.
• The Legend of Zelda
  • Release Date: 1986
  • System: NES
  • Notes: The first game in the series, introducing the core characters and the Triforce.
• Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
  • Release Date: 1987
  • System: NES
  • Notes: The direct sequel to the first game, known for its side-scrolling sections and increased difficulty.

Calamity Timeline

• Breath of the Wild
  • Release Date: 2017
  • System: Nintendo Switch, Wii U
  • Notes: A game that significantly deviates from traditional Zelda formulas, featuring an open-world environment and a post-apocalyptic setting.
• Tears of the Kingdom
  • Release Date: 2023
  • System: Nintendo Switch
  • Notes: The sequel to "Breath of the Wild," continuing the story of Link and Zelda in a new, expansive world.

Additional Tips for Playing the Series

Understanding the Timelines

• Branching Timelines: The Zelda series is known for its branching timelines, which can make it confusing to follow the narrative. However, each game provides enough context to be enjoyed independently.
• Playing Order: While the games can be played in any order, following the chronological order within each timeline can enhance the narrative experience.

Gameplay Evolution

• 2D to 3D Transition: The series transitioned from 2D to 3D with "Ocarina of Time," which revolutionized the gameplay experience. Understanding this transition can help appreciate the evolution of the series.
• Innovative Mechanics: Each game introduces new mechanics, such as the time-loop in "Majora's Mask" or the wall-traveling in "A Link Between Worlds." These innovations keep the series fresh and engaging.

Release Order vs. Chronological Order

• Release Order: Playing the games in release order allows you to experience the series as it was originally intended, seeing the evolution of gameplay and graphics over time.
• Chronological Order: Playing in chronological order provides a more linear narrative experience, but it requires understanding the complex timelines and their branches.

By following this guide, you can navigate the vast and intricate world of The Legend of Zelda, appreciating both the individual games and the overarching narrative that binds them together.