The Legend of Zelda has captivated players for decades, weaving together tales of heroism, adventure, and magical worlds. With the highly anticipated release of Tears of the Kingdom finally on the horizon, fans are eagerly awaiting the next installment in this beloved franchise.
From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Hyrule to the heart-pounding battles against formidable foes, there are countless moments that have left a mark on our gaming experiences. Before we start a new journey in Tears of the Kingdom, let’s remember 10 iconic moments from the Zelda series.
It’s Dangerous To Go Alone! Take This
“It’s dangerous to go alone! Take this” is a famous line from the original Legend of Zelda game in 1986. The quote, which is said by an old man in a cave on the very first screen of the very first game in the series, represents the beginning of a new adventure. It sets the tone by letting the player know that their quest will be full of danger. The old man gives Link a simple wooden sword to get him started on the quest.
The line has been repeated in subsequent Zelda games, paying homage to its significance in the series. Various forms of media has also referenced and parodied it over the years. It has become a memorable catchphrase associated with the Zelda franchise and is quite possibly the most recognizable quote in the series.
Drawn Into the Dark World
A Link to the Past has many iconic moments, and one of the biggest is put into motion after Link collects the three pendants needed to pull the Master Sword from its pedestal. The was the first time the legendary blade appeared in a Zelda game.
When Link attempts to rescue Princess Zelda using the Master Sword, the evil wizard Agahnim transports them to the Dark World using his magic.
The Dark World is a corrupted version of Hyrule, filled with treacherous landscapes and dangerous creatures. In this alternate realm, Link’s appearance changes into a pink bunny-like form. His abilities are significantly limited unless he finds an item called the Moon Pearl that allows him to retain his original form.
The moment of being sent to the Dark World for the first time is a huge twist because it essentially doubles the size of Hyrule, an incredible feat for an SNES game. It was what turned a big adventure into a grand one.
Seven Years Into the Future
In Ocarina of Time, there is a significant plot development involving a seven-year time skip. This narrative shift plays a crucial role in the game’s storyline and gameplay mechanics.
Upon pulling the Master Sword from its pedestal in the Temple of Time, Link inadvertently triggers the time skip. He is the chosen hero who will wield the Master Sword and confront Ganondorf. When Link takes the sword, he is sealed in the Sacred Realm while he matures into a capable adult.
Upon awakening, Link finds himself in a transformed Hyrule. Ganondorf has taken over the land, transforming it into a dark and corrupted version of itself. Princess Zelda goes into hiding, and the sages who hold the power to seal Ganondorf away are scattered throughout Hyrule.
The time skip in Ocarina of Time is an iconic moment that introduces a dramatic shift in gameplay and narrative. It serves as a turning point in the game’s story and highlights the theme of time manipulation, which has become a recurring motif in the Zelda series.