The Legend of Zelda is one of the most iconic and influential video game series in the history of gaming. Spanning decades and multiple console generations, it has introduced players to a world of magic, courage, and timeless adventure. For newcomers and longtime fans alike, understanding the correct order of Zelda games whether by release or in-universe chronology can be a fascinating journey. This guide breaks down all the main Zelda games in order, helping players navigate the series and appreciate the evolution of gameplay, storytelling, and innovation across each title.
Zelda Games by Release Date
Many fans prefer to experience Zelda games in the order they were released. This path shows the progression of graphics, mechanics, and storytelling, offering a historical perspective of how the series has developed since its origins on the NES.
List of Main Zelda Games by Release
- 1986 The Legend of Zelda (NES)
- 1987 Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (NES)
- 1991 A Link to the Past (SNES)
- 1993 Link’s Awakening (Game Boy)
- 1998 Ocarina of Time (Nintendo 64)
- 2000 Majora’s Mask (Nintendo 64)
- 2001 Oracle of Ages / Oracle of Seasons (Game Boy Color)
- 2002 Four Swords (Game Boy Advance)
- 2002 The Wind Waker (GameCube)
- 2004 Four Swords Adventures (GameCube)
- 2004 The Minish Cap (Game Boy Advance)
- 2006 Twilight Princess (GameCube/Wii)
- 2007 Phantom Hourglass (Nintendo DS)
- 2009 Spirit Tracks (Nintendo DS)
- 2011 Skyward Sword (Wii)
- 2013 A Link Between Worlds (Nintendo 3DS)
- 2015 Tri Force Heroes (Nintendo 3DS)
- 2017 Breath of the Wild (Wii U/Switch)
- 2023 Tears of the Kingdom (Switch)
- 2025 Echoes of Wisdom (Switch)
This release order provides a clear roadmap for those who want to witness the series’ technical and creative growth over time. However, the Zelda timeline is not linear, and Nintendo has confirmed a more complex official chronology that places the games in alternate realities and eras.
Zelda Timeline Order (Official Chronology)
Nintendo’s official timeline, published in the Hyrule Historia book and subsequent releases, divides the Zelda universe into three separate timelines following the events of Ocarina of Time. This split occurs when Link either succeeds, fails, or returns to his childhood. Below is how the games are arranged within this timeline-based structure.
The Unified Timeline (Before the Split)
- Skyward Sword
- The Minish Cap
- Four Swords
- Ocarina of Time
The events of Ocarina of Time serve as the branching point that leads into three separate outcomes based on Link’s fate.
Timeline 1: The Decline Timeline (If Link Fails in Ocarina of Time)
- A Link to the Past
- Link’s Awakening
- Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons
- A Link Between Worlds
- Tri Force Heroes
- The Legend of Zelda
- Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
Timeline 2: The Child Timeline (Link Returns to the Past)
- Majora’s Mask
- Twilight Princess
- Four Swords Adventures
Timeline 3: The Adult Timeline (Link Defeats Ganon and Leaves)
- The Wind Waker
- Phantom Hourglass
- Spirit Tracks
Each of these timelines presents its own vision of Hyrule’s fate and explores the consequences of Link’s choices across time. While complex, they add a fascinating layer of depth to the Zelda universe and are a point of interest for lore enthusiasts.
Where Do Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Fit?
Nintendo has remained intentionally vague about where Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom fall within the established timeline. However, the prevailing belief among fans is that these games take place far in the future, possibly after all three timelines converge. These entries present a Hyrule that has lived through countless ages and calamities, blending technology and magic in a way that suggests a culmination of all prior histories.
Due to this ambiguity, many choose to view the modern titles as their own distinct saga, rather than trying to force them into an exact chronological slot.
Remakes and Spin-offs
In addition to the mainline titles, several Zelda games have been remade or reimagined for newer consoles. These versions often include updated graphics, quality-of-life improvements, and slight changes to gameplay, but the core narrative remains intact. Some key remakes include:
- Ocarina of Time 3D (Nintendo 3DS)
- Majora’s Mask 3D (Nintendo 3DS)
- Link’s Awakening (Nintendo Switch)
- Skyward Sword HD (Nintendo Switch)
While not essential to play in release or timeline order, these remakes are a great way to enjoy classic adventures with modern polish.
Best Way to Play Zelda Games in Order
By Release or Timeline?
Choosing how to play the Zelda series depends on your goals. If you’re interested in understanding how the series evolved mechanically and narratively, playing by release date is ideal. However, if you are deeply invested in the lore and story of Hyrule, following the timeline may provide more context and emotional depth.
Suggested Playing Routes
- New Players: Start with Ocarina of Time, A Link to the Past, and Breath of the Wild for a balanced introduction.
- Story Enthusiasts: Follow the official timeline beginning with Skyward Sword.
- Classic Fans: Play the games in release order to experience the growth of the franchise over time.
The Zelda series offers an incredible array of adventures, each with its own unique story, mechanics, and charm. Whether you’re playing the games in order of release or following the complex Zelda timeline, there’s no wrong way to explore Hyrule. With each game offering a blend of puzzle-solving, exploration, and heartfelt storytelling, players can find joy in any entry. Understanding the Zelda games in order enhances appreciation for the world Nintendo has built and deepens the connection fans have with its timeless heroes and enduring legacy.