Top 10 The Legend of Zelda Games

[Oathfish]

You're really going to make me do this?
1. Oracle of Seasons
2. Oracle of Ages
3. Minish Cap
4. Link to the Past
5. Link Between Worlds
6.Link's Awakening
7. Twilight Princess
8. Wind Waker
9. Spirit Tracks
10. Legend of Zelda OG.
11. Phantom hourglass
12. Skyward Sword
13. Ocarina of Time
14. Adventure of Link

Spoiler: 15. Being put in a clockwork orange setup and forced to watch the following back to back on a continuous loop:

16. Majora's Mask

I suspect that we look for drastically different things in a Zelda game lol.

It's really too bad you don't like MM. Any particular reason why? It has great atmosphere, a strong story, fantastic characters, and countless memorable moments. Not to mention that being able to transform into a Deku Scrub, a Zora, and a Goron offered variation on gameplay.

Is it some kind of gameplay element you didn't enjoy? I know a lot of people were turned off by the 3 day cycle.

 

[Ravenbom]

I don't think that people give the DS Zelda games their due.
The central dungeon on a timer is a big hit against Phantom Hourglass but Spirit Tracks really fixed it.

Twilight Princess, Wind Waker and Skyward Sword have SERIOUS pacing issues.
So does Majora's Mask, but I think that's more to due with the structure of the game itself. The Bomber's notebook is a good addition.

I'm actually very excited about all the Zelda remakes in the last few years. They cleaned up Wind Waker, Majora's Mask and the Water Temple in Ocarina of Time. I hope they streamline the Twilight Princess remake.

 

[Brian Tams]

(sees that MM isn't #1)

*twitches*

(sees that OoT was erroneously ranked higher than MM)

*twitching intensifies*

 

[pearcinator]

MM #1
OOT #2
WW #3
TP #4
ALBW #5
SS #6

(sees that MM isn't #1)

*twitches*

(sees that OoT was erroneously ranked higher than MM)

*twitching intensifies*

Damn straight! Saw MM at 3 and went 'wrong! it's number 1!'

 

[Hawki]

(sees that MM isn't #1)

*twitches*

(sees that OoT was erroneously ranked higher than MM)

*twitching intensifies*

It's bad enough that Majora's Mask is ranked as highly as it is on both this list and the readers' poll. Maybe that twitching is from wearing the actual mask itself for too long.

 

[Arnoxthe1]

Okay guys, let's be honest. MM wouldn't have even existed without the foundation OoT laid. It's like people are trying to ignore how much MM actually borrows from OoT at its base.

 

[Kyrian007]

I feel sorry for Skyward Sword.

That game is perhaps the only 3D Zelda game where enemies pose a challange.

And no I mastered the Wii-mote controls of that game so the whole excuse of "the controls sucking" is not a objective fact.

Yeah, I've always thought that the folks complaining about wiimote controls are just people who didn't set up their Wii's right. I never had any problems with mine on any game.

As far as the list goes, I'd have switched 1 and 2 but in my mind that's a very close race and I don't mind. I'd have had Wind Waker a spot higher over Twilight Princess as well. But those are small issues. Oh, I'd have dropped any titles released on handhelds only because on any list I make handhelds are just toys for kiddievinkies and don't really count with the big boy games.

 

[Casual Shinji]

Twilight Princess would've been a fine Zelda game... if Wind Waker didn't exist. But it does, and it makes TP look like the empty, lifeless husk that it is.

 

[Oathfish]

Okay guys, let's be honest. MM wouldn't have even existed without the foundation OoT laid. It's like people are trying to ignore how much MM actually borrows from OoT at its base.

Not at all. MM is just an objectively better game the OoT. It builds on the foundation to create a far more complex and engrossing experience. I don't think anyone is trying to ignore the connection between the two - MM is practically an asset flip.

 

[Hawki]

Okay guys, let's be honest. MM wouldn't have even existed without the foundation OoT laid. It's like people are trying to ignore how much MM actually borrows from OoT at its base.

Not at all. MM is just an objectively better game the OoT. It builds on the foundation to create a far more complex and engrossing experience. I don't think anyone is trying to ignore the connection between the two - MM is practically an asset flip.

That's hardly a fact. Saying something is "a more complex and engrossing experience" or "an objectively better game" isn't a statement of fact, it's a statement of opinion. But here's some facts:

-Fact: Majora's Mask has far fewer dungeons than Ocarina of Time.

-Fact: Majora's Mask is, as you point out, an asset flip. It's practically an expansion to Ocarina of Time.

-Fact: Majora's Mask has that three day cycle which factually makes it impossible to explore at your leisure at your own pace (in that you'll always reach the stage of having to rewind the clock).

-Fact: However one may feel about the story of Majora's Mask, it's a story that's irrelevant in the greater scheme of things. Ocarina of Time is a watershed for the series, in that not only does it show the origins of Ganondorf (Demise aside), not only did it split the timeline in two, but by extension of that, it spawned two sequels. Most Legend of Zelda games can be played in isolation from each other, but you can easily play Ocarina of Time then Twilight Princess without playing Majora's Mask (as in, it's completely irrelevant to TP), whereas playing Ocarina of Time before Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, while not essential, is undeniably the basis of both games' backstories.

Now, there's plenty of other reasons why I consider OoT to be superior to Majora's Mask (you can see the voting thread for an insight into said reasons), but those are hardly facts. It isn't a "fact" that Ocarina of Time is better than Majora's Mask, nor is the opposite a "fact." However, while I believe the former to be true, I at least accept that it's my opinion.

 

[Oathfish]

Okay guys, let's be honest. MM wouldn't have even existed without the foundation OoT laid. It's like people are trying to ignore how much MM actually borrows from OoT at its base.

Not at all. MM is just an objectively better game the OoT. It builds on the foundation to create a far more complex and engrossing experience. I don't think anyone is trying to ignore the connection between the two - MM is practically an asset flip.

That's hardly a fact. Saying something is "a more complex and engrossing experience" or "an objectively better game" isn't a statement of fact.

Yeah, using the term "objectively" is a bit of a douche move. Obviously it is a subjective choice.

-Fact: Majora's Mask has far fewer dungeons than Ocarina of Time.

This is true, but I don't think this detract from the game any. Though, arguably it comes down from what you want from the game. For me, the scarcity of dungeons made them feel more impressive when they occurred, and their low number was offset by the increased focus on the overworld itself. There was a sense in MM that everything was connected that really did it for me, though I understand it's not for very one.

-Fact: Majora's Mask is, as you point out, an asset flip. It's practically an expansion to Ocarina of Time.

I think calling MM "practically an expansion" is a little unfair. It certainly is its own game, with plenty of original content. I always enjoyed the fact that the same character models were used - made the alternate world seem that much more surreal.

[

-Fact: Majora's Mask has that three day cycle which factually makes it impossible to explore at your leisure at your own pace (in that you'll always reach the stage of having to rewind the clock)

Honestly, I never had this problem. Once you can slow time down, I found that exploration was fine. It was a smaller game map and facilitated the 3 hour limit nicely. The 3 hour time limit also, as pointed out in the article, created this sense of what you weren't doing, what you were allowing to happen, and what you could expect to be happening all around you - it created parameters through which the world could come alive.

-Fact: However one may feel about the story of Majora's Mask, it's a story that's irrelevant in the greater scheme of things. Ocarina of Time is a watershed for the series, in that not only does it show the origins of Ganondorf (Demise aside), not only did it split the timeline in two, but by extension of that, it spawned two sequels. Most Legend of Zelda games can be played in isolation from each other, but you can easily play Ocarina of Time then Twilight Princess without playing Majora's Mask (as in, it's completely irrelevant to TP), whereas playing Ocarina of Time before Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, while not essential, is undeniably the basis of both games' backstories.

You are right about OoT being a watershed moment. I adore OoT and recognize its significance (hence why it is the 2nd on my list). I just felt that MM was a more satisfying and intelligent experience. You are right as well, in terms of how influential OoT has been in the series...only I feel that this influence has been to the detriment of the series as a whole. MM offered something risky and new - something Nintendo has been hesitant to do on the same scale sense and thus something that has led to the series feeling a little stale. I think the series would have been stronger if they had pushed the envelope more in subsequent releases, following MM's design of new enemies, new adventures, and intriguing, atmospheric worlds.

 

[Nazulu]

Oh good, there is some defense for Ocarina Of Time. Seems many have forgotten it's quality's over time. As it's been noted, it's not very strong in the story and character department (though it has some charm), but the level design and atmosphere is still some of the best in the entire series, and it still has some of the most awesome boss fights.

However, I've come to prefer Majora's Mask in the end. I feel it's generally less predictable, often eerie or chaotic and very effective, it's story and symbolism is inspiring, many more unique abilities (I especially love swimming), and the final boss is the most creative challenge out of everything Nintendo to me.

And finally, I would not put Skyward Sword even 100 feet near a Best Zelda poll. Fuck that game and it's stupid ass controls and crappy story contribution. The early games were obviously not based around some timeline and I always hated that idea. It's half ass and pointless.

Edit: Oh yeah, and LttP would be my third. Love the list either way.

 

[Samtemdo8_v1legacy]

Twilight Princess would've been a fine Zelda game... if Wind Waker didn't exist. But it does, and it makes TP look like the empty, lifeless husk that it is.

How dare you say Twilight Princess is an Empty, Lifeless, Husk, as if Wind Waker was chalk full of content?

Most of the game is just empty oceans. And most of the "side activities" is just to get collectables like Pieces of Heart.

And do I have to remind you of the Triforce collectathon?

One of the things that makes TP better is that Dungeons in Twilight Princess are the most largest, sprawling, and epic dungeons Zelda has ever made. Even the first dungeon in that game is bigger than Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask combined. And Wind Waker techincally only has 4, Twilght Princess 9.

And don't give me that excuse that "the graphics are old and dated, Wind Waker looks timelss" please I hate the art style of Wind Waker, it just seems to baby-ish. And yes Wind Waker had serious moments but I still can't shake off the whole look of the game. And Twilight Princess Link had just as much facial expression as Wind Waker's Link.

Besides I personally think Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask is the quintissential art style for Zelda. Link should look like this all the time:

http://vignette4.wikia.nocookie.net/zelda/images/5/54/Link_Artwork_1_(Ocarina_of_Time).png/revision/latest?cb=20120124215034&path-prefix=es

And I am getting Tired of Nintendo constantly re-using the Wind Waker Art style of Link in Later Games. As if the Ocarina of Time and Twilight Princess were not viable

Oh yeah and Twilight Princess has fishing, Wind Waker, Suprisingly, Does not.

 

[WhiteFangofWhoa]

I don't understand the hate for Skyward Sword.

Big Reasons for me:
-Everything about Fi
-Everything about Silent Realms
-Empty sky overworld

Small Reasons:
-Multiple major boss refights (Imprisoned One, Girahnim, Moldarach...)
-Forced me to buy a Wii Motion plus for that one game

'Hate' is perhaps too strong a word, but it was my least favourite Zelda of all the games. I would've put Spirit Tracks in its place, but that may be partly due to an irrational fondness for any good game with a focus on trains.

 

[SirSullymore]

WW was always my favorite.

Also, is it cool to hate Oot now?

 

[Casual Shinji]

Twilight Princess... BOO!

How dare you say Twilight Princess is an Empty, Lifeless, Husk, as if Wind Waker was chalk full of content?

Most of the game is just empty oceans. And most of the "side activities" is just to get collectables like Pieces of Heart.

The devil's in the details.

There wasn't that much to do on the ocean, but the whole thing was completely open. And with the wind at your back, the ocassional seagulls accompanying you, and the travel theme it gave a fantastic sense of adventure. The ocean never felt static, with the surface of the water changing regularly, and day and night following eachother promptly. Something was always popping up or coming into view, whether it was some barrels, an island, a platform, a light ring, some sharks or an octopuss.

And do I have to remind you of the Triforce collectathon?

No, just as you don't need to remind me of the Wind Temple, or the Boss rush at the end. Just as I'm sure I don't need to remind you of those lovely bug hunting missions in Twilight Princess.

One of the things that makes TP better is that Dungeons in Twilight Princess are the most largest, sprawling, and epic dungeons Zelda has ever made. Even the first dungeon in that game is bigger than Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask combined. And Wind Waker techincally only has 4, Twilght Princess 9.

Yep, the dungeons in TP are overal better. Still doesn't stop the overworld and the characters from being boring as all hell.

And don't give me that excuse that "the graphics are old and dated, Wind Waker looks timelss" please I hate the art style of Wind Waker, it just seems to baby-ish. And yes Wind Waker had serious moments but I still can't shake off the whole look of the game.

That's not an excuse, that's just a plain ol' fact. Realistic graphics become outdated faster than cartoony ones. Whether you like them or not doesn't really enter into that.

And Twilight Princess Link had just as much facial expression as Wind Waker's Link.

What, you mean that one time he opens his eyes and mouth just a tad further to show surprise? TP Link was about as expressive as Keanu Reeves. Without the Zen-like charm.

Now I'll admit that pitting TP against WW to see who's the most charismatic and charming is unfair, since they go for a very different vibe. The difference is that Wind Waker makes the most out of it's aesthetic, while Twilight Princess... doesn't. Just like the Wolf Form it's just sort of there, because Nintendo felt pressured to make it "dark" due to fans being upset about Wind Waker being cartoony. Nothing wrong with dark, but then actually do something with it other than 'Look, a wolf with an earring'.

 

[Samtemdo8_v1legacy]

Twilight Princess... BOO!

How dare you say Twilight Princess is an Empty, Lifeless, Husk, as if Wind Waker was chalk full of content?

Most of the game is just empty oceans. And most of the "side activities" is just to get collectables like Pieces of Heart.

The devil's in the details.

There wasn't that much to do on the ocean, but the whole thing was completely open. And with the wind at your back, the ocassional seagulls accompanying you, and the travel theme it gave a fantastic sense of adventure. The ocean never felt static, with the surface of the water changing regularly, and day and night following eachother promptly. Something was always popping up or coming into view, whether it was some barrels, an island, a platform, a light ring, some sharks or an octopuss.

And do I have to remind you of the Triforce collectathon?

No, just as you don't need to remind me of the Wind Temple, or the Boss rush at the end. Just as I'm sure I don't need to remind you of those lovely bug hunting missions in Twilight Princess.

One of the things that makes TP better is that Dungeons in Twilight Princess are the most largest, sprawling, and epic dungeons Zelda has ever made. Even the first dungeon in that game is bigger than Ocarina of Time, Majora's Mask combined. And Wind Waker techincally only has 4, Twilght Princess 9.

Yep, the dungeons in TP are overal better. Still doesn't stop the overworld and the characters from being boring as all hell.

And don't give me that excuse that "the graphics are old and dated, Wind Waker looks timelss" please I hate the art style of Wind Waker, it just seems to baby-ish. And yes Wind Waker had serious moments but I still can't shake off the whole look of the game.

That's not an excuse, that's just a plain ol' fact. Realistic graphics become outdated faster than cartoony ones. Whether you like them or not doesn't really enter into that.

And Twilight Princess Link had just as much facial expression as Wind Waker's Link.

What, you mean that one time he opens his eyes and mouth just a tad further to show surprise? TP Link was about as expressive as Keanu Reeves. Without the Zen-like charm.

Now I'll admit that pitting TP against WW to see who's the most charismatic and charming is unfair, since they go for a very different vibe. The difference is that Wind Waker makes the most out of it's aesthetic, while Twilight Princess... doesn't. Just like the Wolf Form it's just sort of there, because Nintendo felt pressured to make it "dark" due to fans being upset about Wind Waker being cartoony. Nothing wrong with dark, but then actually do something with it other than 'Look, a wolf with an earring'.

1. The Traveling Theme in Twlight Princess is just as epic:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pRHoPxAfy_Q

And come on Hyrule Field in TP was not that empty, there is that large Spot where Orc pig riders wander.

And its fun riding Epona around and seeing Hyrule Castle in the distance.

2. TP Link Smiled, Scowled, Saddened, and even cringed at times.

3. The Bug Hunting Misions were no where near as bad as the Trifoce collectathon. And besides its optional and I 100% Twilight Princess in my playthrough.

4. Also Midna is awesome.

 

[Casual Shinji]

3. The Bug Hunting Misions were no where near as bad as the Trifoce collectathon. And besides its optional and I 100% Twilight Princess in my playthrough.

I meant the twilight/vessel of light shit. The thing you have to do three goddamn times.

4. Also Midna is awesome.

Midna was great for the first half, after which she turns all boring and noble. Something Twilight Princess has in common with Wind Waker; An awesome female side character that suddenly turns lame.

 

[Samtemdo8_v1legacy]

3. The Bug Hunting Misions were no where near as bad as the Trifoce collectathon. And besides its optional and I 100% Twilight Princess in my playthrough.

I meant the twilight/vessel of light shit. The thing you have to do three goddamn times.

4. Also Midna is awesome.

Midna was great for the first half, after which she turns all boring and noble. Something Twilight Princess has in common with Wind Waker; An awesome female side character that suddenly turns lame.

1. Even then the Light vessels were not as hard and annoying as the Triforce collecting.

2. Ok come one thats a bit too harsh against Wind Waker Zelda and Midna.

Wind Waker Zelda still fight along side Link against Ganondorf, and Midna aswell.

And no Midna did not became boring and noble in the end considering her first line to Link.

 

[Souplex]

You're really going to make me do this?
1. Oracle of Seasons
2. Oracle of Ages
3. Minish Cap
4. Link to the Past
5. Link Between Worlds
6.Link's Awakening
7. Twilight Princess
8. Wind Waker
9. Spirit Tracks
10. Legend of Zelda OG.
11. Phantom hourglass
12. Skyward Sword
13. Ocarina of Time
14. Adventure of Link

Spoiler: 15. Being put in a clockwork orange setup and forced to watch the following back to back on a continuous loop:

16. Majora's Mask

I suspect that we look for drastically different things in a Zelda game lol.

It's really too bad you don't like MM. Any particular reason why? It has great atmosphere, a strong story, fantastic characters, and countless memorable moments. Not to mention that being able to transform into a Deku Scrub, a Zora, and a Goron offered variation on gameplay.

Is it some kind of gameplay element you didn't enjoy? I know a lot of people were turned off by the 3 day cycle.

In addition to the fact that the N64 Zeldas are just unpleasant to play, they are a sad reminder that Zelda should never have been made 3D.
The reasons I hate Majora's Mask with a fiery hatred that can only be warranted by something of the poor quality of Majora's Mask are as follows: The dungeons are absolutely awful, the puzzles are boring, it has the terrible N64 Zelda combat, the art-direction is simply ugly, and yes, the 3-day thing doesn't help.
Also, I forgot about Four Swords: Adventures for the Gamecube, which I'd put at #6, so bump everything below it down a notch in the totem pole.

WW was always my favorite.

Also, is it cool to hate Oot now?

It started to become acceptable around 09 when members of Generation G (Don't use the term "Millenial" it's a stupid term used by stupid people) came of age, and decided that instead of being nostalgic for other people's childhoods, they would form their own opinions, went back and played OoT, and realized how terrible it really was, combined with how much 30-somethings liked it made them hate it even more.
It's the Half-Life 2/Justin Beiber effect. If something not good to terrible has an insanely dedicated fanbase, people outside of that fanbase will hate it even more for the unwarranted love it receives.