These are some of the best sequels in the Legend of Zelda series based on Metascores and GameFAQs user ratings. Each game offers unique elements and improvements over its predecessor, showcasing the evolution of the franchise.
The Zelda saga is renowned not only for its thrilling adventures, but also for its complex and intricately branching storylines. For instance, “Ocarina of Time” branches off into two distinct continuations while serving as a prequel to “A Link to the Past.” Likewise, the original NES game represents a sequel of sorts to “A Link Between Worlds” and “Tri Force Heroes.” All these timeline divergences eventually culminate in “Breath of the Wild.”
Despite the intricacy of some elements in “The Legend of Zelda” series, not all entries follow this complex pattern. A few games do have straightforward sequels with continuity that directly follows the previous installment. These games don’t involve time manipulations, alternate timelines, or uncertainty regarding Hyrule’s condition. However, it is essential to note that the quality of these Zelda sequels can vary. The following are some outstanding Zelda sequels.
6 The Adventure of Link
Metascore: 73 (GBA)
In addition to “Super Mario Bros 2” and “Castlevania 2: Simon’s Quest,” another NES sequel emerges, displaying scarcely any resemblance to its precursor. “Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link” continues the journey of the protagonist Link from the initial “Legend of Zelda” (LoZ1). He is tasked with restoring six Crystals in six respective Palaces, thereby reuniting the Triforce to revive Zelda. Failure would result in his enemies utilizing his blood to resurrect Ganon. This game distinguishes itself as it exhibits more traits of a Metroidvania than the open-world exploration of LoZ1 or its SNES successor “A Link to the Past.”
Rather than adhering to the traditional top-down perspective in exploration, this installment features side-scrolling gameplay. During encounters, Link gains experience points (EXP) that contribute to leveling up his Attack, Life, and Magic abilities. Interacting with non-player characters (NPCs) in villages provides perks or hidden gems, such as “I am Error!” quips. The overworld, where Link travels between locations, resembles the first game’s bird’s eye view. Although its gameplay didn’t gain widespread popularity, it significantly influenced the series by introducing features like conversing with locals and the initial appearance of Dark Link as a mirror-image adversary.
5 Oracle of Ages/Seasons
GameFAQs Score: 4.16/5 Stars
For an extended period, Link’s Awakening served as the most straightforward sequel to A Link to the Past. Later on, Nintendo collaborated with Capcom to create interconnected stories between these games, expanding A Link to the Past‘s adventures into a series, be it a trilogy or even a tetralogy. The Legend of Zelda: Oracles of Age and Oracle of Seasons, though distinct experiences, share a common narrative thread. In these games, Link is carried to a new realm via the Triforce’s power and is tasked with employing time travel or seasonal manipulation in order to thwart the antagonists Onox and Veran.
As a gamer, I’d put it this way: When I owned both games, I received a secret password that unlocked the true final battle. In this epic showdown, Link confronts Twinrova and Ganon. Compared to the first game in the series, these installments present enhanced gameplay with additional features such as sidequests, time/season shifting abilities, and unique items. However, acquiring these games was quite a challenge back then, as they were not easily available until they were added to the 3DS E-Shop in 2013 and Nintendo Switch Online in 2023. Now, players have the opportunity to enjoy Capcom’s interpretation of The Legend of Zelda series without having to spend a fortune.
4 Link’s Awakening
GameFAQs Score: 4.34/5 Stars
Despite the complexity of the “Oracles” series, “The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening” gained even greater affection. Originally intended as a port of “A Link to the Past” for the Game Boy, it transformed into an entirely new journey for ALttP’s Link once the technological challenge proved insurmountable. After his boat is wrecked, Link finds himself on Koholint Island, where he must awaken the Wind Fish by gathering musical instruments in order to return home. However, he remains uncertain about the consequences of this act for Koholint’s inhabitants, such as Marin, who had saved him from the shore earlier.
Although it was originally designed as a handheld game with just two buttons, “The Legend of Zelda” (LoZ) on the Game Boy managed to capture its enchanting puzzles and captivating story within a compact cartridge. Despite some limitations requiring frequent pauses and item swapping, its inventiveness shone through, particularly in its Game Boy Color port. The recent Switch remake addresses these concerns by eliminating the need for constant item switching and boasts a new art style. This revival breathes new life into the classic game with vibrant colors and 3D graphics, making it worthwhile for Nintendo to resurrect this beloved title in the upcoming “Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.”
3 Phantom Hourglass
Metascore: 90
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but reflect on my initial disappointment with the visual change in “The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker.” Its more cartoonish appearance seemed like a stark contrast to the grittier games that came before it. However, looking back, I’ve come to appreciate its unique charm and the gameplay that kept me engaged despite my initial reservations. The graphics, too, have held up surprisingly well over the past two decades. In fact, they might even outshine the eventually grungy, brown aesthetic of “Twilight Princess,” which became synonymous with the 2000s gaming scene. The Wind Waker’s story continued to unfold on the Nintendo DS in the form of “The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass.”
As a dedicated fan of the Legend of Zelda series, I can’t help but express my excitement about one particular adventure: Link teaming up with Captain Linebeck to save Tetra from the ominous Ghost Ship. This game masterfully utilized the DS’ touch screen for sailing and effectively used both screens for exploration. The Temple of the Ocean King brought a fresh challenge by blending the stealth sections of Twilight Princess with classic dungeon crawler-style gameplay. Each new item Link acquired opened up new possibilities, revealing hidden pathways. Furthermore, the strategic placement of safe spots provided much-needed respites for players to catch their breath. Whether it’s a standalone title or a prequel/sequel, this game is undeniably one of the best in the Legend of Zelda series.
2 Majora’s Mask
Metascore: 95
As a gamer, I’ve noticed that some sequels can feel repetitive, sticking closely to the formula of their predecessors until the gameplay feels stale. Even gaming giants like Nintendo have fallen into this trap (such as with “New Super Mario Bros”). However, they’ve also managed to keep things fresh by introducing new elements in their follow-ups. For instance, they took a radical approach with “The Adventures of Link,” and made subtle changes with games like “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask.”
In “The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask,” Link is tasked with saving Termina from impending doom caused by a moon that threatens to collide with the land within three days. While he retains his abilities from “Ocarina of Time,” he now relies on his Ocarina and an assortment of masks to accomplish his mission. This game, known for its eerie atmosphere and disturbing horror elements, is often considered a classic and a standout in the series due to its innovative mask-switching and time manipulation mechanics. Although some fans may favor the suspenseful cutscenes of “Twilight Princess” or the melancholic backstory of “Wind Waker,” the unique blend of tension, horror, and gameplay mechanics in “Majora’s Mask” sets it apart as a timeless classic in its own right.
1 Tears of the Kingdom
Metascore: 96
In contrast to previous Zelda installments, particularly those with a focus on dungeons and puzzles, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and its successor, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, have sparked intense debate among fans. The innovative features of these games, such as their expansive open-world design, stamina meters, cooking, and breakable weapons, represent a significant shift for some. Yet, this new approach has left many longtime fans feeling disconnected or disappointed if they preferred the more traditional gameplay mechanics.
In essence, the map of Hyrule remains familiar, populated by many of its previous inhabitants. However, new additions such as settlements, islands, and underwater realms bring fresh discoveries. Moreover, Link now possesses innovative abilities that allow him to craft Zonai gadgets or evade perilous situations, adding depth without feeling repetitive compared to “Breath of the Wild.” The intrigue lies in anticipating how the next installment will build upon these new elements.
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2024-07-15 00:16