Zelda Games That Deserve Nintendo Switch Ports

Key Takeaways

Certain Zelda games are overdue a port to the Switch.
A Link Between Worlds adds new mechanics to revitalize gameplay.
Four Swords Adventures allow multiplayer gameplay, perfect for modern gamers.

As a long-time Zelda fan, I can’t help but feel a pang of nostalgia when I look at that beautiful image of Link sailing across Hyrule’s seas. The Legend of Zelda series has been a constant companion throughout my life, and there are still so many adventures to be had in its vast, fantastical world.

One of the timeless gaming series known as “The Legend of Zelda” is typically based in the imaginary land of Hyrule, where the protagonist Link usually embarks on a mission to rescue his kingdom and its princess. While some games deviate from this theme, the majority follow this pattern. With each new Nintendo console, fans receive fresh adventures to explore, but this means that classic titles can sometimes be overlooked or left behind.

Nintendo frequently remakes or updates its older games, and sometimes these classic “Zelda” titles are also released on newer consoles, allowing players another opportunity to experience them. Some examples include “Wind Waker” and “Skyward Sword,” with many others accessible through the Switch’s online subscription service. Despite the wide variety of available “Zelda” games, there are still a handful that would benefit from being ported to the latest console.

5 The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass

Another Sea-Faring Adventure for Wind Waker Fans

In many instances, the Zelda series ventures onto portable gaming systems, and it was on the Nintendo DS where we encountered Phantom Hourglass, a sequel to Wind Waker. Link finds himself sailing the vast seas of Hyrule once more, this time accompanied by his new pirate companions. However, during one voyage, they come across a ghost ship that Tetra boards after hearing cries for help. Unfortunately, Link fails to pursue her and ends up on Mercay Island instead. There, he allies with Captain Linebeck in an attempt to save Tetra, though it becomes apparent that Linebeck’s motivations are primarily driven by gold and fame rather than altruism.

In many Zelda games, you’ll find a similar narrative, but Phantom Hourglass manages to feel unique and innovative rather than derivative or repetitive. It introduces fresh characters and a new main antagonist, making it stand out. As a sequel to Wind Waker, it maintains its own distinct identity, earning respect for its originality, especially given its direct continuation of the storyline.

4 The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

Jump Between 2D and 2D to Prevent Ganon’s Resurrection

In the universe of Zelda, it’s not just Hyrule that exists, and there are times when Link encounters other realms. These instances often find him carrying the burden of being the hero that every citizen relies upon. This is particularly evident in the game A Link Between Worlds, where an evil sorcerer named Yuga captures Zelda and transports her to the kingdom of Lorule, intending to seize the Sages and revive Ganon by harnessing their powers.

Without a doubt, Link won’t stand idly by while this occurs; instead, he jumps into the mirror world immediately to put a stop to Yuga. Similar to many Zelda games, Link is given tasks such as exploring dungeons, vanquishing bosses, and unraveling puzzles throughout his adventure. However, A Link Between Worlds brings a fresh twist to the series’ conventional gameplay by incorporating a new mechanic involving a magical bracelet. This allows Link to transition between being a three-dimensional character and a two-dimensional painting, a skill crucial for solving specific dungeons and puzzles.

3 The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks

Work With Zelda to Defeat a Demon King

In this game, the significant spirit paths, known by their name, play a crucial role. These paths not only serve as Link’s means of traversing New Hyrule, but they are vital for keeping the Demon King Malladus imprisoned within the Tower of Spirits. Regrettably, these paths are disappearing, and Zelda fears this could result in Malladus’s release. Consequently, she embarks on a journey with Link to examine the Tower, where she encounters her trusted Chancellor. In an unexpected turn of events, he separates Zelda’s spirit from her physical body. Subsequently, she inhabits a ghostly entity to assist Link in his quest.

In most games, it’s quite uncommon for Link and Zelda to work together for the entire game. However, doing so in Spirit Tracks is refreshing, and it could potentially pave the way for multiplayer modes if adapted for the Nintendo Switch.

2 The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures

A Chance to Bring Back Cooperative Multiplayer to Mainstream Zelda

In my gaming world, there’s nothing more effective than four blades to thwart the sinister schemes of an evil mage and his shadowy duplicate! That’s right, I’m talking about Four Swords Adventures. This time around, the wicked Vaati, aided by Shadow Link, has managed to wreak havoc on the tranquil and enchanting land of Hyrule. But fear not, for it’s now four Links united against their malevolent doppelganger and the nefarious mage! Together, we must restore peace to Hyrule once more.

As an ardent fan, I can’t help but reminisce about the thrill of “Four Swords Adventures” where we each controlled a Link, traversing through Hyrulean Adventure together. But what truly made this game stand out was the Shadow Battle mode, a PVP battle feature that let us engage in fierce duels until only one Link remained. With online gaming continuing to captivate audiences worldwide, “Four Swords Adventures” is the ideal candidate for a modern revival on a platform like the Nintendo Switch.

1 The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess

A Darker Adventure

One highly praised installments of the Zelda series, specifically Twilight Princess, was launched on Gamecube and Nintendo Wii consoles. In this adventure, Hyrule’s kingdom is under attack by a shadowy realm called the Twilight Realm, gradually seeping into the world through its dark reflection. Accompanied by an imp named Midna, Link journeys through multiple worlds assuming both human and wolf personas to tackle challenges, delve into dungeons, investigate mysteries, and vanquish adversaries.

Among the top-tier and exceptionally good Zelda games, Twilight Princess stands out as one that warrants rediscovery. A Switch port would undoubtedly facilitate this. Until we get a new Zelda game, Twilight Princess makes an ideal choice to bridge the gap.

2024-10-05 23:44