Daily Debate: What Does the Zelda Series Do Best?

Posted on August 20 2024 by Judy Cooper

The Zelda series has proved time and time again that its formula equals success. It has a timeless story that’s so good it can be recycled over and over again. It has charming, well-designed characters that are easy to love, and to hate. The series boasts innovative gameplay mechanics that keep the player interested in each passing installment. It even has stunning soundtrack after stunning soundtrack to keep fans engaged. But what, out of all things mentioned here and more, does the Zelda series do best?

For me, I’d say the answer is world-building. Each iteration of Hyrule is beautiful and fantastical and I’m sucked in by how it looks and sounds. I know this answer is verging on cheating, since world-building encompasses the characters within the world, how you move within the arena, as well as the sights and sounds around you, meaning I’m not doing too well at narrowing things down.

If I did need to get into the nitty-gritty of things, I’ll highlight the characters as the second thing the Zelda series does best. I love Link and his courageous heroism. I’ve fallen in love with the strength Zelda has shown in more recent games. Even Ganondorf, with his evil intentions, captures my interest. Each iteration of these characters grabs my attention, and I want to see how they fare in each tale. Of course, there are other characters that are absolutely fantastic, like Impa and Groose from Skyward Sword, or Midna from Twilight Princess, and others that I’d spend too long listing out. But certainly, characters has to be up there with the things that Zelda does best.

So, what do you think the Zelda series does best? Is it anything I’ve mentioned above, or is it something more simple, like weapons inventory, or progress and pacing? Let us know in the comments below!