Daily Debate: What Is Your Favorite End Credits Sequence in a Zelda Game?
Posted on August 03 2024 by Nick Miller
Of all the characteristics that are shared among Zelda games, one that is often overlooked is the end credits. There always seems to be an extra level of care and attention given to what could otherwise be a boring formality, and for good reason. The end credits for any video game are the last thing we see of it (excluding post-game content), so an impactful credit sequencet helps leave the player with a more meaningful experience than just a black screen with a staff roll.
Starting with A Link to the Past, many Zelda games have taken on a tradition of showing the game’s world and characters in the aftermath of Link’s adventure. We get to see how our actions changed the outcome of characters’ lives, for better or worse. One memorable credit sequence is Ocarina of Time‘s, which shows the many citizens of Hyrule having a party, presumably to celebrate Ganon’s demise. The most exemplary of this type of credit sequence is probably found in Majora’s Mask, which shows the game’s extensive roster of characters celebrating after the moon is restored to the heavens. It also features a satisfying epilogue to Majora’s Mask‘s biggest side quest.
Another thing to consider is the music. The end credits of a Zelda game typically feature music that is a medley of familiar tunes. Some however, like Ocarina of Time or A Link Between Worlds, feature completely original songs that have songs from the game sprinkled throughout. One of the best, no doubt, is found in the remake for Link’s Awakening. The song that plays over the staff credits is a triumphant, sweeping orchestral piece that repeats a tune on various instruments, even including a snippet of the song as it was heard on the original Game Boy title. Then, all of the pieces join together for boisterous, awe-inspiring conclusion that leaves Link’s Awakening on a high note. Despite not having an epilogue like those featured in many other games — how could you in Link’s Awakening — the music alone makes it one of the most memorable credits in the series.
Now I want to know which end credits sequence is your favorite. What makes it your favorite? Are there any parts that are particularly memorable? Tell us all about it in the comments below.
Nick is a writer for Zelda Dungeon and a longtime fan of the Zelda franchise. In his free time, he enjoys fishing, archery, skateboarding, and some good ol’ fashioned family time. He’s an advocate for physical media and an avid video game collector. His favorite Zelda game is Ocarina of Time, though Breath of the Wild and the Link’s Awakening remake are close contenders. His other favorite video games series include Kingdom Hearts, Fallout, and Ratchet & Clank.
