Daily Debate: What Makes Your Most Played Zelda Game So Replayable?

It’s crazy to think about how much of my life has been spent replaying Zelda games rather than exercising, studying, or, most importantly, playing new video games. Indeed, there’s just something about this series that calls me back at least a couple of times each year. So, let’s explore that today. When thinking back on which of the Hylian Hero’s quests you’ve played the most, what do you think it is that keeps you coming back?

Keep in mind, too, that I’m not necessarily asking why your favorite Zelda game is your favorite. For instance, Kill Bill is my all-time favorite movie, but I can think of quite a few films I’ve seen more times. Having said that, in my case, Twilight Princess — my favorite Zelda entry — also happens to be the one I’ve played most often. Certainly, people replay games for different reasons than others would. Additionally, the “why“ behind revisiting said game depends on, well, the game.

Considering how much of a cakewalk Twilight Princess is, I wouldn’t go back to it for the same reason I might replay a punishingly difficult, old-school Fire Emblem title. And unlike Breath of the Wild, which people are still discovering new things about, there isn’t a ton of new stuff left for me to experience in Twilight Princess. Aside from collecting all of the Poe Souls — forgive me! — I’ve seen just about everything there is to see in that game.

For me, revisiting this adventure is like going back to a favorite film or anime. Even though I’ve memorized so much of it to an obnoxious degree, I still play through the game once a year because of how much I love being in that world. The dungeons’ thick atmosphere, the simple yet satisfying boss fights, the timeless story of a princess-turned-imp reclaiming her throne from an entitled manchild — it gets me every time.

Again, though, I want to hear from you all. What is it that calls you back to whichever Zelda title you’ve played most? Let us know in the comments below!