As of February 2025, the Nintendo Switch boasts an extensive collection of “The Legend of Zelda” games, ranging from classic adventures to modern masterpieces. Whether you are a longtime fan or a newcomer to the series, the Switch provides access to some of the most iconic titles in gaming history.
Games
Mainline Zelda Titles on Nintendo Switch
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
A revolutionary open-world experience, “Breath of the Wild” redefined the Zelda franchise. Players explore the vast kingdom of Hyrule, solving puzzles, battling formidable enemies, and uncovering secrets. This critically acclaimed title introduced survival mechanics, weapon durability, and an open-ended gameplay structure that allows players to approach challenges in countless ways.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (2019)
This faithful remake of the 1993 Game Boy classic presents a charming, toy-like art style. “Link’s Awakening” follows Link as he navigates the mysterious Koholint Island, solving intricate dungeons and meeting quirky characters. The game includes new quality-of-life improvements and a dungeon builder feature for added replayability.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD (2021)
Originally released on the Wii, “Skyward Sword HD” is a remastered version featuring improved motion controls and a streamlined gameplay experience. This title delves into the origins of the Master Sword and the eternal battle between good and evil, offering a deep and engaging storyline.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023)
As a direct sequel to “Breath of the Wild,” “Tears of the Kingdom” expands the open world with new sky islands, powerful new abilities, and a deeper narrative. The game introduces elements like fusing weapons, manipulating time, and constructing custom vehicles, adding fresh layers of complexity to the gameplay.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (2024)
For the first time in franchise history, players take on the role of Princess Zelda as she embarks on her own adventure. “Echoes of Wisdom” explores Zelda’s abilities in a way never seen before, allowing for unique problem-solving and combat mechanics that enrich the lore of the Zelda universe.
Spin-offs and Zelda-Themed Games on Nintendo Switch
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition (2018)
A thrilling hack-and-slash title that brings together characters from various Zelda games, “Hyrule Warriors” delivers fast-paced action and large-scale battles against hordes of enemies. The Definitive Edition includes all previous DLC, offering a comprehensive experience.
Cadence of Hyrule: Crypt of the NecroDancer Featuring The Legend of Zelda (2019)
A unique fusion of rhythm-based gameplay and Zelda mechanics, “Cadence of Hyrule” requires players to move and attack to the beat of the music. With procedurally generated dungeons and a fantastic soundtrack, this game offers a fresh take on the franchise.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity (2020)
Set 100 years before “Breath of the Wild,” “Age of Calamity” explores the events leading up to the Great Calamity. With a mix of action-packed combat and character-driven storytelling, this prequel provides deeper insights into Hyrule’s past.
Classic Zelda Games Available via Nintendo Switch Online
With a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, players gain access to a rich catalog of classic Zelda games. Some titles require the Expansion Pack for access.
NES Titles:
- The Legend of Zelda (1986) – The original game that introduced players to Hyrule, dungeons, and the legendary Triforce.
- Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987) – A unique side-scrolling RPG with challenging mechanics and an expanded combat system.
SNES Titles:
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (1991) – A fan-favorite that introduced the Light and Dark Worlds concept, influencing many future Zelda games.
Game Boy & Game Boy Color Titles:
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening DX (1993) – An enhanced version of “Link’s Awakening” with added color and exclusive content.
- The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages & Oracle of Seasons (2001) – Two interconnected adventures featuring unique time-travel and seasonal mechanics.
Nintendo 64 Titles:
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) – One of the greatest games of all time, pioneering 3D action-adventure gameplay.
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (2000) – A darker, time-based sequel with deep storytelling and unique mask-based transformations.
Game Boy Advance Titles:
- The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap (2004) – A charming entry where Link gains the ability to shrink in size, unlocking creative puzzle-solving opportunities.
Nintendo Switch continues to be the ultimate platform for “The Legend of Zelda” fans, offering a vast selection of mainline adventures, spin-offs, and classic titles. Whether you seek the open-ended exploration of “Breath of the Wild” or the nostalgia of “A Link to the Past,” there is a Zelda game for every kind of player. With more potential releases and remakes on the horizon, the legacy of Hyrule remains as strong as ever.
