Zelda Timeline: The Legend of Zelda series has captured the hearts of gamers for decades with its captivating narratives, intricate puzzles, and memorable characters. One aspect that has intrigued fans and sparked countless debates is the complex timeline that weaves through the various games. To help ease your journey through the rich tapestry of Hyrule’s history, here are 17 key facts to deepen your understanding of the Zelda timeline.
1. The Split Timeline:
The Zelda timeline splits into three branches after the events of “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.” These branches are known as the Child Link Timeline, Adult Link Timeline, and Decline Timeline.
2. Child Link Timeline:
When Link is sent back to his childhood after defeating Ganon in Ocarina of Time, it creates a timeline where Link warns Zelda about Ganondorf’s plans, leading to the events of “Majora’s Mask” and “Twilight Princess.”
3. Adult Link Timeline:
In the timeline where Link defeats Ganondorf as an adult, Hyrule is flooded to prevent Ganon’s return, setting the stage for “The Wind Waker,” “Phantom Hourglass,” and “Spirit Tracks.”
4. Decline Timeline:
If Link fails in Ocarina of Time, it results in the Decline Timeline, where “A Link to the Past,” “Oracle of Ages,” “Oracle of Seasons,” “A Link Between Worlds,” “Tri Force Heroes,” and the original “Legend of Zelda” take place.
5. Unified Timeline:
In “Hyrule Historia,” an official Zelda timeline book, a timeline convergence theory suggests that after the events of “A Link Between Worlds,” the timelines merge into a single Unified Timeline.
6. Breath of the Wild’s Placement:
“Breath of the Wild” is the latest addition to the series, and its placement in the timeline has been a subject of speculation. While it was initially believed to be at the end of one timeline, Nintendo has deliberately kept it ambiguous.
7. The Triforce and the Goddesses:
The Triforce, a powerful artifact representing Power, Wisdom, and Courage, plays a central role in the series. The goddesses Din, Nayru, and Farore created the Triforce, shaping the destiny of Hyrule.
8. The Legend of Demise:
Demise, the ancient evil force, is considered the origin of Ganon. His curse sets the stage for the perpetual battle between Link, Zelda, and Ganon throughout the ages.
9. Time Travel and Parallel Worlds:
Time travel and parallel worlds are recurring themes in the Zelda series. From the time manipulation in “Ocarina of Time” to the Dark World in “A Link to the Past,” these elements contribute to the complexity of the timeline.
10. The Twilight Realm:
“Twilight Princess” introduces the Twilight Realm, a parallel dimension, and the character Midna. This game sheds light on the existence of realms beyond Hyrule.
11. Master Sword:
Master Sword, often referred to as the “Sword of Evil’s Bane,” is a recurring weapon in the series. Its significance lies in its ability to repel evil and its connection to the chosen hero.
12. The Imprisoning War:
“A Link to the Past” is set against the backdrop of the Imprisoning War, a conflict sparked by Ganon’s return. This event marks a crucial point in Hyrule’s history.
13. The Sheikah and the Guardians:
“Breath of the Wild” introduces the Sheikah tribe and the ancient technology of the Guardians. These elements provide a glimpse into Hyrule’s distant past and its advanced civilization.
14. The Hero’s Shade:
In “Twilight Princess,” the Hero’s Shade is revealed to be the spirit of the Hero of Time, adding a layer of melancholy to Link’s legacy.
15. Ganon’s Resurrections:
Ganon, the series’ primary antagonist, has been resurrected multiple times, each instance posing a new threat to Hyrule. The continual cycle of his return is a recurring theme.
16. Majora’s Mask and Termina:
“Majora’s Mask” stands out as a unique entry, with Link journeying to Termina, a parallel world with its own set of challenges and characters.
17. The Tragic Tale of Link and Zelda:
The relationship between Link and Zelda is a recurring theme, often filled with tragedy, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of heroism.
The Legend of Zelda timeline is a vast and intricate tapestry, weaving together stories across centuries and dimensions. While it may seem daunting at first, understanding these 17 key facts will undoubtedly enhance your appreciation for the rich lore and history of Hyrule. As you embark on your next adventure in this beloved gaming universe, may your sword be sharp, your shield sturdy, and your knowledge of the timeline unwavering.
WRITTEN BY COLLINS
FAQs and answers
1. What is the Zelda timeline, and why is it so complex?
The Zelda timeline is a chronological order of events in The Legend of Zelda series, detailing how each game fits into the overarching lore. It is complex due to multiple timelines branching from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, leading to three distinct story paths: the Decline Timeline, Child Timeline, and Adult Timeline.
Reference: Zelda Dungeon – The Official Timeline
2. What are the three main branches of the Zelda timeline?
The Zelda timeline splits into three branches after Ocarina of Time:
- Adult Timeline – Link defeats Ganon, and Hyrule is flooded (The Wind Waker).
- Child Timeline – Link warns Zelda, preventing Ganondorf’s rise (Majora’s Mask).
- Decline Timeline – Link is defeated, and Ganon reigns (A Link to the Past).
Reference: Zelda Universe – Timeline Explained
3. Is Breath of the Wild part of the official Zelda timeline?
Nintendo has not officially confirmed Breath of the Wild’s placement, but it is believed to be at the end of all timelines due to its references to past Zelda games.
Reference: Nintendo – Breath of the Wild Timeline Speculation
4. What was the first game in the Zelda timeline?
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is the first game in the timeline, detailing the origins of the Master Sword and the eternal battle between Link, Zelda, and Demise (Ganondorf’s predecessor).
Reference: IGN – Zelda Timeline Order
5. How do Tears of the Kingdom affect the Zelda timeline?
Tears of the Kingdom continues the story of Breath of the Wild but has not been confirmed to be part of a specific timeline branch. Some fans speculate it resets or merges timelines.
Reference: GameSpot – Tears of the Kingdom Timeline Theory
6. Why do some Zelda games seem unrelated to the timeline?
Some Zelda games, like Link’s Awakening and Tri Force Heroes, have minimal connection to the main timeline due to their unique settings and self-contained stories.
Reference: Kotaku – Zelda’s Weirdest Games
7. Will Nintendo ever confirm a definitive timeline?
Nintendo has provided timeline details in Hyrule Historia and The Legend of Zelda Encyclopedia, but they intentionally keep the timeline flexible to allow creative freedom in future games.
Reference: Hyrule Historia – The Official Zelda Encyclopedia
