Ranking the combat systems of every Zelda game from worst to best
When it comes to battling through a bestiary of fantastical monsters, one of the true joys of playing a Zelda game is experiencing each game's unique combat system. While the basics of attacking with swords, bows, boomerangs, and bombs remain the same, each game in the series puts its own spin on combat. From clean and simple fighting to more complex systems that allow players to mix things up with different items, weapons, and combat moves, each Zelda game has its own approach. But which combat system is the best?
The Legend of Zelda (NES)
After ranking Zelda games from worst to best, it feels fitting to start with the beginning. The combat system in The Legend of Zelda on NES is understandably archaic, given that the game is over 35 years old. Armed with only a couple of swords and a bow, the combat can be a bit clunky. Enemies require multiple hits to defeat, and the need for rupees to purchase weapons and magic adds an additional challenge. To navigate through The Legend of Zelda without rupees, players must rely on their sword and shield while dodging attacks.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
No Zelda game has divided opinions on its combat system quite like Skyward Sword, but it's hard to deny that it introduced some great ideas into the series. The Adventure of Link's combat system, while not the worst, shares similarities with A Link to the Past but improves upon it. Players have a wider range of moves and blocking becomes an effective counter-attack strategy. However, the combat system also has its frustrations. The game's difficulty level and counterintuitive design choices, such as the inability to jump and attack simultaneously, and accidentally using the shield instead of attacking, can be frustrating. Managing stamina and dealing with multiple enemies can also pose challenges.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
When it comes to Zelda's combat systems, the games often shine when they are the most complex. Ocarina of Time successfully transitioned the series into the third dimension, providing a combat system with nuance. Majora's Mask takes the core elements of Ocarina of Time's combat mechanics and adds a variety of masks with unique abilities. Whether transforming into a Goron, Zora, Deku Scrub, or a hopping bunny rabbit with the bunny mask, Majora's Mask offers entertaining combat options.
The Minish Cap
When it comes to combat, The Minish Cap stands out among the other 2D Zeldas. This top-down Zelda game takes combat into account at every turn. Players must plan their attacks carefully to avoid harming civilians while fighting enemies. The use of items in combat adds another layer of strategy, but players must be cautious not to accidentally blow up barrels containing friendly fairies.
The Wind Waker
The Wind Waker takes 3D Zelda combat to a new level, offering a game that is both easy to pick up and play while providing depth. Combat is relatively simple, but players can mix things up by utilizing items like the bow, boomerang, and bombs. The Wind Waker also introduces fantastic finishing moves, such as the iconic Hero's Sword in the stone cutscene, and the ability to leap off enemies' backs and attack them mid-air. Additionally, the sword can be used as a torch to light up dark rooms, enhancing the immersion.
Twilight Princess
Twilight Princess strikes a near-perfect balance between accessibility and complexity in its combat system. It is more complex than The Wind Waker but simpler than Skyward Sword. The menu-based combat system is easy to understand and offers various ways to attack. Twilight Princess doesn't hold the player's hand, allowing for experimentation with different weapons and items to find the most effective strategies.
