The Legend of Zelda: Queer Representation in Video Games
The Legend of Zelda has a lot of queer representation. Whether or not Nintendo intended for it, The Legend of Zelda is a game series that tells queer stories. From its inception, the adventures of Link and Zelda have reflected the experiences of queer individuals, encouraging players to embrace their true selves, fight for what they believe in, and create a world where everyone can exist and be accepted.
Nintendo has a history of denying the presence of LGBTQ+ characters or themes in its games to avoid controversy or confrontation, but The Legend of Zelda series has always had queerness at its heart, whether that was always intended or not.
From its very first installment, The Legend of Zelda: The Legend of Zelda, being androgynous was a core aspect of the series’ design, with Link deliberately designed to be gender neutral to allow players to project themselves onto the game world. This sense of queerness continues throughout the series as the games encourage players to customize Link’s outfit, subverting traditional gender norms and embracing individual expression.
The narratives of each game in the series emphasize hope, understanding, and the power of togetherness. Zelda, the namesake of the series, is the thematic core of each new story, driving the adventure forward. From the very first game all the way through to Breath of the Wild, she is the protagonist around whom the story revolves. Even when she is absent, she is still the thematic centre, shaping each new tale.
Sheik, a character who helps Link in Ocarina of Time, serves as a trans allegory, breaking gender norms and defying expectations. Zelda herself undergoes various transformations, challenging traditional roles and representing the struggles and growth of queer individuals.
Throughout the series, The Legend of Zelda explores themes of courage, self-acceptance, and the desire to exist and be accepted. These are all things that resonate with LGBTQ+ individuals. The games tell stories of individuals who struggle to be seen and accepted, but who ultimately shape their own destinies.
Despite Nintendo’s reluctance to acknowledge queerness in its games, The Legend of Zelda has always been a queer series. It tells stories that many LGBTQ+ individuals have never had the opportunity to enjoy in other mediums. The sense of hope, understanding, and empowerment that The Legend of Zelda instills in its players is something that all gamers should appreciate and embrace, but especially those from the LGBTQ+ community.
If you’re ready to experience The Legend of Zelda for the first time, or you’re a big fan of the series and want to revisit some of its best games, check out our guide to The Legend of Zelda games. You might also want to try some of the best Legend of Zelda mods to enhance your experience. You might even like some of the other best indie games, if you’re looking for something a little different.
