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In this retrospective, we dive deep into the intricate history and timeline of The Legend of Zelda series, analyzing how various titles interconnect within the lore of Hyrule. Given the absence of an official timeline from Nintendo, we present our theories on how the games fit together, offering insights that may prompt fresh discussions among fans.
The Creation of Hyrule
The history of Hyrule begins with the creation of the world by the three goddesses: Din, Nayru, and Farore. After crafting this fantasy realm, they left behind the Triforce and the Sacred Realm—a void created where they crossed dimensions. This background is revealed during a cutscene in Ocarina of Time.
As the world developed, sages emerged and constructed temples, including the iconic Temple of Time and the Master Sword, to protect the Triforce. However, conflict arose among the races of Hyrule as they vied for the Triforce, leading to the creation of the Picori Sword by the Minish. This sword was given to Gustaf, a green-clad hero, who brought an end to the war and was later crowned king of Hyrule.
Minish Cap: The Beginning of the Timeline
The Minish Cap for the Game Boy Advance is often considered the earliest title in the timeline by many fans and theories. The game's opening sequence mentions the Picori granting their sword to the hero of men—not the Hero of Time—hinting at Gustaf’s identity. The protagonist Link, who begins the adventure without a hat, is crowned with a green cap, which becomes a staple for future heroes.
Ocarina of Time: The Rise of Ganondorf
Following Minish Cap, Ocarina of Time introduces Ganondorf, who initially conceals his evil intentions while searching for the Sacred Realm to gain power over Hyrule. The king of Hyrule, unaware of Ganondorf’s true nature, assists him in finding the realm. Despite the chaos, Ocarina of Time is often regarded as the pivotal story of the series, leading to speculation about its placement within the overall timeline.
The Split Timeline Theory
After the events of Ocarina of Time, the timeline splits into two branches. When Link defeats Ganon as an adult and is sent back to his childhood, we are left with two distinct Hyrules:
Hyrule A: Where Link and Zelda are children and can thwart Ganondorf’s plans before he takes power.
Hyrule B: The adult world where Ganon has been defeated but where he still poses a threat.
From Hyrule A, Link travels into Majora’s Mask, then into Link’s Awakening, which is rumored to be a dream. Link’s Awakening culminates in a confrontation with a nightmarish creature resembling Ganon, revealing Link’s fears and foreshadowing the challenges ahead.
The Original Legend of Zelda and Beyond
In Hyrule B, following the events of Link’s Awakening, Link must reclaim his armor and weapons to stop Ganon once more in the original Legend of Zelda for the NES. During Link’s absence, the citizens of Hyrule fled north, explaining the lack of settlements in the overworld map.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
Zelda II takes place several years later, introducing players to the backstory of Zelda’s lineage and the consequences of the battle for the Triforce. Here, Link learns of the original Princess Zelda, who has been placed in a deep sleep by her brother, thus enriching the lore surrounding the royal family.
The Evolution of the Timeline
Continuing through the timeline, Four Swords Adventures occurs with either new characters or the same duo from Ocarina of Time. Following this, A Link to the Past suggests that the evil sealed by the sages from a previous era has returned. Meanwhile, Wind Waker carries the story into a post-apocalyptic world where Link must rediscover the Triforce.
Oracle Games and Their Significance
The Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons games, released on the same day, further complicate the timeline. Both games feature Link’s quest involving the Triforce, yet their narratives unfold simultaneously in parallel worlds, supporting the split timeline theory.
Conclusion
The intricate web of timelines and lore within The Legend of Zelda franchise has led to passionate discussions and theories among fans. As long as the Triforce exists, the battle between good and evil in Hyrule will continue, with each new game adding layers to this legendary tale.
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