Best Zelda Games Ever!

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This top ten Zelda games feature could be used as a buyer's guide but if we have some advice for anyone considering buying their first Zelda game it would be: buy them all! Apart from maybe Zelda II.

Seriously, with perhaps the exception of the first two Zelda games (and even then, the first one is worth playing just to see how the series began), every Zelda adventure is essential. Which is why when we asked you what your favourite Zelda game ever is, there were many different answers. So, the winner might be a bit obvious but it was closer than you think. Will it still be number one this time next year?

Oracle Of Ages

10. The Legend Of Zelda: Oracle Of Ages/Seasons
Game Boy Color, 2001
We say: Considering GBA was already out, it seemed a bit odd for Nintendo to release two new Zelda games for Game Boy on the same day in October 2001. Yet the plan worked as Capcom developed two marvellous adventures. Oracle Of Ages featured more puzzles while Seasons focused more on combat. Both were brilliant.

You say: The games were brilliantly made, there was a lovely diversity of items and the musical score wasn't too shabby either. They were both pretty long and there were side-quests to keep me entertained. - Goldblade

Phantom Hourglass

9. The Legend Of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
DS, 2007
We say: The DS equivalent of Wind Waker. With wonderful visuals, some great dungeons and superb controls, this was Link's greatest top-down adventure since Link To The Past on the SNES. Until Spirit Tracks came long...

You say: It's a great game and even though I have completed it I really want to play it again and get all the extras. Safe to say that it's got replay value. It's a must play game if you're a fan of the series. - Novos

Minish Cap

8. The Legend Of Zelda: Minish Cap
GBA, 2004
We say: After the massive Link To The Past came to GBA, Capcom's effort seemed a bit short but it's another classic Zelda adventure and the shrink link gimmick is worth the entry price alone.

You say: For me the Minish Cap is the best I've played. Sure it's short and a little on the easy side but the story is great and just keeps you enthralled to the end. Loved it. - KMcD

Spirit Tracks

7. Legend Of Zelda: Spirit Tracks
DS, 2009
We say: A step up from Phantom Hourglass. It may have similar gameplay but riding the train rather than the boat is fun and the opportunity to take control of Princess Zelda for the first time is not one to be missed. Another high quality, relentlessly enjoyable game.

You say: This completely blows Phantom Hourglass out of the water. Driving a train is surprisingly more entertaining than I thought. Especially the skull train... - DragonOnSteroids

Link To The Past

6. Legend Of Zelda: A Link To The Past
SNES, 1992
We say: The game that turned Link into Nintendo's second superstar. Introducing multi-level dungeons, heart containers, the hookshot, the master sword and parallel worlds, it is not only one of the most important Zelda adventures ever but it's also one of the most gripping.

You say: It was the game that introduced many of the trademark Zelda items that we know today, such as the Master Sword, and it was quite challenging at times but remained fun throughout. - 91nintendo

Link's Awakening

5. Legend Of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Game Boy, 1993
We say: A world map that could contend with the one found in A Link to the Past. Every screen packed with familiar friends, evil monsters and mysterious secrets. Eight dungeons. New and classic items. A storyline that lingered long after the final credits rolled. Simply jaw-dropping.

You say: This one is a little obscure. But frankly, it's probably the best handheld Zelda game out. The Mario cameos were giggle-inducing, the dungeons and bosses were infuriatingly challenging, and above all, it had a humungous overworld for a Gameboy game. - Kingconnor

Majora's Mask

4. Legend Of Zelda: Majora's Mask
N64, 2000
We say: Although it's Ocarina Of Time that is often seen as the jewel in the Zelda crown, there are many that would argue that Majora's Mask is the superior title. While the former can be seen as a simple 3D update of the gameplay ideals set out in Link To The Past, it was Majora's Mask that brought new complexity and darkness to the series.

You say: This is my favourite game of all time. It's one of the only adventures of this kind where the main quest isn't to save an individual. Plus, it is so dark and moody that often I felt very anxious and desperately sad for the characters and the location. - rameses08

Wind Waker

3. Legend Of Zelda: Wind Waker
GameCube, 2002
We say: The cel-shaded visuals angered cynics when Wind Waker was first unveiled, but when the game was released, no on ecould deny that this is another stunning Zelda adventure packed with emotion and charm.

You say: It's the best of the Zelda bunch, with so much to explore and so much to do. Link has lots of personality, the music is flawless and the amount of side-quests is boggling. Truly a Zelda masterpiece. - Mr Resettio

Twilight Princess

2. Legend Of Zelda: Twilight Princess
Wii, 2006
We say: As one of the most well-rounded, charming and utterly captivating games we've ever played, Twilight Princess is a game that everyone must experience, regardless of gaming preference.

You say: Often criticised for it's lack of originality, I've always seen Twilight Princess as a package that contains all of the series' brilliance rolled into one game. It contains all of the factors that makes Zelda fantastic while adding in some new concepts of its own. This is the definite Zelda experience and an undeniably epic adventure. - BADGERGAMER

Ocarina Of Time

1. Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina Of Time
N64, 1998
We say: Surprised? Thought not. Ocarina is an obvious choice but there's a reason for that. The game that ushered Link into the 3D era was and still is a stunning adventure. It also features one of the most memorable soundtracks, one of the greatest storylines and some of the most well-rounded characters in gaming.

You say: Along with Super Mario 64, this revolutionised 3D gaming. This game is near-perfect in every way with great music, gameplay, and a beautiful storyline. It's also the undisputed highlight of the series. A masterpiece. - pikarich

Do you agree with your fellow gamer's choices? Let us know in the comments thread below...

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