The Legend

The Legend of Zelda is one of the world's most famous and respected video game series. There are not many gamers who talk about Zelda without a sense of respect, and even those who are not fans acknowledge the many contributions that Zelda has made to the world of gaming.

If you're new to the Zelda series then you're in for an awesome adventure! It all started in 1986 when Nintendo made a game called The Legend of Zelda. Back then, they probably had no idea that it was the beginning of one of the most successful video game series of all time. The Zelda series still continues to this day, and on top of all of the games and spin-off games, it has also has a TV show, comics, toys, merchandise, novels and a strong following of fans. The games have been best sellers and record breakers, and each new release is highly anticipated. Each game has a strong tradition of raising the quality level for video games at the time, whether it be for the sound, scenery, or even battle techniques. The characters Zelda, Ganon and Link are recognised all over the world and are some of gamings most iconic figures.

It began with a familiar storyline - bad guy captures princess, hero defeats bad guy and rescues princess - but there was much more to it than that, and this is what set it apart from other similar games. The world of Hyrule, where most of the action takes place, is a beautiful land full of many myths and legends. In order to rescue the princess Zelda, Link must learn the myth of the mysterious Triforce, and discover its power. He meets many interesting and varied characters during his quests. Even when Link left Hyrule, in a few of the games, he is taken to another land which has its own hidden secrets and perils. Not only do the games involve huge battles with many dangerous and savage enemies, there are also puzzles and riddles to solve, legends to learn, as well as people to help and a land to save.

One of the reasons for the huge popularity of the games is that they offer something for everybody. Children love some of the comical characters and the fantasy worlds, but adults also enjoy the challenges and adventure put forth in the games. In a single game there can be humor, horror, suspense, action, adventure, sadness and fantasy. The characters are varied, and have distinct personalities. Players find themselves loving and hating characters in the games, just like in real life.

Exclusive makers of the series, Nintendo, have put a tremendous amount of effort and detail into the games to ensure the highest quality, and this is what makes them so special. Right down to the gold game cartridges and beautifully illustrated instruction manuals, to the myths and stories that draw players into the game that they are playing, each game becomes more than just a game to many, many players.

As of April 2003, worldwide sales of the Legend of Zelda series had surpassed over 36 million software units.