10 useful items that need to return in a future Zelda game

There is a lot to love about The Legend of Zelda series. And one of the most iconic things about it is the bevy of fun and creative items. These are the weapons, tools, and upgrades that let the player solve puzzles and claim victory against Link’s unrelenting enemies.

While some items that have appeared in multiple games are now considered essentials for almost every adventure in Hyrule, there are many that have only seen limited use. Many of these weapons, even if updated slightly, have great utility and would be a treat to see again in a future Zelda game.

10. Bunny Hood

The Bunny Hood is arguably the most useful mask in Majora’s Mask. It grants Link improved speed and agility, allowing him to clear distances and jump over gaps faster and easier than he’s ever done before. And when trying to traverse the land of Termina while under a tight time restraint, speed is critical.

Extra mobility is always a great upgrade. The options to outmaneuver enemies or more easily clear obstacles can make any game more engaging. And in Zelda games, where the pace is typically moderate, even a small boost can have a big impact.

9. Whip

The last original game that the Whip appeared in was Skyward Sword in 2011. Before that, it had only been seen in Spirit Tracks. Though some fans might not believe it was the most dynamic tool in either game, it was still perfect for its intended purposes.

What also makes the Whip worth seeing again is its potential. There are a variety of uses for an item of its nature. Further experimentation in future games could lead to a type of Whip that is as useful to Link as the one seen in the Indiana Jones films.

8. Pegasus Boots

The Bunny Hood makes Link more mobile. The Pegasus Boots turn him into a living battering ram that can charge headfirst into an obstacle. So, while both items let Link move faster, the difference is that one helps him evade obstacles while the other lets him go through them.

With the scale of modern games, using Pegasus Boots to travel across large distances isn’t necessary. They would still be useful in tighter places, however. In a confined or indoor place, where something like a horse or Master Cycle can’t help, the boots could give Link that perfect chance to blast past danger.

7. Mirror Shield

The Mirror Shield last appeared in The Minish Cap in 2005. In that game and a few others, it served as Link’s ultimate defense. It has the ability to reflect light and certain magic attacks, and some versions are able to block flames. Plus, it routinely has some of the best shield designs in the series.

A shield that deflects, absorbs, and reflects attacks will always be a valuable addition in any Zelda game. This shield embodies the idea of “the best defense is a good offense.” It gives Link yet another way to outsmart his enemies and exploit their weaknesses.

6. Lens Of Truth

Sometimes, it’s the items that don’t actively do much that are most helpful. The Lens of Truth is a prime example. In Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, this magical relic allows Link to see the unseen. Hidden paths, invisible enemies, and secret treasure can no longer escape detection.

Having an item that shows invisible objects enables the creation of very complex and fun puzzle designs. In this case, an item’s uses aren’t necessarily the only important factors. What’s also important is its influence on the other parts of a game.

5. Switch Hook

The Hookshot (or Clawshot) routinely appears in Zelda games. It’s always useful, but there have been other items that use its design as inspiration. One of these is the surprisingly clever Switch Hook from Oracle of Ages.

The Switch Hook doesn’t simply help Link move from one place to another. It allows him to trade places with an object or enemy. The chances to think quickly and move from place to place while rearranging important objects, or even magically moving a problematic enemy that’s blocking Link’s path, could have endless applications if the item returned to the series.

4. Magic Armor

There have been a few different types of Magic Armor, but the version in question here is the one from The Wind Waker. In that game, the Magic Armor was a powerful barrier emitted by a strange jewel-like object. When activated, the barrier would cover Link’s entire body and protect him from taking damage.

A full-body magical defense that’s easy to turn on and off makes for a great tool when Link’s caught in a tense situation. The device consumes magic (or Rupees, in the case of The Wind Waker HD), so Link can’t leave it on at all times, but it’s there when he needs it.

3. Water Bomb

Link’s options for underwater actions are often limited. Some items let him use attacks, and equipping the Iron Boots allows him to land on the submerged ground to use his sword, but he’s still routinely at a disadvantage while submerged. He’s had one great, all-purpose equalizer though: the Water Bomb.

This item from Twilight Princess does as its name states: It sets off explosions while submerged. Bombs are always useful in Zelda games, but the regular ones don’t work when wet. With the Water Bombs, Link can enjoy a lot of the same explosive versatility underwater that he does on dry land.

2. Roc’s Feather

Pairing well with items such as the Bunny Hood and the Pegasus Boots is the Roc’s Feather. This item, and variants such as the Roc’s Cape, has appeared in various games, but it has not appeared in a new game in over 15 years. This is surprising, considering the viability of an item that can make Link challenge Mario for the title of Jumpman.

Having the ability to nimbly hop high into the air and drift from place to place has served Link well. Whether he’s needed to clear chasms or evade enemies, the Roc’s Feather has done a good job of keeping Link on the right path.

1. Elixir Soup

There have been many, many healing items in Zelda games, but none hit the sweet spot quite like the Elixir Soup. It’s powerful, but not too powerful. Link gets to feel incredible after scarfing down the tasty meal, but it doesn’t make him invincible or give him infinite magic or stamina.

Double the attack power until the first time he gets hit and a full recovery of hearts and magic — that’s what the Elixir Soup grants Link. It’s his ultimate secret weapon to help him surprise and overwhelm any adversary.