It’s one of the most infamous temples from the entire Zelda series: Ocarina of Time’s Water Temple frequently makes it into people’s least favorite dungeons lists and causes them to grimace just from hearing its name. But does it really deserve such disdain? In many ways, yes, it does. However, to me, it’s for reasons…
I can think of few locations as epic to host a battle royale among gaming’s most iconic characters as high atop a castle overlooking the vast terrain far below. That’s why it is so exciting that Hyrule Castle is returning as an included stage in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, releasing this Friday. Let’s get ready to…
The forests of Hyrule are not to be trifled with, and the Lost Woods are the ultimate example of why. Mystical, magical, and nearly incomprehensible, no one, not even the natural residents of the forests, are able to take them lightly.
After defeating Queen Gohma and leaving Kokiri Forest, Link (and by extension, the player) truly sees how big the land of Hyrule is. As soon as the player enters the field, the camera pans across it. This not only shows how big the area is but also teases that there is even more of the…
There is something incredibly appealing about the water effects in Ocarina of Time, and the ability to enjoy them in a massive setting such as Lake Hylia has been appreciated by many gamers for decades. Most areas in Ocarina are a joy to explore, and the lake distinguishes itself as the most serene. When you enter…
After seven years of stasis, Link emerges from Rauru’s secret chamber and leaves the Temple of Time. Much to his horror, he sees that the bustling Town Square has become ruined in dissolution. The fountain where the kids once played has become a moaning ground for Redeads. The Hero of Time runs straight through the…
Towns were first seen in The Adventure of Link, and to be honest, they weren’t very good or interesting. There were a lot of forgettable locations and even more forgettable people (Error being the obvious exception). It’s just not what a Zelda game deserves. Move forward a few years to the A Link to the…
Recently, my Switch broke and I lost all of my save data for Breath of the Wild. However, this terrible loss also gave me the perfect excuse to start another playthrough of the game. Upon starting out, I realized that one of the best areas for resources happens to be the long stretch of beach…
In most Zelda games, Link has his own house, but there’s usually never much reason to visit it once you’ve discovered the vast world of Hyrule and all of its wonders. However, A Link Between Worlds does something a little bit different that pulls you back home. At first, Link’s house isn’t much to marvel at,…
The Lanaryu Providence is Hyrule’s largest region and is home to most some of the most memorable locations in Twilight Princess. One location, in particular, is quite small in relation to its home providence, but the mystery and intrigue surrounding it leave a massive impact. That place is the Hidden Village. Before you even step…
The villages and towns in Zelda games are some of my favorite areas to visit. They let you glimpse into the world’s culture and interact with charming characters, which gives the game its own unique personality. Plus, the towns are usually a good place to stock up on potions or arrows and find some minigames…
After a long grueling fight through Hyrule Castle, Link finds Zelda only to watch her disappear at the hands of Agahnim. He chases after the wizard and after a hard fight, Agahnim sends Link into the Dark World. Having grabbed the Moon Pearl from the Tower of Hera, Link is immune to the influence of…
As I’m sure I’ve mentioned on numerous occasions, The Wind Waker was my first Zelda game and remains one of my favorites to this day. There are so many exciting places to explore within the Great Sea, but my personal favorite is actually underneath it. Tingle’s Maps is a series in which we explore the endless…
The Lost Woods is a recurring place in Zelda games and one that any fan will recognize as a staple of the series. Even in the games in which it doesn’t appear, there are close variations, such as Link’s Awakening’s Mysterious Woods or Majora’s Mask’s Woods of Mystery. There’s a reason that this magical woodland theme keeps returning,…
The Private Oasis is a particularly special island in The Wind Waker. This quadrant is best known for the cabana, which awaits its master’s return. To gain access to it, Link must abuse Mrs. Marie’s obsession with jewelry — specifically, 20 Joy Pendants — to obtain the Cabana Deed. Other notables include a Big Octo with…
