The Legend of Zelda franchise, a cornerstone of gaming history, has seen a remarkable resurgence on the Nintendo Switch. Since its 1986 NES debut, the series, chronicling the heroic Link's battles to save Princess Zelda and Hyrule from Ganon, has consistently captivated players. The Switch, however, has propelled Zelda to unprecedented heights, thanks to the phenomenal success of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
With the recent release of Echoes of Wisdom, it's a perfect time to review the Switch's Zelda offerings. While future titles remain unannounced, the impending arrival of the Switch 2 promises further Hyrule adventures. Let's explore the eight Zelda games currently available on the Nintendo Switch:
Eight Zelda Games on Nintendo Switch:
This list comprises both core series entries and spin-offs released between 2017 and 2024. Nintendo Switch Online subscription titles are excluded.
Zelda Games by Release Date:
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (2017)
A revolutionary entry, Breath of the Wild redefined Zelda with its unprecedented open-world design. Link awakens after a century-long slumber to confront Calamity Ganon, a primordial evil threatening Hyrule. Explore a vast landscape, conquer challenges, and save Princess Zelda.
[Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.]
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition (2018)
This action-packed hack-and-slash title, originally for Wii U, features a vast roster of Zelda characters. The Definitive Edition for Switch includes all content from the original, plus Breath of the Wild-inspired costumes.
[Read our review of Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition.]
Cadence of Hyrule (2019)
A unique collaboration, blending the rhythm-based gameplay of Crypt of the NecroDancer with the Zelda universe. Featuring pixel art and a memorable soundtrack, players team up with Cadence to defeat the musical villain Octavo.
[Read our review of Cadence of Hyrule.]
The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening (2019)
A charming remake of the 1993 Game Boy classic. Shipwrecked on Koholint Island, Link must unravel the Wind Fish's mystery, exploring diverse dungeons and collecting the Instruments of the Sirens.
[Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening.]
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity (2020)
A prequel to Breath of the Wild, set 100 years prior to its events. Experience the battle against Calamity Ganon through the eyes of familiar characters. Features extensive gameplay and DLC.
[Read our review of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity.]
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD (2021)
A remastered version of the Wii classic. Journey through the skies and uncover the origins of the Master Sword in this early installment of the Zelda timeline. Offers both motion and button-only controls.
[Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD.]
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom (2023)
A direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, featuring an expansive world spanning both the surface and the skies of Hyrule. Link once again confronts the resurrected Ganondorf.
[Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.]
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom (2024)
The latest addition, featuring Princess Zelda as the protagonist in a unique 2D adventure. A full-fledged Zelda game with innovative gameplay mechanics.
[Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.]
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack:
Numerous classic Zelda titles are also accessible through this subscription service.
The Future of Zelda on Switch:
Echoes of Wisdom likely marks the final Zelda release before the Switch 2 launch. While backward compatibility details are still emerging, expect many of these titles to remain playable. A live-action Zelda movie is also in the works.
