I’ve always loved Nintendo games like Pokemon Emerald, Fire Red, Mario Kart, and more on Gameboy, DS, and Wii, but I never really got into The Legend of Zelda series. I have an original 1993 Link’s Awakening cartridge, but it can’t save anymore, so I haven’t finished the game. Now, I want to dive into Zelda and am wondering where to start. I’ve heard both Link’s Awakening and Breath of the Wild are great entry points. On my Switch, I mainly play Hogwarts Legacy and Animal Crossing: New Horizons, which are quite different from each other. I also enjoy Mario Kart, Smash, Nintendo Sports, Luigi’s Mansion, Let’s Go Pikachu, and Kirby: Return to Dreamland. Given all this, which Zelda game would be a better starting point for me: the classic Link’s Awakening or the modern open-world Breath of the Wild?
4 Answers
If you’re into the series lore and story connections, starting with Breath of the Wild might not give you much of that, since it’s pretty standalone. Link’s Awakening offers a simple but charming story that’s easier to follow for newcomers. If you’re stuck with the old Link’s Awakening cart that can’t save, consider the Switch remake since it fixes that issue and adds some freshness. Also, if you have Nintendo Switch Online, maybe try out A Link to the Past or Ocarina of Time too, as they’re classic Zelda games that many fans recommend for beginners.
Honestly, it boils down to what kind of game vibe you want. Breath of the Wild feels like a sandbox where you can do almost anything and explore endlessly, which might be exciting if you enjoy freedom in gameplay. Link’s Awakening is more focused on puzzles and a crafted storyline with a classic Zelda charm. Since you’re into a mix of games, maybe try watching some gameplay videos of both to see which style clicks with you more.
Both games give you very different Zelda experiences. Link’s Awakening is more story-driven with solid worldbuilding, challenging dungeons, and great music. Breath of the Wild, on the other hand, is an open-world adventure with gorgeous environments where you can be really creative and explore at your own pace without feeling pushed toward a goal. Since you enjoy games like Hogwarts Legacy and Animal Crossing, Breath of the Wild might appeal to your love of exploration and freedom, but if you want something with a tighter story and classic Zelda feel, Link’s Awakening is fantastic too.
I say start with Link’s Awakening on Switch since your original cartridge can’t save; this way, you get the full game experience and finally complete it. Once you’re done, jumping into Breath of the Wild or the sequel Tears of the Kingdom would be a cool way to explore the modern Zelda world. The contrast between the two types of gameplay might help you appreciate the series even more.
Thanks for the tip about the remake and Switch Online classics! Might check those out too.