Zelda Wiki

Want to contribute to this wiki?
Sign up for an account, and get started!

Come join the Zelda Wiki community Discord server!

READ MORE

Zelda Wiki
Register
 
 
Line 1: Line 1:
{{Featured}}
 
{{Character
 
|name = Princess Zelda
 
|image = {{RandomZeldaImage}}
 
|title = Princess of Hyrule<ref name=triforceoot/><ref name=tmc/><br>Princess of Destiny<ref name=destiny/><br>Hyrule Princess<br>Leader of the Sages<ref name=triforceoot/><br>Seventh Sage<ref name=triforceoot/><br>Oracle of Hope
 
|race= [[Hylian]]
 
|gender = Female
 
|first game = ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]''
 
|latest game =
 
|family = <small>''The Adventure of Link:''</small><br>[[King of Hyrule (The Adventure of Link)|King of Hyrule]] <small>(father)</small><br>[[Prince of Hyrule]] <small>(brother)</small><br><small>''Valiant Comics & CD-i Games:''</small><br>[[Harkinian]] <small>(father)</small><br><small>''A Link to the Past:''</small><br>[[Royal Family of Hyrule#A Link to the Past|Un-named King]] <small>(father)</small><br><small>''Ocarina of Time:''</small><br>[[Royal Family of Hyrule#Ocarina of Time|King]] <small>(father)</small><br><small>''The Wind Waker:''</small><br>[[Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule]]<br>[[Tetra's Mother|Mother]]<br><small>''The Minish Cap:''</small><br>[[King Daltus]] <small>(father)</small><br>[[King Gustaf]] <small>(ancestor)</small>
 
|voice actor(s)=- [[Wikipedia:Cynthia Preston|Cynthia Preston]] (animated shorts)<br>- [[Wikipedia:Jun Mizusawa|Jun Mizusawa]] (''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'', ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'')<br>- [[Wikipedia:Hikari Tachibana|Hikari Tachibana]] (''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'')
 
}}
 
'''Princess Zelda''' ({{HylianTP|Zelda}}) is the [[Wikipedia:Eponym|eponymous]] character of [[The Legend of Zelda (Series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' series]]. Similar to [[Link]], the protagonist of the series, Zelda has had many incarnations throughout the series. Princess Zelda has been depicted at various ages depending upon which title she appears in. She has appeared as child, a teenager, and as a young adult; for example, Princess Zelda in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'' is around 20 years of age.<ref>{{Cite|Hodgson, D. & Stratton, S. (2006).|The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (Wii Version) -- Collector's Edition [Hardcover] Prima Games. ISBN 0761555730| http://www.thehylia.com/media/albums/TP%20Prima%20Guide/0016.jpg excerpt}}</ref>
 
 
Zelda is invariably the [[Wikipedia:Crown prince|crown princess]] of [[Hyrule]] in whichever time period she appears.<ref name=triforceoot>{{cite|And the other, who holds the Triforce of Wisdom...is the seventh Sage, who is destined to be the leader of them all... It is I, the Princess of Hyrule, Zelda.|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref name=tmc>{{cite manual|quote=Princess Zelda / The princess of Hyrule and a longtime friend of Link.|game=The Minish Cap|page=5}}</ref><ref>{{cite manual|quote=Princess Zelda / The King's daughter, Hyrule's princess.|game=Ocarina of Time|page=7}}</ref><ref name=loz>{{cite manual|quote=Fearing his wicked rule, Zelda, the princess of this kingdom, split up the Triforce of Wisdom into eight fragments and hid them throughout the realm to save the last remaining Triforce from the clutches of the evil Ganon.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=3}}</ref><ref>{{cite|You are the true heir of the royal family of Hyrule...the last link in the bloodline.|King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule|The Wind Waker}}</ref> She is also the possessor of the [[Triforce#Triforce of Wisdom|Triforce of Wisdom]], imbued with the essence of the Goddess [[Nayru (Goddess)|Nayru]].<ref name=triforceoot/><ref name=triforcetp>{{cite|Like you, I have been granted special powers by the goddesses...|Princess Zelda|Twilight Princess}}</ref><ref>{{cite|This necklace you wear is part of a sacred treasure called the Triforce of Wisdom, which has been passed down for many ages within the royal family of Hyrule.|King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule|The Wind Waker}}</ref> The essence of Nayru affords Zelda divine wisdom, allowing her to discern the wisest decisions, especially in situations concerning the welfare of Hyrule. It also grants her a myriad of mystical abilities, including the ability to heal others.
 
 
[[Shigeru Miyamoto]] has stated that the name ''Princess Zelda'' originated from Zelda Fitzgerald, the wife of acclaimed author, F. Scott Fitzgerald.<ref>[http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/feature/-/117177/ Amazon.com interview with Shigeru Miyamoto]</ref> American Actor Robin Williams named his daughter Zelda due to his love of the ''Zelda'' video games.<ref>[http://www.switched.com/2008/07/07/robin-williams-daughter-zelda-is-cooler-than-her-dad I'm a videogame junkie. What'd you expect from a kid named after one?"]</ref>
 
 
{{OTOC}}
 
{{clear|left}}
 
{{spoiler}}
 
==Characteristics==
 
Princess Zelda perennially has a charming nature, and despite her age, possesses great wisdom. Her nature is that of a just, compassionate, graceful, and self-sacrificing person.<ref>{{cite|Everything that's happened to you and your poor sister... It's all been my fault....I'm so sorry.|Princess Zelda|The Wind Waker}}</ref><ref>{{cite|All the tragedy that has befallen Hyrule was my doing... I was so young...I could not comprehend the consequences of trying to control the Sacred Realm. I dragged you into it, too. Now it is time for me to make up for my mistakes...|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> Zelda's most prominent display of compassion and selflessness was when she saved the life of [[Midna]], the Princess of the [[Twilight Realm]], who had been nearly killed by the false King of the Twilight, [[Zant]].<ref name=midna>{{cite|Despite your mortal injuries, you act in our stead... These dark times are the result of our deeds, yet it is you who have reaped the penalty. Accept this now, Midna. I pass it to you...|Princess Zelda|Twilight Princess}}</ref> Zelda's wisdom is her most valuable attribute. As a matriarch, it is imperative that she make the wisest decision concerning the fate of Hyrule; in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'' when Zant threatened her life and the lives of all of her subjects, she wisely surrendered to him.<ref name=zant>{{Cite|It is time for you to choose: surrender or die. Oh yes, a question for all the land and people of Hyrule... Life? or Death?!|Zant|Twilight Princess}}</ref> Above all, Zelda is known to be a forgiving person even towards those who have harmed her before, as seen in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks|Spirit Tracks]]'', where she asks [[Anjean]] to take care of [[Byrne]] even though he was the one who stole her body.<ref>{{cite|'''Princess Zelda:''' ''Please make sure Byrne remains unharmed, Anjean.''<br>'''Anjean:''' ''Are you sure, my dear? He is the one who stole your body, after all.''<br>'''Princess Zelda:''' ''Yes, but once I reclaim it... I would like to have words with him!''|Princess Zelda and Anjean|Spirit Tracks}}</ref>
 
 
Princess Zelda is one of the three most important characters of [[The Legend of Zelda (Series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' series]], which is also why her name appears in the title of every game. Princess Zelda first appeared in the original ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'', and has since been featured in every subsequent game, with the exception of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening|Link's Awakening]]''. Each Princess is chosen by destiny to be the keeper of the [[Triforce#Triforce of Wisdom|Triforce of Wisdom]] in their era, which is the main reason why they play such an integral role in the legends of Hyrule.
 
 
Throughout the history of Hyrule, there have been several descendants bearing the name Princess Zelda. It has so far become unclear as to which princess was the first to bear the name, although many suspect it to be the Princess Zelda of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]'' since it takes place before ''Ocarina of Time'' and is thus first in the timeline.<ref>{{cite book|quote="Yes, there is a master timeline but it is a confidential document!" explains Aonuma-san. "The only people to have acces to that document are myself, Mr. Miyamoto and the director of the title. We can't share it with anyone else! I have already talked to Mr. Miyamoto about this so I am comfortable releasing this information--this title [Skyward Sword] takes place before Ocarina of Time. If I said that a certain title was 'the first Zelda game', then that means we cant ever make a title that takes place before that! So for us to be able to add titles to the series, we have to have a way of putting the titles before or after each other."|book=Official Nintendo Magazine|publisher=Future Publishing|page=51}}</ref>
 
 
==Abilities==
 
[[File:Tp lightarrow1.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Princess Zelda calls upon the power of the Light Spirits in ''Twilight Princess'']]Throughout the series, Princess Zelda portrays various types of both magical and physical abilities, ranging from capably wielding a bow<ref name=bow>{{cite|I'll use this bow to cover you! Attack him as best you can!|Princess Zelda|The Wind Waker}}</ref> to telepathy, as seen in ''A Link to the Past's'' introduction when she pleads for Link's help.<ref name=telepathy>{{cite manual|quote=One night, a girl's voice awakens you from your sleep. She telepathically pleads. "Help me... My name is Zelda... I am in the castle dungeon."|page=7|game=A Link to the Past}}</ref> Many of her abilities as both a Sage and the wielder of the Triforce of Wisdom are widely illustrated in ''Ocarina of Time'', one of them being that she has prophetic visions in her dreams.<ref>{{cite|Hey, have you heard that Princess Zelda sees prophetic visions in her dreams?|A man in the market|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref>{{cite|I had a dream... In the dream, dark storm clouds were billowing over the land of Hyrule... But suddenly, a ray of light shot out of the forest, parted the clouds and lit up the ground... The light turned into a figure holding a green and shining stone, followed by a fairy... I know this is a prophecy that someone would come from the forest...|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> She also helps Link in their escape from [[Ganon's Castle]] by using her powers to magically remove the barriers blocking the exits. During the final battle between Link and Ganon, Princess Zelda uses her powers to restrain the King of Evil as Link delivers the final blow.<ref>{{cite|I'm using my power to hold the Evil King! You use your sword and deliver the final blow!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> Being the seventh [[Sage]], she is the ruler of the rest of the six Sages, and it is with her guidance that the Sages seal Ganon in the void of the [[Sacred Realm#Ocarina of Time|Evil Realm]].<ref>{{cite|And the other, who holds the Triforce of Wisdom...is the seventh Sage, who is destined to be the leader of them all... It is I, the Princess of Hyrule, Zelda.|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref>{{cite|Six Sages... Now!!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> Finally, with her powers as a Sage, she is capable of returning Link to his original time by simply using the [[Ocarina of Time (Item)|Ocarina of Time]].<ref>{{cite|Link, give the Ocarina to me... As a Sage, I can return you to your original time with it.|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
Some of Princess Zelda's physical abilities are demonstrated in games such as ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'', ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks|Spirit Tracks]]''. In ''The Wind Waker'', Princess Zelda aids Link in battling Ganondorf by borrowing the young hero's bow and using it to fire [[Light Arrows]] at the King of the Gerudo.<ref name=bow/> This skill is again portrayed in the final battle of ''Twilight Princess'', where the princess yet again uses a bow and Light Arrows to strike Ganondorf while accompanying Link on his horse,<ref name=lightarrows>{{cite|I'll try to slow Ganondorf with my light arrows! You target him and keep him within range of my arrows!|Princess Zelda|Twilight Princess}}</ref> and once more in the final battle against [[Malladus]] in ''Spirit Tracks''. In one scene of ''Twilight Princess'', Princess Zelda is seen wielding a sword, although it is unknown whether she possessed any true sword skills.
 
 
As shown in ''Twilight Princess'', Princess Zelda is capable of communicating with the [[Light Spirits]]. Just as the princess and Link are about to be attacked by Ganondorf's ghostly army, Zelda calls upon the Light Spirits to aid her in her time of need, in which the spirits grant her the Light Arrow to banish evil.<ref name=spirits>{{cite|Spirits of the light! Wielders of the great power that shines far and wide upon the lands of our world... In my hour of need, grant me the light to banish evil!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
In ''Spirit Tracks'', Princess Zelda can possess a [[Phantom#Spirit Tracks|Phantom]]'s body after Link strikes it with a powered-up sword or the [[Lokomo Sword]]. While in this state, the princess can help out Link solve various puzzles as well as cross certain obstacles that the young hero cannot do by himself.<ref>{{cite|Hey, look! Now that I'm a Phantom, I can walk through fire and lava! Hee hee hee! I'm like a walking, talking shield, Link!|Princess Zelda|Spirit Tracks}}</ref> Moreover, due to the Phantom's armor, she can also protect Link from attacks or use her strength to fight alongside Link and help him defeat enemies, as seen when fighting [[Geozard]]s or [[Byrne]].
 
 
==Appearances and Biography==
 
===''The Legend of Zelda''===
 
 
{{ImageCaption
 
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:Original_Zelda.png
+
|image = File:Zora Link 3D.png
|size = 100px
+
|size = 160px
 
|align = right
 
|align = right
|caption = Official art depicting Zelda's original appearance.
+
|caption = Zora Link's three-dimensional appearance.
 
|captionalign = center
 
|captionalign = center
 
}}
 
}}
  +
'''Zora Link''' is the form [[Link]] takes after putting on the [[Zora Mask]], and is specific to ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask|Majora's Mask]]''.
[[File:ZeldaLoZ.png|left]]
 
An army of evil, led by [[Ganon#The Legend of Zelda|Ganon]], seeks to possess the [[Triforce#The Legend of Zelda|Triforce]] to plunge the land of Hyrule into darkness.<ref>{{cite manual|One day, an evil army attacked this peaceful little kingdom and stole the Triforce of Power. This army was led by Ganon, the powerful Prince of Darkness who sought to plunge the World into fear and darkness under his rule.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=3}}</ref> Stealing the Triforce of Power, Ganon sought to find the last known piece, the Triforce of Wisdom.
 
   
  +
==Story==
Princess Zelda, as a member of the bloodline that carries and protects the Triforce of Wisdom, broke the Triforce piece into eight fragments and hid them throughout the realm in an effort to avoid its possession under Ganon's hand.<ref name=loz/> At the same time, she sent out her handmaiden, [[Impa#The Legend of Zelda|Impa]], to look for a hero to save the land.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=At the same time, she commanded her most trustworthy nursemaid, Impa, to secretly escape into the land and go find a man with enough courage to destroy the evil Ganon.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=3}}</ref> Ganon learned of what Zelda had done and imprisoned her within his lair under [[Death Mountain#The Legend of Zelda|Death Mountain]], surrounded by a wall of flame.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=Upon hearing this, Ganon grew angry, imprisoned the princess, and sent out a party in search of Impa.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=3}}</ref>
 
  +
After Link finds [[Epona]] in [[Romani Ranch]], he manages to gain access to the coast of [[Great Bay]], only to find a dying [[Zora]] in the waters of the ocean. After bringing him back to the beach, he listens to the last words of the Zora: He, [[Mikau]] the guitarist, was trying to retrieve the eggs of the vocalist of his band, [[Lulu]]; to do so, he had to enter the stronghold of [[Pirates' Fortress]]. However, the Gerudo soldiers within defeated him, and he was sent back to the sea, gravely injured. Because he can't accept death without helping Lulu first, he asks Link to at least calm his soul. Link then plays the [[Song of Healing]] and Mikau leaves to him his essence (materialized into the [[Zora Mask]]) before dying.
   
  +
Link then explores the aforementioned fortress, as well as [[Pinnacle Rock]], to retrieve the lost eggs, then goes to the [[Marine Research Laboratory]] to leave them in good hands, and finally the [[Great Bay Temple]] to purge the ocean from its current state. Because of these tasks, Link's Zora form becomes very important.
Link eventually finds the eight [[Triforce#Triforce Shards|fragments of the Triforce of Wisdom]] scattered throughout Hyrule and travel to Death Mountain where, upon defeating Ganon, he frees Zelda from her prison, returning peace to the land.<ref>{{cite|THANKS LINK, YOU'RE THE HERO OF HYRULE FINALLY, PEACE RETURNS TO HYRULE.|N/A|The Legend of Zelda}}</ref>
 
   
  +
==Abilities==
===''The Adventure of Link''===
 
[[File:SleepingZelda(AoL).png|left|150px]]
+
[[File:Zora Link.png|left|160px]]
  +
The item is vital to the [[Great Bay Temple]]. Pressing [[B-Button|B]] three times will make him lunge his right arm forward, then swing, attempting to hit something with the left fin, and end with him kicking up in the air, in a three-move combo. Holding the B button, he will put his hands together; by releasing it, his two arm-fins will break off and fly around like [[Boomerang]]s, flying in the air and eventually coming back to him. Zora Link can swim like a fish, which is much faster and more freely-controlled than any other incarnation of Link. Just pressing and holding the A button will do it. While doing this, if Link is submerged enough, he can swim towards the surface leap in the air, much like a dolphin. He can also sink, and walk on the bottom of the body of water he is in.
The introduction of ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]'' speaks of the legend of Zelda, a legend that has been passed down in Hyrule.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=Link, the time has come when I must tell you the legend of Zelda handed down in Hyrule.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=6}}</ref> According to that legend, well before the events of ''The Legend of Zelda'', Hyrule was a prosperous land ruled by a [[King of Hyrule (The Adventure of Link)|king]] who had two children, an [[Prince of Hyrule|unnamed prince]] and Princess Zelda. The King maintained peace in Hyrule using the Triforce; however, he passed away, and although the prince should have received the Triforce in full, he only received a part of it.<ref>{{cite manual|It is said that a long ago, when Hyrule was one country, a great ruler maintained the peace in Hyrule using the Triforce. However, the king too was a child of man and he died.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=6}}</ref> The prince frantically searched in vain everywhere for the remaining piece, but then a [[Magician|wizard]] came to the Prince and tells him that his younger sister, Zelda, knows the location of the mystical object.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=Then, the prince of the kingdom should have become king and inherited everything, but he could inherit the Triforce only in part. The Prince searched everywhere for the missing parts, but could not find them. Then, a magician close to the king brought him some unexpected news. Before he died, the king had said something about the Triforce to only the younger sister of the prince, Princess Zelda.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=6, 7}}</ref> The prince demands that Zelda turn the information over to him, but Zelda refuses and, in a rage, the wizard puts Zelda into an eternal sleep, with him dying in the process.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=The prince immediately questioned the princess, but she wouldn't tell him anything. After the prince, the magician threatened to put the princess into an enternal sleep if she did not talk, but even still, she said nothing. In his anger, the magician tried to cast a magic spell on the princess. The surprised prince tried to stop him, but the magician fought off the prince and went on chanting the spell. Then, when the spell was finally cast, Princess Zelda fell on that spot and enter a sleep from which she might never awake. At the same time, the magician also fell down and breathe his last.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=7 and 8}}</ref> Overcome with grief, the prince seals his sleeping sister in the [[North Castle|North Palace]] and orders that all female descendants of the Hylian monarchy are to be named Zelda.<ref name=zeldas>{{cite manual|quote=In his grief, the prince placed the princess in this room. He hoped that someday she would come back to life. So that this tragedy would never be forgotten, he ordered that every female child born into the royal household shall be given the name Zelda.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=8}}</ref>
 
 
To break the curse, a hero must possess the complete Triforce, but obtaining the [[Triforce#The Adventure of Link|Triforce]] pieces of Courage would prove difficult as the king of ages ago had hidden them within the [[Great Palace]].<ref>{{cite manual|quote=There are three kinds of Triforce -- Power, Wisdom, and Courage. [...] Of the three, I have left Power and Wisdom in the kingdom. But the Triforce Courage I have hidden for a reason. [...] The Triforce of Courage is hidden in the Great Palace in the Valley of Death on the largest island in Hyrule.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=9-10}}</ref><ref>{{cite manual|quote=The magic spell cast upon Princess Zelda will sure to be broken if the Triforce is used. Please, Link. Unite the Triforce and save the princess. And bring back peace to Hyrule.|game=The Adventure of Link|page=12}}</ref> Only one who proved themselves worthy would obtain it.
 
 
In the end, Link obtains the Triforce of Courage from the Great Palace and awakes the sleeping princess from her slumber.
 
 
It is not known when Zelda was put to sleep. The Japanese name for the Zelda in this game is 初代ゼルダ姫, which literally means "''The first Princess Zelda''". This only adds to the confusion as the events of ''Ocarina of Time'' contradict the statement that the sleeping Zelda is the first Zelda as the Triforce was safely in the Sacred Realm prior to that game. With all these contradictions, the answer may never be known.
 
 
One solution could be that prior to the events that sealed the fate of the sleeping Zelda, there was a princess named Zelda only once every several generations and after the events, every generation's princess was named Zelda. This conclusion comes from the fact that there are apparent gaps in time between certain games that seem to span several hundred years or more.
 
 
===''A Link to the Past''===
 
[[File:Zelda LthP 1.gif|left|32px]]
 
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', Princess Zelda is a [[Maiden]] descendant of the [[Sage|Seven Wise Men]] who had imprisoned Ganon in the [[Dark World]].<ref>{{cite|But no one ever returned. One day evil power began to flow from the Golden Land... So the King commanded seven
 
wise men to seal the gate to the Land of the Golden Power.|Introduction|A Link to the Past}}</ref> Seeking freedom, Ganon uses the wizard [[Agahnim#The_Legend_of_Zelda:_A_Link_to_the_Past|Agahnim]] to kidnap the descendants in order to sacrifice them and free him from his prison.<ref>{{cite|Through evil magic, he began to make descendants of the seven wise men vanish, one after another. And the time of destiny for Princess Zelda is drawing near.|Introduction|A Link to the Past}}</ref>
 
 
As the last free descendant, Zelda uses telepathy to contact the descendant of the Knights of Hyrule, Link, to save her.<ref name=telepathy/> Despite his efforts in evacuating her from [[Hyrule Castle#The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|Hyrule Castle]], Agahnim manages to capture Zelda and sacrifice her to the Dark World, breaking the seal between Hyrule and the Dark World.<ref>{{cite|Link! You are a second too late. I have failed... Zelda... The soldiers have abducted her. They have taken her to the castle.|Loyal Sage|A Link to the Past}}</ref><ref>{{cite|Ahah... Link! I have been waiting for you! Heh heh heh... I was hoping I could make Zelda vanish in front of your eyes. Behold! The last moment of Princess Zelda! Ho ho ho... With this, the seal of the seven wise men is at last broken. It is now only a matter of time before evil power covers this land...|Agahnim|A Link to the Past}}</ref> While in the Dark World, Princess Zelda is held inside a crystal prison within [[Turtle Rock#The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|Turtle Rock]].<ref>{{Cite|Link, can you hear me? It's me, Zelda. I am locked in Turtle Rock on top of Death Mountain. I know you are doing your best, but please hurry...|Princess Zelda|A Link to the Past}}</ref> When Link frees her, she, along with the other maidens, breaks the seal surrounding Ganon's lair.<ref>{{Cite|Link, we are going to break the barrier of Ganon's Tower with our power.|Princess Zelda|A Link to the Past}}</ref>
 
 
When Link makes a wish with the power of the now-freed Triforce, Princess Zelda returns with the maidens to Hyrule Castle to rule in peace.<ref>{{cite|The Triforce is waiting for a new owner. Its Golden Power is in your hands... Now, touch it with a wish in your heart.|Essence of the Triforce|A Link to the Past}}</ref>
 
{{clear}}
 
 
===''Ocarina of Time''===
 
{{ImageCaption|image=File:Zelda OoT 2.png|size=90px|align=left|caption=Young Zelda as she appears in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]''|captionalign=center}}
 
Growing up in the halls of Hyrule Castle, young Princess Zelda, referred to by the [[Great Deku Tree#Ocarina of Time|Great Deku Tree]] as the Princess of Destiny,<ref name=destiny>{{cite|Link... Go now to Hyrule Castle... There, thou will surely meet the Princess of Destiny...|Great Deku Tree|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> was growing concerned with one of her father's associates, the [[Gerudo]] king [[Ganon]]dorf, and a vision of his treachery did not help matters.<ref>{{cite|Can you see the man with the evil eyes? That is Ganondorf, the leader of the Gerudos. They hail from the desert far to the west. Though he swears allegiance to my father, I am sure he is not sincere. [...] The dark clouds that covered Hyrule in my dream... They must symbolize that man!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> Expressing her concerns with her guardian and nursemaid Impa, she continued to watch the Gerudo despite her inability to do anything about him. That is, until a young [[Kokiri]] boy named Link snuck into her garden courtyard.<ref>{{cite|! Who?! Who are you? How did you get past the guards?|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
Convinced that Ganondorf was after the Triforce, Zelda asked Link to find the three Spiritual Stones that would open the [[Temple of Time]] in order to prevent Ganondorf from opening the Door of Time and claiming the Triforce to himself.<ref>{{cite|But...I can sense that man's evil intentions! What Ganondorf is after must be nothing less than the Triforce of the Sacred Realm. He must have come to Hyrule to obtain it! And, he wants to conquer Hyrule... no, the entire world! Link...now, we are the only ones who can protect Hyrule! Please!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref>{{cite|We must not let Ganondorf get the Triforce! I will protect the Ocarina of Time with all my power! He shall not have it! You go find the other two Spiritual Stones! Let's get the Triforce before Ganondorf does, and then defeat him!|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> Unfortunately, Ganondorf made his move before Link could return, leading an insurrection in the castle. He chased after Zelda, who had the [[Ocarina of Time (Item)|Ocarina of Time]] in her possession, when Impa escaped with her from the castle. Dashing out of the castle town with Ganondorf in hot pursuit, Zelda caught sight of Link diving out of their way. She turned and threw the Ocarina of Time to him, trusting that he would keep it safe while Ganondorf chased after them.<ref>{{cite|Link...Can you hear me? It's me, Zelda... Link, when you hold this Ocarina in your hand... I won't be around anymore... I wanted to wait for you, but I couldn't delay any longer... At least I could leave you the Ocarina and this melody...|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref>{{cite|I saw you as I was escaping from the castle with my attendant, Impa. I thought I should entrust the Ocarina to you... I thought that would be our best chance...|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
For seven years Zelda remained in hiding, training in the ways of the [[Sheikah]] by Impa until Link, who had become trapped within the [[Sacred Realm]], was freed. Appearing before him under the name of [[Sheik]], she assisted Link in awakening the [[Sage|seven sages]], all the while keeping her real identity secret.<ref>{{cite|I am Sheik. Survivor of the Sheikahs...|Sheik|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref name=sheikah2>{{Cite|I apologize for meeting you ([[Link]]) in disguise, but it was necessary to hide from the [[Ganon|King of Evil]]. Please forgive me.|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref><ref name=sheikah>{{cite|I passed myself off as a Sheikah and hoped that you would return. I waited for seven years...|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
When Zelda finally does reveal herself, she does so not only as the Princess Zelda but as the seventh sage, the leader of the other Sages, and possessor of the Triforce of Wisdom.<ref name=triforceoot/> However, having being watching them from afar, Ganondorf then captures Zelda deliberately to drive Link into a fight to the death inside his castle.<ref>{{cite|Princess Zelda...you foolish traitor! I commend you for avoiding my pursuit for seven long years. But you let your guard down... I knew you would appear if I let this kid wander around! My only mistake was to slightly underestimate the power of this kid... No... It was not the kid's power I misjudged, it was the power of the Triforce of Courage! But, with the Triforce of Wisdom that Zelda has... When I obtain these two Triforces... Then, I will become the true ruler of the world!! If you want to rescue Zelda, come to my castle!|Ganondorf|Ocarina of Time}}</ref>
 
 
In the game's conclusion, Zelda sends Link, the Hero of Time, back to his childhood to regain his lost seven years in compensation for his role in the war against Ganondorf.<ref>{{cite|All the tragedy that has befallen Hyrule was my doing... I was so young...I could not comprehend the consequences of trying to control the Sacred Realm. I dragged you into it, too. Now it is time for me to make up for my mistakes... You must lay the Master Sword to rest and close the Door of Time... However, by doing this, the road between times will be closed. Link, give the Ocarina to me... As a Sage, I can return you to your original time with it.|Princess Zelda|Ocarina of Time}}</ref> This would leave only the Hero of Time's legend behind him as he returned to the past and returned to Hyrule Castle to warn the young Princess Zelda of events to come.
 
{{clear}}
 
 
===''Majora's Mask''===
 
It is not known how long Zelda and Link stay together before he leaves for his quest in search of his companion [[Navi]], but Zelda, as a child, makes a single appearance in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask|Majora's Mask]]'' when Link has a flashback after retrieving the Ocarina of Time from the [[Skull Kid#Majora's Mask|Skull Kid]]. The events of the flashback display Link's last meeting with Zelda, where she states her belief that they would meet again.<ref>{{Cite|I'll never forget the days we spent together in Hyrule... And I believe in my heart that a day will come when I shall meet you again...|Princess Zelda|Majora's Mask}}</ref> However, before Link departs the land of [[Hyrule]], Princess Zelda gives him the Ocarina of Time as a memento of the time they spent together.<ref>{{cite|You are already leaving this land of Hyrule, aren't you? Even though it was only a short time, I feel like I've known you forever. I'll never forget the days we spent together in Hyrule... And I believe in my heart that a day will come when I shall meet you again... Until that day comes, please... Take this...|Princess Zelda|Majora's Mask}}</ref> She also teaches Link the "[[Song of Time]]", a melody that holds a special meaning to her,<ref>{{cite|This reminds me of us...|Princess Zelda|Majora's Mask}}</ref> before handing over the ocarina, mentioning that he should play that melody if something were to happen to him.<ref>{{cite|I am praying... I am praying that your journey be a safe one. If something should happen to you, remember this song...|Princess Zelda|Majora's Mask}}</ref>
 
 
===''Oracle of Ages'' and ''Oracle of Seasons''===
 
[[File:PrincessZelda(OoX).gif|left|30px]]
 
In the [[Oracle Series|''Oracle'' series]], Zelda is revealed to be the hope of the people.<ref>{{Cite|When Zelda, the hope of the people, vanishes from Horon Village, this land will be stricken with despair.|Maku Tree (male)|OOS}}</ref> She is the one who sends Impa to [[Labrynna]] and [[Holodrum]] to find [[Nayru (Oracle)|Nayru, the Oracle of Ages]],<ref>{{Cite|Zelda asked me to find a singer named Nayru. Will you help me look, Link? I'd feel safer with you nearby.|Impa|OOA}}</ref> and [[Din (Oracle)|Din, the Oracle of Seasons]], and bring them to Hyrule for safety. Zelda herself appears if the two games are linked. When players have defeated both [[Onox]] and [[Veran]] in the linked game, [[Twinrova]] will kidnap Zelda in order to sacrifice her to resurrect [[Ganon]].<ref>{{Cite|Thanks to Veran and Onox, the Flames of Sorrow and Destruction already flicker! And when we captured Zelda, the foolish humans gave us despair!|Twinrova|OOS}}</ref> Link dashes to her rescue and Twinrova fails to sacrifice Zelda, making them to sacrifice themselves in order to resurrect Ganon. Due to the fact that they could not sacrifice Zelda as planned, the Ganon they resurrect is mindless and raging and is defeated by Link. In these games, Zelda has a sprite similar to that of [[Marin]], the girl Link mistakes for Zelda when he wakes up at the beginning of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening|Link's Awakening]]''.
 
 
===''The Wind Waker''===
 
{{ImageCaption|image=File:ZeldaTWW.png|size=120px|align=right|caption=Zelda, as seen in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''|captionalign=center}}
 
''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]'' presents Zelda in a secret identity as [[Tetra]], a female pirate who leads a small group of thieves after the death of her mother.<ref name=tetra>{{cite|Orphaned at a young age, Tetra followed in her mother's footsteps, becoming a pirate and watching after her mother's gang of lovable swabbies.|Nintendo Gallery figurine description|The Wind Waker}}</ref> Tetra, however, is even unaware herself of being part of the royal bloodline, and this is a first occurrence for the ''Zelda'' series.<ref name=quote1>{{cite|Wh-What?! What are you talking about? I don't know any Zelda...|Princess Zelda|The Wind Waker}}</ref> Despite this, the female pirate is aware of the existence of Hyrule, the Master Sword, and the legend of the Hero of Time. Tetra's identity as a descendant of Princess Zelda is revealed when she travels with Link to Hyrule Castle, beneath the [[Great Sea]]:
 
 
{{quote|You are the true heir of the royal family of Hyrule... the last link in the bloodline. You are Princess Zelda.|[[Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule]]}}
 
 
Her true identity was first hinted when Link travels to the [[Forsaken Fortress]] for a second time and encounters Ganondorf, who, as he grasps Tetra in his hand, realizes that his Triforce of Power is resonating, which could only indicate that Tetra is indeed the Princess Zelda.<ref>{{cite|My Triforce of Power is resonating! Ha! At long last, I have found you...Princess Zelda! [...] Feigning ignorance will gain you nothing! Tell me... If you are not Zelda, then why do you have this fragment of the Triforce?|Ganondorf|The Wind Waker}}</ref>
 
 
Zelda as Tetra displayed a tomboyish demeanor, taking challenges head on and even seeming bossy at times. At the beginning of the game, she does not think much of Link due to his habit of taking actions without thinking things through, and also due to the fact that he gets melancholic as they are setting sail to the Forsaken Fortress to rescue his sister.<ref>{{cite|There you go... Acting before you think, as usual... I swear! Do you even realize that we had to draw that monster bird off for you? It was about to come flying in here after you again!|Tetra|The Wind Waker}}</ref> Once Tetra discovers her true identity, she gains more respect towards the young hero, and apologizes for all that has happened to him and [[Aryll]].<ref>{{Cite|Everything that's happened to you and your poor sister... It's all been my fault. ...I'm so sorry.|Tetra|The Wind Waker}}</ref> While Link and the [[King of Red Lions]] set out to look for the pieces of the Triforce of Courage, Zelda stays hidden away in a basement located inside Hyrule Castle in order to prevent getting caught by Ganondorf.<ref>{{cite|Zelda... It is far too dangerous for you to join us in this task. Fortunately, this sacred chamber is not yet known to Ganon. It is my wish that you wait here in hiding until we return.|King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule|The Wind Waker}}</ref> However, she is eventually found and is taken to Ganon's Tower, where Link must rescue her after assembling the Triforce of Courage.<ref>{{cite|Did you think you'd be safe inside the castle? Foolish... Now that my power has been restored, there is no safe haven for you! I have taken your precious Zelda.|Ganondorf|The Wind Waker}}</ref>
 
 
Zelda from ''The Wind Waker'' is the first Zelda in the series that fights along Link's side in his battle against Ganondorf. In battle, she wields the [[bow]] and [[Light Arrow]]s, similar to her ''Twilight Princess'' counterpart.<ref>{{cite|I'll use this bow to cover you! Attack him as best you can!|Princess Zelda|The Wind Waker}}</ref> Once Link and Zelda succeed in delivering the final blow, they witness the second flood of Hyrule and promise the [[Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule|King of Hyrule]] to search for the new land that will be home to the next kingdom of Hyrule.<ref>{{cite|W-Wait! You could... You could come with us! Yes, of course... We have a ship! We can find it! We WILL find it! The land that will be the next Hyrule!|Princess Zelda|The Wind Waker}}</ref> Zelda is last seen as Tetra when she and Link set sail from [[Outset Island]] in search for new lands.<ref>{{cite|As for our destination... The wind will guide us!|Tetra|The Wind Waker}}</ref>
 
<br>
 
{{figurine|TWW|Princess Zelda|Princess Zelda is the legitimate heir to the [[Royal Family of Hyrule|Hyrulean royal family]]. She is actually the pirate [[Tetra]].|[[File:Princess_Zelda_Figurine_TWW.png|50px]]}}
 
 
===''Four Swords'' series===
 
[[File:Zelda FSA.png|left|48px]]
 
Zelda and Link appear as childhood friends in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords|Four Swords]]'' and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures|Four Swords Adventures]]''.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=She asked a boy named Link, whom she trusted above anyone else, to accompany her to investigate the happenings at the shrine.|game=Four Swords|page=31}}</ref><ref>{{cite manual|quote=Zelda's childhood friend, a young boy named Link, claimed the strange power of the Four Sword and fought Vaati fiercely.|game=Four Swords Adventures|page=13}}</ref>
 
 
Zelda fights Ganon alongside Link much like in previous games. While she does not wield the Light Arrows by name, she does wield a ball of light energy which, coupled with Link's arrows, serves the same function of the Light Arrows.
 
{{clear}}
 
 
===''The Minish Cap''===
 
[[File:Zeldaminishcap.gif|left|35px]]{{ImageCaption|image=File:Zeldatmc.png|size=100px|align=right|caption=Princess Zelda in ''The Minish Cap''|captionalign=center}}
 
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap|The Minish Cap]]'', Princess Zelda is known to sneak out of the castle to visit her good childhood friend, Link.<ref>{{cite|She loves to sneak out of the castle to visit her good friend, Link.|Figurine description|The Minish Cap}}</ref> At the beginning of the game, Link and Zelda head together towards the [[Picori Festival]] in Hyrule Castle Town.<ref>{{cite manual|quote=Princess Zelda / The princess of Hyrule and a longtime friend of Link. She stops in at Link's house, asking if he can join her at the annual Picori festival.|game=The Minish Cap|page=5}}</ref> A catastrophe occurs when the evil wind mage, [[Vaati]], appears and turns Zelda to stone, breaking the [[Picori Blade]] in the process. Link fuses the four elements to transform the blade into the [[Four Sword]] to reverse Vaati's spell. When Link saves Princess Zelda atop the roof of Hyrule Castle where she was being imprisoned by Vaati to steal her [[Life Force]], she reveals to Link that she saw visions of him, as if in a dream.<ref>{{cite|Link, thank you so much for saving me. When I was turned to stone, I saw visions of you, as if in a dream.|Princess Zelda|TMC}}</ref> However, soon after this, the castle begins to collapse, and as Link and Zelda begin to head towards the [[Elemental Sanctuary]], Vaati appears again, which Link defeats.<ref>{{cite|No! The castle's collapsing! It's too dangerous here. Quickly! We must escape from the castle!|Ezlo|The Minish Cap}}</ref> The [[Mage's Cap|Minish Cap]] falls down and [[Ezlo]], now a [[Minish]] again, urges Princess Zelda to makes a wish. Princess Zelda thus wishes for Hyrule to return to its usual, peaceful state, making all the monsters disappear and returning its people back to normal.<ref>{{cite|If one with a just heart wears this cap, things can be made right again. Princess Zelda! Let your wishes be made real!|Ezlo|The Minish Cap}}</ref>
 
<br>
 
{{figurine|TMC|Princess Zelda|A bright and cheery princess from [[Royal Family of Hyrule|Hyrule's royal family]]. She loves to sneak out of the [[Hyrule Castle|castle]] to visit her good friend, [[Link]].|[[File:Princess_Zelda_Figurine.gif‎]]}}
 
 
===''Twilight Princess''===
 
:''See also: [[Possessed Zelda#Twilight Princess|Puppet Zelda]]
 
[[File:Princess Zelda.png|left|120px]][[File:Robbed_Figure.jpg|thumb|Princess Zelda dressed in her dark attire]]
 
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', Zelda was the young matriarch of Hyrule until its [[Zant's Invasion of Hyrule|invasion]] by [[Zant]], the Twilight King, to whom she surrendered in order to prevent the deaths of herself and her people.<ref name=zant/> Afterward, she is imprisoned inside a tower in Hyrule Castle. It is revealed that Zelda is unaffected by the veil of [[Twilight]] Zant casts upon Hyrule and does not become a [[spirit]] like all the other inhabitants of the kingdom. As the bearer of the [[Triforce#Triforce of Wisdom|Triforce of Wisdom]], Zelda may have been protected by its power.<ref name=triforcetp/>
 
 
Zelda, dressed in a dark robe, meets Link during his earliest transformation into a wolf (due to the interaction between the Twilight and his Triforce piece). Later, she transfers her own power to aid the dying [[Midna]], losing her physical being in the process.<ref name=midna/>
 
 
Towards the end of the game, Ganondorf possesses the lifeless Zelda, who was being imprisoned in the throne room of Hyrule Castle, transforming her into an enemy known as [[Possessed Zelda|Puppet Zelda]]. Link defeats Ganondorf's puppet, and Midna, with the help of the Fused Shadows, returns Princess Zelda to normal.
 
 
Ganondorf makes another attempt on Zelda's life soon after, but she is protected by the [[Light Spirits]] of Hyrule who grant her the [[Light Arrow]]s to assist Link in the horseback part of his final battle.<ref name=spirits/><ref name=lightarrows/> The last time she is seen in the game is when she and Link say good-bye to Midna at the [[Mirror of Twilight]].
 
 
===''Phantom Hourglass''===
 
Princess Zelda appears in this game solely as Tetra, her alter ego in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Wind Waker]]''. She does not regain her royal persona, although quite often when she appears, “[[Zelda's Lullaby]]” plays in the background, and she is called "Zelda" by some of the pirates during the game's intro,<ref>{{cite|Princess Zelda, we're nearly at that spot in the sea!|Mako|Phantom Hourglass}}</ref> much to Tetra's chagrin.<ref>{{cite|I told you not to call me Zelda! Tetra worked just fine before, you know.|Tetra|Phantom Hourglass}}</ref> Her role is somewhat limited in the game as she is kidnapped early on in the story, and when Link finds her at last she has been turned to stone.<ref>{{cite|That Ghost Ship is REALLY, REALLY DANGEROUS! I was almost frozen forever on that thing! Link saved me. You wouldn't believe what he went through!|Tetra|Phantom Hourglass}}</ref>
 
 
After Link defeats [[Bellum]], he and Tetra awaken on the Ghost Ship, only ten minutes after the prologue according to the pirates.<ref>{{cite|What are you talking about? You were only on that ship... Ten minutes?!|N/A|Phantom Hourlgass}}</ref> Tetra's crew tries to convince her that it was just a dream, but Link finds the [[Phantom Hourglass (Item)|Phantom Hourglass]] in his pocket, and the [[S. S. Linebeck]] is seen sailing in the distance.
 
 
===''Spirit Tracks''===
 
:''See also: [[Phantom#Phantom Zelda|Phantom Zelda]], [[Possessed Zelda#Spirit Tracks|Possessed Zelda]]''
 
{{ImageCaption|image=File:Ghost Zelda.png|size=150px|align=right|caption=Zelda as a ghost in ''Spirit Tracks''|captionalign=center}}
 
Princess Zelda plays a much larger role in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks|Spirit Tracks]]'' than in previous installments, as she herself also aids Link in the salvation of Hyrule.
 
 
For the first time (not counting the non-canonical Phillips CD-i games), it is possible to play as Zelda herself as Link and the princess escape the castle, albeit for a short time. Afterward, Link, Zelda, and [[Alfonzo]] attempt to escape via train, but the train crashes, Chancellor Cole appears, attacks Zelda and takes her body, which he hopes to use to revive the Demon King [[Malladus]], but Zelda's spirit escapes and returns to Hyrule Castle. There, she meets with Link, the only one who can see her. The two go to the Tower of Spirits. Here, a [[Phantom]] Knight attacks Link, but Zelda charges at the Phantom, taking control of its body. After this, she and Link begin their journey to restore the Tower of Spirits and the Spirit Tracks, traveling with Link across the [[Overworld|overworld]]. Whenever Link returns to the Tower of Spirits to obtain another [[Rail Map]], Zelda possesses a Phantom's armor, allowing Link to proceed through the tower in ways he could not by himself.
 
 
Towards the end of the game, after Zelda's body has been possessed by Malladus, Link must fire a [[Light Arrow]] using the [[Bow of Light]] in order to free Zelda's body from Malladus. Once her body is freed, Zelda is unable to reenter her body, and just as Malladus is about to possess it again, Byrne uses his power to repel the Demon King, giving Zelda the strength to pray to her grandmother Tetra to reclaim her body.<ref>{{cite|Tetra! Please give me your blessing!|Princess Zelda|Spirit Tracks}}</ref> In the final battle, Zelda, finally back in her own body, charges up her power to weaken the Demon King, which reveals a weak spot on the demon's back.<ref>{{cite|[Link]! I'm going to concentrate on channeling my power. While I do that, please protect me from Malladus!|Princess Zelda|Spirit Tracks}}</ref> Like in previous games, Princess Zelda's role consists of shooting Light Arrows at Malladus's back from the [[Bow of Light]].<ref>{{cite|You distract Malladus, [Link]. When I see an opportunity, I'll shoot him in the back with the Bow of Light.|Princess Zelda|Spirit Tracks}}</ref> Link and Zelda are then seen holding hands as they witness the departure of the Lokomos.
 
 
After the ending credits, Princess Zelda can be seen at her office signing papers and, depending on whether Link chose to be an engineer or a warrior, she will go look out the window and wave at Link upon hearing either a train whistle or swords clanking. If Link selects "Dunno," then Zelda will be signing papers and simply remember the adventure she had with Link. This scene can also be viewed if the scene before the fight with Malladus was skipped.
 
 
This Princess Zelda is confirmed to be a direct descendant of [[Tetra]], the pirate captain who was also the incarnation of Princess Zelda in her day, and makes an appearance in a large stained glass window in Hyrule Castle's Throne Room.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://hyrule.net/forum/index.php?/topic/13369-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracks-%E2%80%93-details-and-spoilers/page__pid__260560__st__0&#entry260560|title=Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks - Details and Spoilers|site=Hyrule.net}}</ref> Princess Zelda states that the [[Spirit Flute]] was played for her in her youth by her grandmother (whom she later reveals to be Tetra), and Anjean states that she gave the Spirit Flute to Tetra long ago, pointing out the similarities between the reigning Princess Zelda and her ancestor, the feisty pirate captain that arrived on the land's shores long ago.
 
 
===''Skyward Sword''===
 
{{future game}}
 
Eiji Aonuma mentioned in the September 2010 issue of ''Nintendo Power'' that Princess Zelda will make an appearance in the upcoming [[Wii]] game ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|Skyward Sword]]''.<ref>{{cite book|quote=Seeing that it is The Legend of Zelda, we can't have a game without Zelda! So I think it's safe to say we'll be seeing her.|book=Nintendo Power|publisher=Nintendo|page=55}}</ref>
 
 
==Name Popularity==
 
[[File:Zelda AoL 1.gif|left]]{{Main|Sleeping Zelda}}
 
As mentioned above, there have been more than one princess named Zelda throughout the history of Hyrule, and since more games are to come, not even all of them have appeared in the games to this date. All of them generally have the same appearance of a beautiful young girl/woman with red, brown, or blond hair and blue eyes.
 
 
When the princess shown in ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]'' was put to sleep, her brother, the [[Prince of Hyrule]] who was partly to blame for her comatose state, decided that in honor of his sister every princess born in to the [[Royal Family of Hyrule]] should be named Zelda.<ref name=zeldas/> It is unclear if this explains the name of every Princess Zelda, since the order of the games is unknown.
 
 
==Alter Egos==
 
{{spoiler}}
 
===Sheik===
 
{{Main|Sheik}}
 
In ''Ocarina of Time'', Link met up with a mysterious member of the [[Sheikah]] Tribe, fittingly called Sheik. This person taught [[Link]] a multitude of different songs and gave him tips on how to proceed in his quest. At the end of the game, Sheik revealed himself to be none other than Princess Zelda in a disguise.<ref name=triforceoot/> During the seven years Link had been asleep while maturing to become ready to fight [[Ganon|Ganondorf]], Zelda had gone underground and taken the disguise as Sheik so that Ganondorf would not find her in his search for the two remaining pieces of the [[Triforce]], one which was held by Princess Zelda herself.<ref name=sheikah/><ref name=sheikah2/>
 
 
Sheik is also a playable character in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'' and ''Brawl'': Zelda is able to transform into Sheik during a battle, allowing her to use a different set of moves.
 
 
===Tetra===
 
{{Main|Tetra}}
 
Born into a society of pirates on the Great Sea, Tetra, captain of the [[pirates]], was completely unaware that she was a member of the Royal Family of Hyrule's bloodline.<ref name=tetra/><ref name=quote1/> When this was revealed to her by [[Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule|King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule]], she was just as surprised as Link to find out that she was indeed a descendant of Princess Zelda of Hyrule and also the one destined to be the keeper of the Triforce of Wisdom.<ref>{{cite|You are the true heir of the royal family of Hyrule... the last link in the bloodline. You are Princess Zelda.|King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule}}</ref>
 
 
===Leader of the sages===
 
Princess Zelda has fulfilled the role of [[Sage]] in three games: ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'', and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures|Four Swords Adventures]]''. It was revealed in ''Ocarina of Time'' that she even is the leader of the Sages.<ref name=triforceoot/>
 
 
{{Theory}}
 
An odd part about her role as Sage is that Zelda is the only Sage in ''Ocarina of Time'' who has no (confirmed) element connected to her. A common theory is that Zelda might be the ''Sage of Time''. The arguments for this theory are that the only "Sageless" temple is the [[Temple of Time]] (although some believe that it is linked to [[Rauru]]), as well as that it would have an [[Song of Time|accompanying song]] which in name fits the description of the other "Sage songs" and is learned from the "same person". Also, like the other Sages in ''Ocarina of Time'', the element would be "fitting", as Zelda is associated with [[Nayru (Goddess)|Nayru]], who is thought to be the Goddess of Time. Otherwise, it could very well be that Zelda has no element bound to her sageship. Her position as leader of the Sages would require her to be an "overall sage", rather than have something specific herself.
 
 
==Zelda's Swords==
 
[[File:Zelda Concept.png|right|150px|Zelda with her Twilight Princess blade]]
 
Although they have yet to be individually named like [[Link|Link's]] swords, Princess Zelda has on more than one occasion been seen possessing or wielding a blade of her own.
 
 
===''Twilight Princess''===
 
In the promotional pictures for ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]'', Princess Zelda is seen in possession of a sword and she indeed wields it against [[Link]] when she becomes possessed by [[Ganon|Ganondorf]], although not in hand-to-hand combat. In a scene where Zelda's [[Castle Guard|Knights]] fell to [[Zant|Zant's]] [[Shadow Beasts]], the blade was in her hand, seemingly as a status symbol or for imagery.
 
 
==Valiant Comics==
 
{{Ambig}}
 
{{quote|Fighting with that girl is like arguing with a stone wall.|Link}}
 
[[File:Zelda VC 1.jpg|left|frame|Zelda under the curse of Eternal Sleep]]
 
In the [[Valiant Comics]], Princess Zelda is portrayed as a strong woman. Self-reliant and confident, she is a skilled fighter, proficient in archery, and horseback riding. Despite being better skilled with the bow, Zelda does at times wield Link's [[Magical Sword]] in battle. She also possesses a quick wit and usually manages to avoid Link's attempts of affection towards her, but for all her strengths, she possesses a soft heart that is open to her people and friends. She possesses the wisdom of the Triforce of Wisdom and with it, she can conjure powerful magic spells. She holds her duty above all else and has difficulty understanding how others hold other things, such as emotional connections, above duty.
 
 
As heir to the royal bloodline, Zelda is responsible for the protection of the Triforce, chiefly the Triforce of Wisdom. In order to be successful with this task, she has acquired many friends to help her, including her hero and rescuer Link, her nursemaid Impa, [[King Harkinian]], the soldiers of Hyrule, and her horse, [[Storm]]. Zelda sleeps in the northern tower, which is adjacent to the Link's tower, which contains the Triforce of Wisdom.
 
[[File:ZeldaVC.jpg|thumb|right|Zelda, as she appears in the Valiant Comics.]]
 
During one adventure, Zelda decides that due to Ganon's constant attempts to capture her and the Triforce, the best course of action is to leave Hyrule, taking the Triforce of Wisdom with her.<ref>''Zelda said that the only way to keep the Triforce of Wisdom safe from Ganon is for her to take it far away and never return!'' - King Harkinian (''Valiant Comic Issue #1'')</ref> She had heard of a magical flute within the [[Fifth Palace]] that would teleport her to a distant place, where Ganon wouldn't find the Triforce.<ref>''In the Fifth Palace of Hyrule is a magic flute that will transport me to a distant place. Ganon will never find me'' - Zelda (''Valiant Comic Issue #1'')</ref> With Link's help she made it to the Palace but in the end, she decides that the safest place to be is within Link's reach.<ref>''Mister, wherever you are is the '''safest''' place we'll ever be.'' - Zelda (''Valiant Comic Issue #1'')</ref> With this in mind, she insists that Link train her to better protect herself.
 
 
During one such training mission, Zelda decided she would venture in to the Eagle Labyrinth alone. However, the training ended in her rescuing Link, who had been captured by a [[Wizzrobe]]. During this adventure, she wielded Link's [[Magical Sword]], shield, and bombs as she fought multiple enemies including [[Gohma]] and [[Dodongo]]. Although she was successful, she had immense difficulty doing it in a manner similar to Link's. It wasn't until she obtained a [[Bow|Magic Bow]] that she learned to develop her own style. With her new-found skills, she managed to defeat the Wizzrobe using only a bow.
 
 
Later on, when Link obtained the Triforce of Power, the Triforce of Courage moved to Zelda and with it she faced Link and convinced him to relinquish the Triforce of Power.
 
 
<center><gallery>
 
File:Zelda VC 2.jpg
 
File:Zelda VC 3.jpg
 
File:Zelda VC 4.jpg
 
</gallery></center>
 
 
==Appearances outside of canon==
 
{{Noncanon}}
 
===Animated series===
 
[[File:Zelda 2 (Underworld Connections).png|thumb|right|Princess Zelda as seen in the animated series]]
 
In the [[The Legend of Zelda (TV series)|''Zelda'' animated series]], Princess Zelda looks vastly different from her official artwork of the first two games. She is almost as tall as Link, has waist-length blond hair and wears a blue tiara on her head. Instead of wearing a dress, which she only does so in two episodes, she wears white pants with a pair of brown, long boots and dons a purple long-sleeved shirt underneath her blue vest.
 
 
Princess Zelda is portrayed as a proud, athletic and stubborn princess with a fiery temper, although she does have her sense of humor<ref name=hero>{{cite episode|quote=We may not need a hero to fight off this attack. We may not even need you.|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=13}}</ref> and a romantic, sensitive side.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=You were standing on this flower, you brute!|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=11}}</ref> In addition to running the kingdom part-time for her father, [[King Harkinian]], she often accompanies [[Link]] on his adventures and proves to be an invaluable addition in combat, departing from the traditional role of a princess:<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Quick, take these and try to open the gate. Zelda and I will try to hold off Gohma.|name=Link|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=9}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode|quote=Back-to-back Princess, fast!|name=Link|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=1}}</ref><ref>[[:File:Link Zelda 4 (The Ringer).png|Link and Zelda fighting Stalfos back-to-back in "The Ringer"]]</ref> when Link asks her to stay so that he can defeat the monsters himself, the princess refuses to just sit down and watch and instead chooses to join him in battling the foes.<ref>{{Cite episode|quote='''Link:''' Stay here, princess! '''Zelda:''' Fat chance!'''|name=Link and Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=3}}</ref> She excels in the use of a [[Zelda's Bow|bow]] and is what she uses for most of her battles; however, she is further seen skillfully wielding a [[boomerang]], a [[crossbow]] and, as seen in "[[The Missing Link]]", even Link's [[Crissword]]. Often times Link provides these weapons for her,<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Better take these boomerangs. No telling what we will run into down there.|name=Link|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=8}}</ref> but as demonstrated in "[[Sing for the Unicorn]]", Zelda also has the capability of magically making a bow appear on her hand.
 
 
Although Princess Zelda mostly fights with weapons, she is the wielder of the [[Triforce of Wisdom]] and is knowledgeable in its magic capabilities, often using its magical powers to save Link or herself from dangerous situations.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=So, you're playing with magic, eh, princess? Let me show you it's done.|name=Ganon|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=6}}</ref> Zelda can only use magic when she has the Triforce of Wisdom with her,<ref>{{cite episode|quote=I MUST get the Triforce to fight Ganon, you hold them here.|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=12}}</ref> which she usually makes it float and seems to be the only one who can do so.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=This thing is heavy. Why don't you make it float like you usually do?|name=Link|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=7}}</ref>
 
 
The series exemplifies a romantic relationship between Link and Zelda. Link is always begging the princess for a kiss;<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Ta da! Saved ya again. Kiss me.|name=Link|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=5}}</ref> however, even when she agrees to indulge him,<ref>{{cite episode|quote=I'm glad too. And thanks for rescuing me. You still want a kiss?|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=4}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode|quote=Mmm...shut up and kiss me!|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=6}}</ref><ref>{{cite episode|quote=We did it! Kiss me!|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=9}}</ref> it never occurs: they are interrupted by monsters, [[Spryte]] or any number of unfortunate circumstances such as something making Zelda so mad she no longer wants to kiss the young hero. Despite this, it is revealed in "[[The Missing Link]]" that Zelda loves Link,<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Zelda could only see Link if...if she was in love with him! Zelda in love with Link? Augh! How disgusting!|name=Ganon|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=12}}</ref> although she tries to deny it and say that she only likes him "a little."<ref>{{cite episode|quote=No! I mean...maybe just a little.|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=12}}</ref> She most likely kept it a secret from him so as to prevent it from going into Link's head.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Don't get a swelled head. I just like you a little, that's all.|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=12}}</ref> To cover this up, she sometimes makes fun of Link and for the most part has a love-hate relationship with him throughout the show.<ref name=hero/><ref>{{cite episode|quote=Love you? Hah! It's just that without your body you're even MORE useless than usual.|name=Princess Zelda|show=The Legend of Zelda|episode=12}}</ref>
 
 
===''Captain N: The Game Master''===
 
[[File:Princess Zelda (Captain N).png|thumb|right|Princess Zelda in ''Captain N: The Game Master'']]
 
Princess Zelda makes four episode appearances in ''[[Captain N: The Game Master]]''. Zelda's personality only changed slightly from the ''Zelda'' animated series, as she's still portrayed as a proud, fair princess who rules the kingdom of Hyrule. She seems to be good friends with Princess Lana, and they both regard each other highly. Like in the ''Zelda'' cartoons, she is skillful with the [[Zelda's Bow|bow]] and often uses it during battle. Zelda's outfit retains the same style and colors from the ''Zelda'' show, but her purple shirt is now short-sleeved on her left arm, and the shirt leaves her stomach exposed. Cynthia Preston reprises her role as the voice actress for the princess.
 
 
In the "[[Having a Ball]]" episode, after King Hippo and Eggplant Wizard steal the Triforce of Power and Courage, Zelda's energy wanes, which causes her to faint momentarily. It is explained by Link that Zelda has a magic bond with the Triforce, and as such, she can tell if something has happened to the sacred relic.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=There's a magic bond between them.|name=Link|show=Captain N: The Game Master|episode=Having a Ball}}</ref> As more time passes with the three Triforce pieces separated, the weaker Zelda becomes, and eventually, she could die.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=Something's happened to the Triforce. And if it's destroyed, it could finish her!|name=Link|show=Captain N: The Game Master|episode=Having a Ball}}</ref> Like in the ''Zelda'' cartoons, the princess is capable of communicating with the Triforce of Wisdom, as shown when Zelda picks up the remaining Triforce piece and uses it to tell Kevin and the rest of the team to know where the two remaining pieces are.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=It will guide us to them, but we must hurry.|name=Princess Zelda|show=Captain N: The Game Master|episode=Having a Ball}}</ref> Once the three Triforce pieces are reunited, the show exemplifies Zelda's unique magical powers when wielding the complete sacred relic: she creates a warp zone to make King Hippo, Eggplant Wizard and Mother Brain disappear from Hyrule.<ref>{{cite episode|quote=I want you out of my kingdom, ''now''!|name=Princess Zelda|show=Captain N: The Game Master|episode=Having a Ball}}</ref>
 
 
===Nintendo Adventure Books===
 
{{ImageCaption
 
|image=File:Zelda's Dagger.png
 
|size=100px
 
|align=right
 
|caption=Princess Zelda, as seen in ''The Crystal Trap''
 
|captionalign=center
 
}}
 
In the [[Nintendo Adventure Books]] series, Princess Zelda has much of the same personality as seen in the Valiant Comics and the Television series. She is portrayed as a smart, brave and capable woman, with great skill as both a princess and a fighter. She is proficient in the use of [[Zelda's Bow|her bow]], which is her main offensive weapon,<ref>{{cite book|quote=In a flash, Zelda lets fly two arrows, piercing two two closest moblin. The others pour into the small room over the bodies of their fallen comrades, slobbering and jabbering in their awful tongue.|book=The Crystal Trap|publisher=Archway|page=27}}</ref><ref>{{cite book|quote=In a split second, she notches one of the strange arrows into her bowstring and takes aim on the nearest gibdo. It's close enough for her to smell its rotting cloth bandages.|book=The Crystal Trap|publisher=Archway|page=18}}</ref> but also resorts to using [[Zelda's Dagger|a dagger]] whenever the bow and arrow is an inefficient weapon against [[Boomerang Demon|certain enemies]].<ref>{{cite book|quote='Drat!' she yells. 'Arrows are no good against these monsters.' She draws her dagger to fend off the weird flying goblins.'|book=The Crystal Trap|publisher=Archway|page=65}}</ref>
 
 
Princess Zelda lives in [[North Castle]], along with the [[King of Hyrule]], where they both try to keep the Triforce of Wisdom away from Ganon's grasp. Impa still serves as the princess's nursemaid,<ref name>{{cite book|quote=Before he can make up his mind, a bent old woman in a black dress hobbles toward him. It's Zelda's nurse, Impa.|book=The Shadow Prince|publisher=Mammoth|page=83}}</ref> although it is also mentioned that a man named [[Estragon]] was both her mentor and teacher some time in the past.<ref name>{{cite book|quote='Estragon!' Zelda cries. 'My old teacher. I thought you were Ganon's spy.'|book=The Crystal Trap|publisher=Archway|page=7}}</ref> Despite the fact that Zelda is best friends with Link, the young hero seems to enjoy annoying the princess whenever the chance arises, although Zelda also does not miss the opportunity to poke fun at the young hero.<ref>{{Cite book| quote=Two steps behind is Zelda's best friend, Link.|book= The Shadow Prince| publisher=Mammoth| page= 2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book| quote='Did you hear something?' Zelda asks, stopping suddenly. 'Hear something?' Link replies. Zelda scowls. 'Do you have to repeat everything I say?' 'Repeat everything you say?' Link grins.|book= The Shadow Prince| publisher=Mammoth| page= 2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book| quote='I'm not in the mood for jokes, Link. I have a strange feeling Ganon and his forces might be lurking around here.' 'Ohhh,' Link cries. 'Lurking'--pretty big word, Zel. Been hitting the books again?'|book= The Shadow Prince| publisher=Mammoth| page= 2}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book| quote=Link grins. 'Maybe now you'll better appreciate the talent here at home.' Zelda looks confused. 'Talent?' she says. 'Where?' Then she grins and they both burst out laughing.|book= The Shadow Prince| publisher=Mammoth| page= 2}}</ref>
 
 
====''The Crystal Trap''====
 
In the first book of the series, ''[[The Crystal Trap]]'', Link and Princess Zelda are running inside the [[Midoro Palace]] trying to escape from Ganon's grasp. However, the evil wizard finds them and eventually encases Link in a [[Crystal]]. Ganon explains that since he cannot obtain the Triforce of Courage and Wisdom from Link and Zelda respectively, he used a [[Magic Scroll]] which cast a spell to encase both pieces of the Triforce, including the Triforce of Courage encased in Link's heart.<ref name=courage>{{Cite book| quote='I already have the Triforce of Power, but I need all three parts of the Triforce to complete my hold on Hyrule. Since I cannot get the Triforces of Courage and Wisdom from you, then you shall not be able to use them, either,' he says. 'With this magic scroll, I have cast a spell to encase them in unbreakable crystal. Of course, since the Triforce of Courage is in Link's heart, I'm afraid the poor boy will have to be shut up in the crystal also. Sorry about that.'|book=The Crystal Trap| publisher=Archway| page= 65}}</ref> Zelda is now forced to seek the three items dictated in the [[Fairy's Scroll]] that will help free Link from the Crystal, but she has just 24 hours before the young hero gets trapped inside the crystal forever.<ref>{{Cite book| quote='Not likely,' says Ganon. 'There's only one way to break the crystal, and I don't think you'll ever figure it out, or find the three things you need. By this time tomorrow, Link will be trappedi n the crystal forever!'|book=The Crystal Trap| publisher=Archway| page= 65}}</ref>
 
 
Eventually, Princess Zelda finds the [[Magic Honey]], the [[Handprint]], and the [[Magnifying Glass]] and uses them to shatter the Crystal. With Link now free, the young duo head off to find the [[Spear]], which is the only weapon that can defeat Ganon. With the help of Zelda's friend [[Greenbeard]], Link obtains the Spear and uses it to defeat Ganon once and for all.<ref>{{Cite book| quote=Link gets ready to throw the spear. As he does, Ganon stumbles backward. 'The spear!' says the evil wizard in a trembling voice. 'How did you find it?'|book=The Crystal Trap| publisher=Archway| page= 17}}</ref>
 
 
====''The Shadow Prince''====
 
''[[The Shadow Prince]]'', unlike ''The Crystal Trap'' which had Zelda as its protagonist, focuses on Link as he tries to prove to everyone about [[Charles|Sir Charles's]] true intentions, who is a mysterious knight from the land of [[Moria]]. Princess Zelda is quick to trust Charles after he saves Link and the princess from a near-fatal attack from Moblins, and admires him for all the kind and brave deeds he has done, such as defeating single-handledly a [[Darknut]] that ambushed them later in the woods.<ref name>{{cite book|quote='Oh, Link,' she says excitedly. 'You should have seen Charles just now! Three Darknuts jumped out of the woods at us, all at once. I was too dizzy to help, but Charles beat one of them, and then the other two just ran away in fear! [...] Charles is a wizard with a sword.'|book=The Shadow Prince|publisher=Mammoth|page=119}}</ref> Despite her liking towards Charles, she hesitates when her father, the King of Hyrule, wishes to show the Triforce of Wisdom to the Morian knight since she is afraid to lose another piece of the Triforce to Ganon.<ref>{{cite book|quote='Your new friend, Charles, is a fine young man. I was thinking...would it be premature to show him the Triforce?' Zelda looks startled. 'Well, I--' [...] 'But our enemy Ganon already has the Triforce of Power,' Zelda says. 'If we lose our Triforce of Wisdom, Ganon would be that much closer to ruling us all.'|book=The Shadow Prince|publisher=Mammoth|page=17}}</ref>
 
 
After Link uses the [[Mirror of Truth]] to reveal that Charles is in fact Ganon in disguise, the false knight takes the Triforce of Wisdom and takes Zelda with him as well, but afterward leaves her before he heads off into the woods. Zelda tells Link where Charles headed off to, and the young hero promptly defeats the Morian knight. With the Triforce of Wisdom in hand, Princess Zelda apologizes to the young hero for having been so foolish, then proceeds to celebrate Link's victory along with the rest of the kingdom.<ref name>{{cite book|quote='Oh, Link'! she says. Her cheeks are red with embarrassment. 'I can't believe I was such an idiot.'|book=The Shadow Prince|publisher=Mammoth|page=17}}</ref>
 
 
===''A Link to the Past'' comic===
 
[[File:Zelda LttPC 1.jpg|120px|thumb|right|Zelda in the ''A Link to the Past'' comic]]
 
This [[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (Comic)|comic]] is in an alternate timeline in which the events following similarly to the game, but in the end, Princess Zelda is crowned to become '''Queen Zelda'''. She knights Link who is charged with guarding the Triforce. The two grow distant and end up going their separate ways.
 
 
===Philips CD-i Games===
 
[[File:Faces of Evil Zelda.jpg|thumb|left|120px|Zelda in ''The Faces of Evil'']]
 
In ''[[Link: The Faces of Evil]]'', Zelda, like Link, is very similar to her canonical incarnation, although somewhat bratty and childish. In the beginning, she refuses to kiss Link, and is later kidnapped by Ganon. Link, after defeating Ganon, saves her, but is once again rejected a kiss. Zelda also seems to deny that Link saved her, implying that she has no memory of the incident.
 
 
In ''[[Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon]]'', Zelda is now the playable character, and retains her personality from ''The Faces of Evil''. However, due to her larger role, she is much more heroic and seems to actually care for Link, at least partially. She and Impa go to [[Gamelon]] after [[King Harkinian]] and Link disappear after they depart for Gamelon to aid [[Duke Onkled]] against Ganon. She defeats Ganon's minions, learns of Duke Onkled's betrayal, and eventually defeats Ganon, rescuing her father. Link was then apparently imprisoned in a mirror that belonged to Lady Alma, which Zelda smashed, freeing him.
 
   
  +
Using the [[Dolphin Jump]] is key to defeating [[Gyorg (Boss)|Gyorg]]. If he doesn't use that technique, he'll be chewed by the boss. Zora Link's boomerangs come in handy, and so does his electrical shield: while in the water, pressing the R button creates an electric aura around Zora Link. He can swim into enemies while doing this, and they take damage. Most die from this, but some like Gyorg just take damage. Pressing the R button on land will extend his right fin and make it into a shield. By holding both B and R, it's possible to create an electric aura on land, and moving with it by holding Z (like moving with a normal shield).
Zelda is once again the playable character in ''[[Zelda's Adventure]]'', like in ''The Wand of Gamelon'', but her mood and personality is completely different. In fact, much like Link in the canon games, she does not talk at all, and appears as a humble, chosen warrior. She is summoned to Tolemac by the wizard Gaspra. Link was apparently adventuring there and was kidnapped by Ganon, who also stole the celestial signs. Zelda then defeats Ganon's minions, restores the signs, and strikes down Ganon himself, rescuing Link and saving Tolemac. In this game, the sword is used as a spell through her default weapon, the wand. Using the wand, Princess Zelda can generate broadswords that fly at her enemies. It is fairly strong and can be used against certain knights who fight with broadswords. See [[Spells of Zelda's Adventure#Broadsword|Spells of Zelda's Adventure]] for more information.
 
{{Clear}}
 
   
  +
==Instrument==
===''Super Smash Bros. Melee''===
 
  +
His version of the [[Ocarina of Time (Item)|Ocarina of Time]] is the [[Ocarina Transformations#Guitar of Waves|Guitar of Waves]]. This is the instrument that Mikau played in life as a member of [[The Indigo-Go's]] band. This instrument is also required to give effect to the [[New Wave Bossa Nova]] melody, vital to help Lulu and to gain access to the [[Great Bay Temple]].
[[File:Zelda SSBM 4.jpg|right|thumb|120px|Zelda in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'']]
 
The Princess Zelda of ''Ocarina of Time'' makes an appearance in the acclaimed ''Smash Bros.'' series. Ranking #42 in weight-class next to [[Characters in Super Smash Bros. (Series)#Peach|Princess Peach]] and Sheik (#15 if poisoned, #73 if Super, #123 when Metal), she is regarded by most as a lightweight character. Princess Zelda, although slow moving, possess some mighty strength through her spell-based attacks.
 
   
  +
==Non-canon Appearances==
  +
{{noncanon}}
 
===''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''===
 
===''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''===
  +
Zora Link appears as a [[sticker]] in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''.
Zelda returns to Super Smash Bros. in ''Brawl,'' this time appearing as she did in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Twilight Princess]]''. Sheik also appears, using a character model based on an unused design for ''Twilight Princess''. While Zelda's moves are mostly unchanged from ''Melee,'' Sheik's physical attack power has been dropped considerably to better balance the game. Her [[Final Smash]] is the [[Light Arrow#Super Smash Bros. Brawl|Light Arrow]].
 
   
  +
{| class="wikitable" border="1" cellpadding="2" style="text-align:center;"
[http://strategywiki.org/wiki/Super_Smash_Bros._Melee/Zelda Zelda's move list] at [[File:Sw_small_logo.png]][http://strategywiki.org '''StrategyWiki''']
 
  +
|-
  +
!width="inherited"|Name
  +
!width="50px"|Image
  +
!Artwork from
  +
!Effect in [[The Subspace Emissary]]
  +
!Usable by
  +
|-
  +
|[[Zora Link]]
  +
|[[File:Zora Link Sticker.png|80px]]
  +
|'' Majora's Mask
  +
|align=left|Swim Time +60
  +
|All
  +
|}
   
  +
== Trivia ==
{{gallery-header}}
 
  +
*[[Dog]]s will come running up to Zora Link and make a whimpering sound, showing they like him.
  +
*Zora Link still battles with left-hand lead, just like Link's usual form, although Zora Link still plays the guitar right-handed. This may be an error on the part of the programmers, but may also be intentional as an allusion to [[Mikau]] taking over Link's body
  +
*The "putting on the mask" sequence will make Link's eyes big and black and give him a big mouth, much like a combination of the [[Deku Link|Deku Link's]] and [[Goron Link|Goron Link's]] transformation, but this scene can be avoided if Link wears the mask while in Deku or Goron form.
  +
*All Zoras have a fin coming out of their heads. Zora Link has a green, pointed fin, much like his human hat. If Zora Link stays still while floating, standing at the bottom of deep water, or swimming, this fin will elongate, reaching an extraordinay length when fully extended.
  +
*During the game's [[New Day|credits sequence]], Zora Link can be seen playing his guitar with the rest of the Indigo-Go's at the [[Milk Bar]]. This would seem to contradict the assumption that Link leaves Termina at the start of the [[Carnival of Time]].
   
==See also==
+
==Gallery==
  +
<gallery>
*[[Cameos of The Legend of Zelda]]
 
  +
File:Zora_Mask_transformation.jpg|The transformation into Zora Link
  +
File:Zoraelectricfield.jpg|Zora Link's electric aura
  +
File:Zoralinkfins2.png|Zora Link with his fins ready for battle
  +
File:Zoralinkfins.png|Zora Link with his fins ready for battle
  +
</gallery>
   
  +
[[Category:Zoras]]
==References==
 
  +
[[Category:Link Transformations]]
<div class="references-small" style="height:175px; overflow: auto; padding: 5px">
 
<references/>
 
</div>
 
<br>
 
<center>{{Names
 
|English=
 
|Japanese= ゼルダ姫 (''Zeruda-hime'')
 
|Spanish= Princesa Zelda
 
|Spanish(LA)=
 
|Spanish(SP)=
 
|French= Princesse Zelda
 
|French(CA)=
 
|French(FR)=
 
|German= Prinzessin Zelda
 
|Italian= Principessa Zelda
 
}}</center>
 
{{sages}}
 
{{Characters}}
 
{{de|Prinzessin Zelda von Hyrule}}
 
[[Category:Royalty|Z]]
 
[[Category:Hylians|Z]]
 
[[Category:Sages|Z]]
 
[[Category:Bosses|Z]]
 
[[category:Super Smash Bros.|Z]]
 
[[Category:Hyruleans|Z]]
 
[[category:People|Z]]
 
[[Category:Swords]]
 
[[Category:Manga]]
 
[[Category:Comics]]
 

Revision as of 17:38, 10 August 2011

Zora Link 3D
Zora Link's three-dimensional appearance.

Zora Link is the form Link takes after putting on the Zora Mask, and is specific to Majora's Mask.

Story

After Link finds Epona in Romani Ranch, he manages to gain access to the coast of Great Bay, only to find a dying Zora in the waters of the ocean. After bringing him back to the beach, he listens to the last words of the Zora: He, Mikau the guitarist, was trying to retrieve the eggs of the vocalist of his band, Lulu; to do so, he had to enter the stronghold of Pirates' Fortress. However, the Gerudo soldiers within defeated him, and he was sent back to the sea, gravely injured. Because he can't accept death without helping Lulu first, he asks Link to at least calm his soul. Link then plays the Song of Healing and Mikau leaves to him his essence (materialized into the Zora Mask) before dying.

Link then explores the aforementioned fortress, as well as Pinnacle Rock, to retrieve the lost eggs, then goes to the Marine Research Laboratory to leave them in good hands, and finally the Great Bay Temple to purge the ocean from its current state. Because of these tasks, Link's Zora form becomes very important.

Abilities

The item is vital to the Great Bay Temple. Pressing B three times will make him lunge his right arm forward, then swing, attempting to hit something with the left fin, and end with him kicking up in the air, in a three-move combo. Holding the B button, he will put his hands together; by releasing it, his two arm-fins will break off and fly around like Boomerangs, flying in the air and eventually coming back to him. Zora Link can swim like a fish, which is much faster and more freely-controlled than any other incarnation of Link. Just pressing and holding the A button will do it. While doing this, if Link is submerged enough, he can swim towards the surface leap in the air, much like a dolphin. He can also sink, and walk on the bottom of the body of water he is in.

Using the Dolphin Jump is key to defeating Gyorg. If he doesn't use that technique, he'll be chewed by the boss. Zora Link's boomerangs come in handy, and so does his electrical shield: while in the water, pressing the R button creates an electric aura around Zora Link. He can swim into enemies while doing this, and they take damage. Most die from this, but some like Gyorg just take damage. Pressing the R button on land will extend his right fin and make it into a shield. By holding both B and R, it's possible to create an electric aura on land, and moving with it by holding Z (like moving with a normal shield).

Instrument

His version of the Ocarina of Time is the Guitar of Waves. This is the instrument that Mikau played in life as a member of The Indigo-Go's band. This instrument is also required to give effect to the New Wave Bossa Nova melody, vital to help Lulu and to gain access to the Great Bay Temple.

Non-canon Appearances

Super Smash Bros. Brawl

Zora Link appears as a sticker in Super Smash Bros. Brawl.

Name Image Artwork from Effect in The Subspace Emissary Usable by
Zora Link File:Zora Link Sticker.png Majora's Mask Swim Time +60 All

Trivia

  • Dogs will come running up to Zora Link and make a whimpering sound, showing they like him.
  • Zora Link still battles with left-hand lead, just like Link's usual form, although Zora Link still plays the guitar right-handed. This may be an error on the part of the programmers, but may also be intentional as an allusion to Mikau taking over Link's body
  • The "putting on the mask" sequence will make Link's eyes big and black and give him a big mouth, much like a combination of the Deku Link's and Goron Link's transformation, but this scene can be avoided if Link wears the mask while in Deku or Goron form.
  • All Zoras have a fin coming out of their heads. Zora Link has a green, pointed fin, much like his human hat. If Zora Link stays still while floating, standing at the bottom of deep water, or swimming, this fin will elongate, reaching an extraordinay length when fully extended.
  • During the game's credits sequence, Zora Link can be seen playing his guitar with the rest of the Indigo-Go's at the Milk Bar. This would seem to contradict the assumption that Link leaves Termina at the start of the Carnival of Time.

Gallery