Did Link Like Mipha or Zelda? A Deep Dive into Hyrule’s Heartthrob
The question of who holds Link’s heart, Mipha or Zelda, has sparked fervent debate among Legend of Zelda fans for years. While a definitive answer remains elusive, the evidence suggests that Link’s relationships with both characters are complex and filled with unique forms of affection. Link’s feelings aren’t explicitly stated, leaving much to interpretation. However, by analyzing the games, we can piece together a compelling picture. The short answer is this: Link clearly cares deeply for both Mipha and Zelda, but the nature of his feelings seems to differ significantly between them. His connection with Mipha is rooted in shared experiences and a potential romantic undercurrent, while his relationship with Zelda is often characterized by duty, loyalty, and a developing sense of mutual respect and even love.
Link and Mipha: A Relationship of Mutual Affection
The Breath of the Wild Connection
The strongest evidence for a potential romantic bond between Link and Mipha surfaces in Breath of the Wild. The Japanese translation of the Adventure Log strongly suggests that Mipha harbored romantic feelings for Link, and it indicates that these feelings were reciprocated to some degree. Mipha crafted the Zora Armor specifically for Link, an act that goes beyond mere friendship. The armor, improving his swimming ability and allowing him to ascend waterfalls, is a gift designed with Link’s needs and safety in mind, showcasing Mipha’s deep care. Furthermore, Mipha’s intention of saying “thinking of the person I love” when she finally unlocked her powers is another telling sign.
What Could Have Been
It is implied that had fate not intervened, their relationship could have blossomed into a romantic partnership. The tragic circumstances of Mipha’s death leave a lingering “what if” scenario that deeply resonates with players, further solidifying the sense of a potent, unrealized connection. The narrative heavily hints that Mipha envisioned a future with Link, adding an element of sadness and potential romance to their relationship.
Link and Zelda: A Bond of Duty and Evolving Love
A History of Shared Destiny
Link’s relationship with Zelda across various Zelda titles is one of destiny and shared responsibility. From childhood friends in some games to knight and princess in others, the constant is a bond of mutual trust and support. In Skyward Sword, their connection appears overtly romantic, with Link’s journey heavily focused on rescuing Zelda, and his dialogue often hinting at his deeper affections for her. This connection has been the foundation for the often implied relationship found in many subsequent games.
Platonic to Something More
While their relationship is often interpreted as platonic, particularly in Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom seems to hint at a shift. Zelda moving her belongings into Link’s home suggests a deeper level of intimacy and shared life, blurring the lines between friendship and romance. The level of comfort and care they express towards each other is undeniable. Link’s unwavering loyalty and protectiveness towards Zelda, and Zelda’s unwavering faith in Link’s ability are a recurring element in their dynamic.
Unconfirmed Romance
It’s crucial to note that their relationship has never been officially confirmed as romantic by Nintendo, but the evidence suggests a loving and caring connection. Their bond has moved beyond just a professional one. The idea of them possibly ending up together has been a fan-favorite since the beginning of the series.
The Verdict: Complex Affection
In conclusion, Link’s feelings for Mipha and Zelda are distinct. With Mipha, there’s an implication of a romantic “what could have been,” fueled by shared experiences and her heartfelt dedication. With Zelda, the relationship evolves from a foundation of duty to one of mutual love, care, and a growing sense of partnership. Which “ship” you might prefer is up to you, but it is clear that Link has felt strong emotions towards both characters.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Link in love with Zelda?
While there is no canon confirmation of a romantic relationship between Link and Zelda, many games strongly hint at the potential for one. Their bond often involves deep care, loyalty, and a developing mutual love. Skyward Sword and Tears of the Kingdom offer the strongest evidence of this.
2. Are Link and Zelda dating in Tears of the Kingdom?
Tears of the Kingdom heavily implies a closer relationship between Link and Zelda, as she moves her belongings into his home. However, whether this confirms a romantic relationship is left open to interpretation. It’s certainly more than just platonic, but exactly how the two feel about each other is never explicitly stated.
3. Was Link dating Mipha?
The Japanese translation of Breath of the Wild’s Adventure Log suggests that Mipha and Link shared mutual love and care, with a strong potential for romance under different circumstances. They clearly had a very strong relationship.
4. Who else has a crush on Link in Zelda games?
Other characters such as Malon and Ruto have also shown a strong liking towards Link. Nabooru is also a character that is shown to have a crush on the hero, but she is much older than Link.
5. Has Link ever kissed Zelda?
There is no canonical kiss between Link and Zelda in the games. The closest they’ve come is a hand-holding scene in Spirit Tracks and a kiss with drawn curtains in Adventure of Link.
6. How old is Link in Tears of the Kingdom?
Link is estimated to be around 122-125 years old in Tears of the Kingdom, considering he was about 117 in Breath of the Wild and the time that has passed between both games.
7. Are Link and Sidon in love?
The relationship between Link and Sidon is often interpreted as a close and supportive friendship, though some fans may read into it as having romantic undertones.
8. Can Link and Mipha have a baby?
The article mentioned a fan theory about Mipha and Link having a son named Sidon, but it is not canon. The storyline involving their relationship was entirely fabricated.
9. Did Mipha make the Zora Armor for Link?
Yes, Mipha crafted the Zora Armor specifically for Link in Breath of the Wild, designed to enhance his swimming abilities.
10. What was Mipha going to say to Zelda?
It’s implied that Mipha was going to say “thinking of the person I love,” which refers to Link, tying into the process of unlocking her powers.
11. Is Zelda taller than Link?
Their relative heights vary between games. It should be noted that characters heights are slightly different between games.
12. Is Link mute in Zelda?
Link is not mute; he simply doesn’t speak out loud, although in some titles he expresses himself non-verbally with things like grunts, head shakes, etc.
13. How old is Link in the original Zelda game?
In the first Legend of Zelda game, Link is stated to be 10 years old. However, his age varies across different titles.
14. How old is Mipha?
Mipha is estimated to be around 55 years old in Zora years, roughly the same age as Link and Zelda in Hylian years, making them about the same age.
15. Why do Link and Zelda never officially get together?
Their relationships are often complicated by political reasons, duties, or differing standings. There can also be age gaps, but ultimately it comes down to not being a focus for the series, with the main focus being on the adventure instead of focusing on romance.