Which Zelda Game is Easier? A Comprehensive Guide
The question of which Legend of Zelda game is the easiest is a bit nuanced, as “easy” can be subjective. However, based on player experiences, critical reception, and available data, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild emerges as the most approachable and arguably the easiest game in the series for newcomers and seasoned players alike. Its open-world design, forgiving combat system, and flexible difficulty progression allow players to adapt to its challenges at their own pace, making it less punishing than many other entries.
While some long-time fans might argue about the lack of traditional dungeon structures or puzzles, Breath of the Wild’s emphasis on exploration and player freedom results in a significantly less rigid and stressful gameplay experience compared to many other titles in the franchise. The game’s systems, while deep, are relatively easy to grasp and can be exploited creatively, further softening the difficulty curve. For new players, the ability to tackle objectives in almost any order and the absence of strict game overs contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable experience, making it stand out as the easiest in the series.
Why Breath of the Wild is Considered Easier
The reasons for Breath of the Wild’s lower difficulty are multifaceted:
- Open World Freedom: Unlike the linear progression of older Zelda games, Breath of the Wild allows players to explore the vast world of Hyrule at their own pace. This freedom means players can avoid challenging areas until they are better equipped, making the initial hours of play less daunting.
- Flexible Combat: The combat system in Breath of the Wild is more forgiving than some previous entries. Players have access to a variety of weapons, shields, and defensive maneuvers, which, combined with the ability to cook and use healing items liberally, makes even tough fights manageable.
- Emphasis on Exploration over Puzzles: While there are puzzles to solve in shrines, they are generally shorter and less complex than the elaborate dungeons found in earlier games. The primary focus is on exploration and discovery, rather than meticulously solving intricate puzzles.
- Less Punishing Death System: Unlike some Zelda games that send players back to the beginning of a dungeon or area after death, Breath of the Wild usually respawns players near where they fell with minimal penalty. This encourages experimentation and reduces frustration.
- Adaptable Difficulty: The game’s difficulty naturally progresses as players explore and gain experience. But, unlike some titles where progression is tied to specific items and boss fights, BotW allows players to choose the level of challenge they want.
Counterarguments
While the evidence suggests Breath of the Wild is easier overall, it’s essential to address some counterarguments:
- Initial Learning Curve: While the game is designed to be accessible, it has a learning curve, especially for understanding the physics-based systems, cooking, and combat mechanics. This initial learning period might be perceived as difficult for some beginners.
- Enemy Scaling: As players progress, enemies become more powerful, leading to some difficult encounters. However, this difficulty is not static. Players can always adjust by exploring other areas, upgrading gear, or improving combat skills.
- Optional Challenges: Breath of the Wild also includes highly challenging optional areas, such as the Trial of the Sword, which provides a significant spike in difficulty for players seeking a tough test. These areas, however, do not undermine the general ease of the main game’s progression.
The Easiest vs. Hardest Zelda Games
It’s also important to look at where Breath of the Wild lands in the context of other Zelda games. Titles such as Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, The Legend of Zelda, and Oracle of Ages are typically ranked among the hardest in the series, largely due to their challenging combat, complex puzzles, and limited health recovery. In contrast, games like Twilight Princess, while possessing a different style, are often seen as more straightforward, but still more challenging than Breath of the Wild.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which Zelda game is the hardest in the series?
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is widely considered the hardest Zelda game due to its unforgiving combat, complex platforming, and a significant shift from the traditional Zelda formula.
2. Is Tears of the Kingdom harder than Breath of the Wild?
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom introduces more complex mechanics and enemies, leading some players to find it initially more challenging than Breath of the Wild. However, the ability to exploit these mechanics creatively can ultimately make it easier.
3. Which Zelda game is best for beginners?
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is frequently recommended for beginners due to its accessible gameplay, freedom of exploration, and relatively forgiving difficulty curve.
4. Do I need to play Zelda games in order?
No, each Zelda game typically offers a standalone story. You can play them in any order, although some games like Tears of the Kingdom build on the narrative of Breath of the Wild.
5. Is Breath of the Wild too difficult for kids?
While there is a learning curve, Breath of the Wild is not generally considered too hard for children. It may require some guidance and patience, but the game’s systems are relatively easy to learn with practice.
6. Which Zelda game has the most puzzles?
Ocarina of Time and A Link to the Past are known for their elaborate and challenging dungeon puzzles. Many view these titles as having more traditional and intricate puzzles than other entries.
7. Is Twilight Princess an easy Zelda game?
While not as easy as Breath of the Wild, Twilight Princess is generally considered to be among the less difficult entries in the series, though it still presents a fair challenge.
8. What is the shortest Zelda game to complete?
The original Legend of Zelda is typically the shortest game to complete. Its speedruns highlight just how quickly it can be finished once you know what to do.
9. Is Majora’s Mask hard?
Majora’s Mask is often cited as one of the harder Zelda games, particularly due to its time limit mechanic, which can be stressful for new players.
10. Why is Tears of the Kingdom harder than Breath of the Wild for some players?
Tears of the Kingdom has more challenging enemies, especially early on, and introduces the complexity of fusion and new abilities which can overwhelm those unfamiliar with its systems.
11. Can I play Tears of the Kingdom if I’ve never played Zelda before?
Yes, Tears of the Kingdom can be enjoyed even without prior experience with the series, but playing Breath of the Wild first might help with understanding its story and mechanics.
12. Which Zelda game has the best story?
Many fans consider Ocarina of Time, Majora’s Mask, and The Wind Waker to have some of the most compelling and emotionally resonant stories in the Zelda series.
13. Is Breath of the Wild a lonely game?
Breath of the Wild often gives a sense of solitude, but this is deliberate as it reflects the aftermath of the calamity and Link’s personal journey.
14. Are older Zelda games harder than newer ones?
Generally speaking, earlier titles like Zelda II and The Legend of Zelda tend to be harder due to their more punishing design and less forgiving mechanics. Newer titles like Breath of the Wild lean toward being more accessible.
15. How long does it take to play every Zelda game?
Playing through every main canon Zelda game can take approximately 360 hours just for the main story, and up to 750 hours for a 100% completion run.
Conclusion
While difficulty is subjective, The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild stands out as the most accessible and, arguably, the easiest game in the Zelda franchise. Its open-world design, flexible combat, forgiving systems, and reduced emphasis on complex puzzles create a more relaxed and adaptable experience, making it an ideal starting point for new players. While other Zelda games offer their own unique challenges, Breath of the Wild has redefined the series with its approachability, ultimately making it the easiest in the long-running franchise.