The Legend of Zelda franchise, a cornerstone of gaming history, has found a new home on the Nintendo Switch. Since its 1986 NES debut, the series, chronicling Princess Zelda and Link's battles against Ganon, has consistently captivated players. The Switch, however, has propelled Zelda to unprecedented heights, thanks to the phenomenal success of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. With the recent release of Echoes of Wisdom, it's an opportune moment to review the Switch's Zelda offerings, especially considering the upcoming Switch 2 and its implications for future Hyrule adventures.
The Switch's Zelda Collection: A Comprehensive Overview
A total of eight distinct Zelda titles grace the Nintendo Switch library (excluding Nintendo Switch Online offerings). These span mainline entries and spin-offs, released between 2017 and 2024. The list below details each game in chronological order:
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - 2017
A revolutionary entry, Breath of the Wild redefined Zelda gameplay with its unprecedented open-world design. Link awakens after a century-long slumber, tasked with rescuing Princess Zelda from Calamity Ganon.
Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.
### The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild - Nintendo Switch
9See it at Amazon
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition - 2018
This action-packed hack-and-slash title, originally on Wii U, features characters from across the Zelda universe. The Definitive Edition for Switch includes all content from the original, plus Breath of the Wild-inspired costumes.
Read our review of Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition.
### Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition - Nintendo Switch
9See it at Amazon
Cadence of Hyrule - 2019
A unique collaboration, blending Crypt of the NecroDancer's rhythm-based gameplay with the Zelda universe. This spin-off boasts a captivating soundtrack and charming pixel art.
Read our review of Cadence of Hyrule.
### Cadence of Hyrule - Nintendo Switch
4See it at Walmart
The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening - 2019
A remake of the beloved 1993 Game Boy classic. Link is shipwrecked on Koholint Island, where he must unravel the Wind Fish's mystery.
Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity - 2020
A prequel to Breath of the Wild, set 100 years prior to its events. Experience the battle against Calamity Ganon through the eyes of familiar characters.
Read our review of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity.
### Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity - Switch
10See it at Amazon
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD - 2021
A remastered version of the Wii classic, featuring both motion controls and a button-only option. Explore the origins of the Master Sword.
Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD.
### The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD - Nintendo Switch
8See it at Walmart
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - 2023
A direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, featuring an expansive world spanning both the surface and the skies of Hyrule.
Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom.
### The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - Nintendo Switch
13See it at Amazon
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom - 2024
The latest addition, featuring Princess Zelda as the protagonist in a unique 2D style.
Read our review of The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom.
### The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom - Switch
6See it at Target
Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack: A Retro Zelda Experience
For fans of classic Zelda games, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack offers a selection of titles from previous consoles.
The Future of Zelda on Switch
Echoes of Wisdom likely marks the final Zelda release before the Switch 2 launch. While backward compatibility details are still emerging, expect the Switch 2 to offer access to this impressive Zelda collection. Furthermore, a live-action Zelda movie is in development, promising a new dimension to the franchise.
