Introduction: The Legacy of The Legend of Zelda on Nintendo’s Hybrid Console

The Legend of Zelda series stands as one of the most celebrated and enduring franchises in the history of video games. Debuting on the Nintendo Entertainment System in 1986, the series follows the adventures of Princess Zelda and hero Link as they battle to protect the kingdom of Hyrule from evil forces, primarily Ganon. Over the decades, Zelda has evolved from classic top-down adventures to sprawling open worlds that captivate millions of players worldwide.

Since the launch of the Nintendo Switch in 2017, Zelda has experienced a renaissance, with groundbreaking titles like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom elevating the franchise to new heights. As we approach 2025, let’s explore every Zelda game available on the Nintendo Switch, including upcoming titles for the next-generation Switch 2 console.

How Many Zelda Titles Are Available on Nintendo Switch?

As of 2025, there are eight Zelda games specifically released for the Nintendo Switch. This includes mainline entries, remakes, spin-offs, and remastered classics. All these titles are compatible with the upcoming Switch 2, ensuring players can enjoy the adventures regardless of the console generation.

All Zelda Games on Nintendo Switch in Chronological Release Order

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – 2017

Launching alongside the Nintendo Switch, Breath of the Wild revolutionized the Zelda series with its open-world design, allowing players to explore Hyrule freely. The story follows Link as he awakens after a century-long slumber, guided by the spirit of Hyrule’s former king to defeat Calamity Ganon and rescue Princess Zelda. The game’s expansive environment and innovative gameplay set a new standard for open-world action-adventure titles.

For an in-depth look, consider reading our comprehensive review of Breath of the Wild.

Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition – 2018

This action-packed hack-and-slash game, developed by Omega Force, originally debuted on Wii U. The Switch version consolidates all content, featuring characters, stages, and modes from the original, along with new costumes inspired by Breath of the Wild. Fans of Dynasty Warriors-style gameplay will find plenty to love in this sprawling adventure that celebrates the entire Zelda universe.

Check out our detailed review of Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition for more insights.

Cadence of Hyrule – 2019

A unique collaboration between Brace Yourself Games and Nintendo, Cadence of Hyrule blends rhythm-based roguelike gameplay with the rich world of Zelda. Featuring a captivating soundtrack and pixel art style reminiscent of classic titles, players join Zelda and Link as they team up with Cadence to thwart the evil Octavo, a musical villain threatening Hyrule. The game offers a fresh take on the franchise while honoring its roots.

Read our full review of Cadence of Hyrule to discover what makes this title stand out.

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening – 2019

This charming remake of the 1993 Game Boy classic was developed by Grezzo. Set on the mysterious Koholint Island, Link must uncover the secrets of the Wind Fish to escape. Unlike more expansive Zelda titles, Link’s Awakening focuses on tight dungeon exploration and puzzle-solving. The remake features enhanced graphics and new gameplay options, making it the definitive way to experience this beloved adventure.

Note: A free update is available to optimize gameplay for the Switch 2.

Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity – 2020

Set a century before the events of Breath of the Wild, Age of Calamity offers an action-packed look at the Great Calamity. Play as your favorite characters, including Link, Zelda, and the Champions, as they battle against Ganon’s forces. Developed by Omega Force, this title expands the lore and provides multiple DLC waves for additional content and replayability.

See our review of Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity for an in-depth analysis.

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD – 2021

An HD remaster of the beloved Wii classic, Skyward Sword HD takes players on a journey from the skies to the surface of Hyrule. Set at the very beginning of the Zelda timeline, Link aims to rescue Zelda and uncover the origins of the Master Sword. The game features motion controls using Joy-Con and a new button-only mode for those who prefer traditional gameplay.

Explore our detailed review of Skyward Sword HD for more insights into this remastered adventure.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – 2023

Released in 2023, Tears of the Kingdom became an instant hit, selling over 10 million copies within just three days and spawning special edition Switch consoles. Set after the events of Breath of the Wild, Link must find Princess Zelda once again as Ganondorf is resurrected. The game expands the world vertically, allowing exploration of both the skies and subterranean depths, resulting in one of the most expansive and immersive Zelda experiences to date.

For a full review, see our coverage of Tears of the Kingdom.

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom – 2024

Following Tears of the Kingdom, Nintendo released Echoes of Wisdom in 2024. This new Zelda game introduces Princess Zelda as the protagonist and features a charming 2D art style inspired by Link’s Awakening. It’s a full-scale adventure that encourages creativity and problem-solving to save Hyrule and Link in ways never seen before. Despite its fresh approach, it remains a core entry in the series, offering deep gameplay and storytelling.

Read our comprehensive review of Echoes of Wisdom. Note that a free update will enhance compatibility on the Switch 2.

Classic Zelda Titles Available via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack

If you’re interested in exploring older Zelda games, Nintendo offers a robust selection through its Switch Online + Expansion Pack service. Currently, the following titles are available:

• The Legend of Zelda
• Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
• The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past
• The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past – Four Swords
• The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
• The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening DX
• The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask
• The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap
• The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages
• The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons
• The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker* (available on Switch 2 only)

*Note: The Wind Waker is part of the GameCube library exclusive to the Switch 2.

What’s Next for Zelda on the Nintendo Switch 2?

The last Zelda game released exclusively for the current Switch was Echoes of Wisdom. Future titles, including new adventures and remakes, are expected to launch on the upcoming Switch 2, which will feature enhanced backward compatibility. Already, some titles like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom have received free updates to take advantage of the new hardware’s capabilities.

During a recent Nintendo Direct focused on Switch 2, a new game titled Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment was announced. Set during the events of Tears of the Kingdom, this action game follows Princess Zelda as she travels back in time to confront Ganondorf. The game is slated for release this winter, promising exciting new gameplay and storylines.

Upcoming Zelda Movie

In addition to games, Nintendo is venturing into film with an upcoming live-action Legend of Zelda movie. The director, Wes Ball, aims to create a more grounded adaptation that combines the epic scope of Zelda with a realistic tone akin to Miyazaki films. The movie is scheduled to hit theaters on March 26, 2027, and fans are eager to see how this legendary franchise translates to the big screen.

Stay Tuned for More Zelda Adventures

For a full list of upcoming Switch titles in 2025 and beyond, keep an eye on official announcements. Nintendo continues to expand the Zelda universe with new stories, remakes, and cinematic projects that promise to keep fans engaged for years to come.