Daily Debate: Are 2D Zelda Games Underrated Compared to the 3D Games?

With a series that has taken as many forms as The Legend of Zelda has, it can be difficult to separate them into distinct categories. One fairly objective metric that can be used is the perspective, either 2D or 3D (2.5D games fall into the former category as they use 2D movement and environment design). Prior to Ocarina of Time, the series was exclusively 2-dimensional and more games in this perspective have been released since than the alternative. Despite this, I’ve always gotten the sense that the 2D games don’t get the same level of respect or recognition as the 3D games. What do you think? Are the 2D Zelda games underrated compared to the 3D games?

It’s undeniable that 3-dimensional characters and environments have been the standard method of presentation for about 20 years. For most mainstream releases, 3D design is more or less a forgone conclusion. As one of the most prominent franchises in the industry, The Legend of Zelda has made the relatively unique decision to continue producing games in the 2D style of it’s past, alongside bigger budget 3D titles. Thanks to the overwhelming prominence of 3D games in the mainstream industry, these Zelda games often seem to get more attention and accolades than their 2D siblings. It almost feels as though the 3D games are seen as the “main series” and the 2D games constitute a “sub-series”. Most people list a collection of the 3D titles among their favorites in the series, leaving the 2D titles lower on the list if they’ve been played at all. Personally, my favorite Zelda game is Ocarina of Time, but I definitely prefer the 2D games in general. I feel many of these 2D classics are relegated to afterthought status and don’t get the attention that they deserve.

What do you think? Am I crazy? Are the 2D games as heralded as the 3D games? Let us know in the comments below!

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