Daily Debate: Should Link Ever Talk in a Zelda Game?
Posted on June 21 2021 by Chakell Herbert
When I played through Breath of the Wild for the first time and I found the memory of Link and Zelda riding on horseback at sunset, I was pleasantly surprised when Zelda mentioned the advice Link gave her about bonding with her steed.
Link actually said something to her?! And we got to hear his exact words? It was unheard of (yes, I know that he does indeed talk, but this time it was different)! That instance got me thinking… Do I want to actually hear Link’s voice one day? Do I want him to talk openly like all other characters do? Sometimes I can’t quite say for sure if that is something I would like to see.
But for one thing, I love when Link has depth and wears his heart on his sleeve. In early games, he was portrayed as a blank slate–flawless and stoic to the end. But in recent games, he shows much more emotion in his facial expressions and body language (the moment where Zelda seals herself in Skyward Sword and he lets out a sob just about broke me). He often gives witty and sassy comebacks when talking to other characters, (which implies that he has a sense of humor), and according to Zelda’s diary in her malice-filled room in Hyrule Castle, she mentions that he confided in her about the intense pressure he feels about fulfilling his role as the hero (in other words, he does have flaws).
I get that in the beginning of the series, Link was supposed to act as a sort of avatar for the player and connection to the game, but over the years, he has become an adored, unique character who shows deep emotion, has unique relationships with other characters, and even feels insecure at times (after all, he might be awesome, but he really is only a teenager). In my opinion, I would love to see Link’s character keep evolving over time as the series goes on, and I can’t wait to see how the Link we have come to know and love in the Breath of the Wild universe will keep growing in the sequel. And if it involves him uttering even a sentence or two, I don’t think I would be opposed to be honest.
What about you? Do you think Link should be given a voice in future Zelda games? Let me know in the comments below!
Chakell (pronounced shuh-kell) is an associate editor for Zelda Dungeon! She has loved The Legend of Zelda series since she was a little girl because of its equal mix of princesses, besting bad guys, and heartfelt stories. Chakell lives in the overall tame state of Utah, but holds onto her childhood hopes to find an adventure in her backyard one day. She has a degree in English and is a full-time editor for a magazine. You can usually find her gaming (obviously), laughing with her husband, taking a long time to tell stories because she keeps getting distracted; getting sucked into books and podcasts; or snuggling her cute Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
