Daily Debate: Should Princess Zelda Be Classified as a Sage in Future Zelda Games?
Posted on September 10 2018 by Michaela El-Ters
Ocarina of Time was a groundbreaking game, developing a rich tapestry of complex storytelling, memorable character interactions, and innovative game design. Unique in many ways, Ocarina of Time also did something no other Zelda game has done since then — Princess Zelda was not only the holder of the Triforce of Wisdom, but she was also the seventh Sage and their leader. It’s unclear what elemental power she wielded, but it’s often theorized that she was the Sage of Time, which would be thematically appropriate and reinforce her presence guiding Link in the form of Sheik. Unfortunately, it was such a cool idea that wasn’t explored…at all.
Sages are focal points to the lore and stories of Zelda games, but it’s unclear how the melding of Triforce and Sage powers work. Did it make Princess Zelda even more powerful than before? How and when was Zelda awakened as the seventh sage, and what did it mean for her? Did she awaken as a child after her prophetic dreams, and did she know what to do with the powers granted to her as a Sage on top of being a Triforce wielder?
Because of this missed opportunity to explore the Sage’s powers and its impact on Zelda herself, it’s something I’d love to see another Zelda game do someday. It would offer a unique opportunity to expand on the capabilities of the Sages and the powers the Triforce grants to an individual. Would the combination of power make Zelda even more powerful than before? How would Zelda balance her duties as the princess defending Hyrule while being capable of wielding massive power if she wanted to? Would these abilities overwhelm her? All of these questions could result in a fascinating story and cement her resolve to use her abilities for the greater good.
What do you think? Would you want to see Princess Zelda as a Sage in future installment of the Zelda series? Let us know in the comments!
Feature art by Kevin Hong and 美夜
Michaela El-Ters is a Senior Editor for Zelda Dungeon. She is also an Senior Writer for Boss Rush Network, and writes blogs and streams games on Objection Network. Her favorite Zelda game changes with the seasons, but the series as a whole is near and dear to her heart.
