Daily Debate: What is The Most Underrated Zelda Game?
Posted on March 27 2020 by Alexandria Weber
Highlights of the Zelda series, such as Ocarina of Time or Breath of the Wild, stand as staples of the franchise. As a result, however, they tend to outshine other gems, as other games are pushed to the “back burner” and regarded with less value. Whether judging based on nostalgia, quality, accessibility, or attention in the media, some Zelda games tend to fall through the cracks.
I would say that Spirit Tracks or The Minish Cap never quite get the attention they deserve. The Minish Cap is a culmination of Nintendo’s genius when it comes to 2D top-down titles, masterfully bringing together elements of A Link to the Past and Link’s Awakening, and taking the best of those titles to create something really special. The Minish Cap is an important step on the road to A Link Between Worlds and, in a way, so is Spirit Tracks. The DS titles are often pushed aside and while I can’t defend Phantom Hourglass, Spirit Tracks improved upon the faults in that game in massive ways. The story subverts expectations in engaging ways, introduces game mechanics in a way that it is apparent how they’ve improved, and has a soundtrack that is arguably one of the best in the series.
My own opinions aside, there are games I haven’t played for lack of accessibility like Four Swords and Oracle of Seasons/Ages. Perhaps this speaks to their own version of being overshadowed. After all, games like The Wind Waker and Twilight Princess are featured across multiple platforms.
What do you think? Are there Zelda games that deserve more time in the sun? Let us know in the comments below!
Alexandria Weber is a Senior Editor and an aspiring creative writer. Her favorite food is apple pie and she loves her cat Galadriel. Ask her for pictures!
