The attention to detail in Zelda is part of what makes the series so enchanting, and the designs of its boss keys are a perfect example of such detail. After besting beasts and puzzles to make your way through a potentially challenging dungeon, it always feels like a major triumph when you finally open that fateful treasure chest and out pops a Big Key. But which one epitomizes that feeling for you– which key brings a smile to your face just thinking about it?

My assessment is based primarily on the in-game appearance of the keys because those are the ones that sparked so much joy while I played, even though some of the concept art for them might be somewhat slicker. 

 

For me, the Big Keys from Ocarina of Time are the most glorious. This game is just fantastic, and its dungeons and temples are a real testament to that. They’re tough but balanced, beautiful, and perfectly soundtracked. But they didn’t stop there because once you’re almost all the way through this lovely experience you come upon a big, fancy treasure chest. When you open it a glowing light emanates from within it and Link takes his sweet time lifting that key out of there while triumphant fanfare builds! Then you hold aloft the shiniest key you ever did see with a ruby red crystal at its center. I have nothing but positive things to say about this key, except that the details added to it in Ocarina of Time 3D really reduce its majesty (even if they do make it more faithful to the original artistic renderings). 

A Link to the Past’s Big Keys are a close second because look how cute they are! I know they’re supposed to look like monsters, but they look more like angry little baby dragons. I would love a plush pillow of one of these cuties. Suffice to say they were a wonderful little reward for getting through a dungeon, and some of the dungeons in A Link to the Past were tricky too so a few of these felt like a real godsend. 

Finally, I might be weird for this one but the Puzzle Keys from Skyward Sword are a real favorite of mine. While often clunky and presenting yet another puzzle before entry into the boss fight, I always loved maneuvering these little guys around to find the right fit. To me they’re as satisfying as the other keys I mentioned because it’s a really simple task to perform– it’s an almost meditative ritual before the hysteria of battle. 

Some honorable mentions both good and bad: The Wind Waker keys have a great look, but didn’t really excite me when I found them because the Temples didn’t feel like much of a challenge. And clearly, Twilight Princess’ keys are the worst. Don’t get me wrong, I love the game’s aesthetic but that Big Key is as drab as they come. 

Which boss key is the standout for you? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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