Zelda

Japanese

ゼルダ (Zeruda)

First Chronological Appearance

Era of the Goddess Hylia

First Game Appearance

The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword

Creation until the Era of the Hero of Time

Era of the Goddess Hylia & Sky Era

Zelda of the Era of the Goddess Hylia was the first reincarnation of the Goddess Hylia^[1]. In this era, Zelda is not a princess of Hyrule but rather a young woman living in Skyloft. She plays a pivotal role in awakening the powers of Hylia within herself to guide Link on his quest to defeat Demise and establish the foundation for Hyrule. Zelda embodies divine purpose, self-sacrifice, and foresight, understanding her duty as Hylia.

Zelda With the Goddess Harp
Zelda With Her Loftwing

Era of Chaos

Little is known about Zelda during the Era of Chaos. After returning to the Surface at the end of the Sky Era to protect the Triforce, word began to spread about the Great Power leading to untold chaos across the land. Her involvement in the events are unknown.

Era of Prosperity

While exploring under Hyrule Castle in the Era of the Wilds, Zelda was transported back in time to the Era of Prosperity. She was able to reconnect with her bloodline and learn crucial magical capabilities from Sonia. While in the era, she witnessed the Imprisoning War and the sealing of Ganon in the ruins of the Temple of Light.

Princess Zelda (Era of Prosperity)

Force Era

Princess Zelda is depicted as a kind and compassionate ruler with a deep connection to the people of Hyrule. She serves as a unifying figure, bridging the divide between the human world and the Minish, a race of small, magical beings who secretly aid the kingdom. Zelda plays a central role in the narrative when she is cursed by Vaati and transformed into stone, prompting Link’s quest to save her. Her character embodies themes of innocence and selflessness, as she willingly sacrifices her well-being to protect others. By the end of the game, her restoration represents the resilience of Hyrule’s royalty in the face of dark magic.

Late in the Force Era, Princess Zelda assumes a more active role as a protector of Hyrule’s ancient seals. She leads the Shrine Maidens in Four Swords Adventures to reinforce the seal imprisoning Vaati and later confronts Ganon’s rise. Zelda collaborates with Link to defeat Vaati and Ganon, showing her courage and strategic leadership in the face of overwhelming threats.

Princess Zelda (The Minish Cap)
Princess Zelda (Four Swords)

Era of the Hero of Time

As the Princess of Hyrule, Zelda plays a central role in the events of Ocarina of Time. Initially a young girl with prophetic dreams, she aids Link in his quest by entrusting him with the Ocarina of Time and the mission to retrieve the Spiritual Stones. After Ganondorf’s rise to power, Zelda disguises herself as Sheik, a mysterious warrior, and guides Link through the challenges of adulthood. She represents wisdom, resilience, and courage in times of adversity.

Princess Zelda (Child)
Princess Zelda (Adult)
Sheik

Child Timeline

Twilight Era

Zelda is portrayed as a somber and contemplative ruler. After Hyrule falls under Zant’s control, she surrenders to protect her people and becomes a symbol of hope in a bleak world. Though her role is less active than in other titles, she supports Link and Midna in their fight against Zant and Ganon, demonstrating quiet strength and wisdom.

Princess Zelda
Hooded Princess Zelda

Shadow Era

Zelda leads the Shrine Maidens in an effort to seal Vaati and protect Hyrule. She is a more proactive character here, directly involved in the struggle against evil forces threatening the kingdom.

Downfall Timeline

Era of Light and Dark

Zelda is a key figure in Hyrule's struggle against Ganon. Imprisoned by Agahnim, she is rescued by Link and helps guide him in his quest to retrieve the Triforce. As the descendant of the Seven Sages, she plays a vital role in sealing Ganon and restoring peace to the land.

Princess Zelda

Era of Decline

In The Legend of Zelda, Zelda is kidnapped by Ganon and hides the pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom to aid Link in his mission to defeat the villain. In Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, a different Princess Zelda lies in an enchanted slumber due to an ancient curse, representing the legacy and burden of Hyrule's royal family.

Princess Zelda (The Hyrule Fantasy)
Princess Zelda I

Adult Timeline

Era Without a Hero

Princess Zelda, the reigning monarch during this time, is left to face the threat of Ganondorf’s resurgence without the assistance of a Hero. Despite her wisdom and courage, she and the sages are unable to prevent Ganondorf from breaking free. Ganondorf's return leads to the murder of the sages who maintained the seal, further destabilizing Hyrule and eroding its defenses.

Era of the Great Sea

Zelda initially appears as Tetra, a feisty and resourceful pirate captain. Her identity as the Princess of Hyrule is revealed later in the game, adding depth to her character as she reconciles her heritage with her independent nature. She aids Link in the final battle against Ganondorf, wielding the Light Arrows in a climactic showdown.

Princess Zelda (The Wind Waker)
Tetra (The Wind Waker)

Era of the Great Voyage

Though Zelda does not directly appear, her legacy as Tetra continues to influence the narrative. Her bravery and leadership as Tetra guide the story of the crew navigating the Great Sea.

Era of Hyrule's Rebirth

Zelda takes an active role as a companion character. After her body is stolen by Chancellor Cole, her spirit aids Link throughout his journey. She provides tactical support and even controls the Phantom Knights, showcasing a more direct involvement in gameplay than ever before.

Princess Zelda (Spirit Tracks)

Unplaced

Unknown Era

In Echoes of Wisdom, Princess Zelda is portrayed as a figure deeply connected to Hyrule’s forgotten history and its enigmatic ties to the Triforce of Wisdom. This incarnation of Zelda emphasizes her role as a scholar, spiritual guide, and tactician.

Princess Zelda (Echoes of Wisdom)

Era of the Wilds

Zelda is depicted as a scholar who is grappling with the expectations placed on her as the Princess of Hyrule. In Breath of the Wild, her journey centers on unlocking her sealing powers to combat Calamity Ganon, culminating in her selfless act to contain him for 100 years. In Tears of the Kingdom, Zelda sacrifices herself to transform into the Light Dragon, ensuring the survival of Hyrule and aiding Link in defeating the Demon King.