Editing Princess Zelda (section)

==Appearances==
===''The Legend of Zelda'' series===
Princess Zelda has appeared in most of ''The Legend of Zelda'' games, but there have been several games where she does not make an appearance, such as ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening|Link's Awakening]]'' (1993),<ref>{{Cite web |last=Webster |first=Andrew |date=2019-09-19 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is like a brand-new Zelda adventure on Switch |url=https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/19/20871958/legend-of-zelda-links-awakening-review-nintendo-switch-updates-graphics |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=The Verge |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107180812/https://www.theverge.com/2019/9/19/20871958/legend-of-zelda-links-awakening-review-nintendo-switch-updates-graphics |url-status=live }}</ref> ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask|Majora's Mask]]'' (2000), where she only appears in a flashback,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dring |first=Chris |date=2015-02-16 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask review – definitive take on one of Nintendo's best |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/feb/16/legend-zelda-majoras-mask-review-nintendo-3ds |access-date=2024-01-07 |work=The Observer |language=en-GB |issn=0029-7712 |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107175740/https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2015/feb/16/legend-zelda-majoras-mask-review-nintendo-3ds |url-status=live }}</ref> and ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes|Tri Force Heroes]]'' (2015).<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |date=2015-10-23 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Triforce Heroes Preview - You Won't Be Saving Zelda Or Playing Two-Player Co-Op |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/the_legend_of_zelda_triforce_heroes/b/3ds/archive/2015/06/17/you-won-39-t-be-saving-zelda-in-triforce-heroes.aspx |access-date=2024-01-07 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107180414/https://www.gameinformer.com/games/the_legend_of_zelda_triforce_heroes/b/3ds/archive/2015/06/17/you-won-39-t-be-saving-zelda-in-triforce-heroes.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> Due to being the titular character, it is a common misconception amongst non-players that Zelda is the protagonist of the series, when she is almost always a [[Non-player character|non-playable character]].<ref name=":0" />

Zelda made her debut in the original ''[[The Legend of Zelda (video game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' (1986), where she is kidnapped by Ganon, who seeks to steal the Triforce of Wisdom. Before her capture, she scatters the eight pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom across the land and sends her nursemaid Impa to find Link, who eventually rescues her.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Cristina |date=2023-08-25 |title=How to Play The Legend of Zelda Games in Chronological Order |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-games-in-order |access-date=2023-11-19 |website=[[IGN]] |language=en |archive-date=2023-07-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230730144902/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-games-in-order |url-status=live }}</ref> She returns in the sequel, ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link]]'' (1987), where Link discovers that she has been cursed into an eternal slumber and can only be revived by the Triforce of Courage.<ref name=":2" /> Link breaks the curse by retrieving the Triforce and use its power to awaken her.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web |last=Mackey |first=Bob |date=2013-11-22 |title=The Legend of Zelda Timeline |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/legend-of-zelda-timeline/ |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=[[GamesRadar+]] |language=en |archive-date=2023-11-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231118000951/https://www.gamesradar.com/legend-of-zelda-timeline/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Zelda rewards Link with a kiss at the end of the game.<ref name=":13" /> In ''[[A Link to the Past]]'' (1991), Zelda is one of seven maidens descended from sages who sealed away Ganon during the Imprisoning War, a battle fought against Ganon's army.<ref name=":14" /> After being kidnapped by the dark wizard Agahnim, she telepathically pleads with Link to rescue her. After, she and the other maidens assist Link in breaking the seal on Ganon's tower so that Link may defeat the villain.<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |last=Needleman |first=Ariel |date=2017-07-04 |title=Ranking The Different Versions Of Princess Zelda From Worst To Best |url=https://www.thegamer.com/ranking-the-different-versions-of-princess-zelda-from-worst-to-best/ |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=TheGamer |language=en |archive-date=2023-07-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230723182632/https://www.thegamer.com/ranking-the-different-versions-of-princess-zelda-from-worst-to-best/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Zelda initially appears as a child and later as an adult in ''[[Ocarina of Time]]'' (1998). Suspicious of Ganondorf's intentions, she sends Link on his quest to open the door to the Sacred Realm to obtain the [[Master Sword]] and Triforce. When Ganondorf reveals his wicked intentions, Zelda flees Hyrule Castle and goes into hiding, giving Link the Ocarina of Time. Seven years later, she poses as a mysterious Sheikah named Sheik and guides him on his quest to save Hyrule's Sages from Ganondorf.<ref name=":15" />

In [[The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages|''Oracle of Seasons'' and ''Oracle of Ages'']] (2001), Zelda only appears after inputting a secret code that is obtained upon completion.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-11-21|title=Legend Of Zelda Games That Don't Actually Have Zelda In Them|url=https://screenrant.com/legend-zelda-games-no-princess-character-disguise/|access-date=2021-12-14|website=[[Screen Rant]]|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-12-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211213032635/https://screenrant.com/legend-zelda-games-no-princess-character-disguise/|url-status=live}}</ref> After sensing danger in the lands of Holodrum and Labrynna, she sends her handmaiden Impa to protect [[Recurring characters in The Legend of Zelda series#Din|Din]] and [[Recurring characters in The Legend of Zelda series#Nayru|Nayru]], the Oracle of Seasons and Ages, respectively. In the full linked game, Zelda is captured by [[Recurring characters in The Legend of Zelda series#Twinrova|Twinrova]], who plans to sacrifice her in order to resurrect Ganon, but Link intervenes and defeats him in the final boss battle.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-09-20|title=The Oracle Games Were Some Of Zelda's Finest Hours|url=https://www.thegamer.com/the-oracle-games-were-some-of-zeldas-finest-hours/|access-date=2022-01-30|website=TheGamer|language=en-US|archive-date=2022-01-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220130224453/https://www.thegamer.com/the-oracle-games-were-some-of-zeldas-finest-hours/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Four Swords|Four Swords]]'' (2002) presents Princess Zelda as one of many descendants protecting the seal on the Four Sword. While taking Link to the Four Sword Sanctuary, which seals the evil sorcerer [[Recurring characters in The Legend of Zelda series#Vaati|Vaati]], she senses the seal's power is diminishing and is captured by [[Vaati]], who takes her to his Palace of Winds to marry her. She is again rescued by Link and they seal Vaati away.<ref name=":15" /> Zelda's incarnation in ''[[The Wind Waker]]'' (2002) is unaware of her royal identity and lives as the pirate captain Tetra.<ref name=":7" /> When Link's younger sister Aryll is kidnapped by the Helmaroc King, she agrees to help him explore the islands with her pirate crew.<ref name=":2" /> Ganondorf discovers Tetra's true identity when the Triforce of Wisdom is repaired.<ref name=":16" /> In the final boss battle against Ganondorf, she assists Link by using his bow to shoot arrows of light.<ref>{{Cite magazine |last=Harmon |first=O'Dell |title=Moments: Wind Waker's Last Battle |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/11/07/moments-wind-waker-39-s-last-battle.aspx |access-date=2024-01-07 |magazine=Game Informer |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107225829/https://www.gameinformer.com/b/features/archive/2012/11/07/moments-wind-waker-39-s-last-battle.aspx |url-status=live }}</ref> In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures|Four Swords Adventures]]'' (2004), Zelda fears Vaati's return and attempts to reseal him. While doing so, Dark Link captures Zelda and her six maidens. To save them, Link uses the Four Sword but accidentally frees Vaati.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-06-07|title=15 years later, Four Swords Adventures is still the best multiplayer Zelda game|url=https://www.destructoid.com/15-years-later-four-swords-adventures-is-still-the-best-multiplayer-zelda-game/|access-date=2022-01-30|website=Destructoid|language=en-CA|archive-date=2022-01-30|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220130235336/https://www.destructoid.com/15-years-later-four-swords-adventures-is-still-the-best-multiplayer-zelda-game/|url-status=live}}</ref> After Link rescues Zelda, Ganon is revealed to be behind the plan. Following Vaati's defeat, Zelda helps Link to defeat Ganon by giving him the Magic Bow.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-07|title=Legend Of Zelda: Every Version Of Ganon Ranked By Power|url=https://www.thegamer.com/legend-zelda-ganon-versions-ranked-power/|access-date=2022-01-30|website=TheGamer|language=en-US|archive-date=2022-05-29|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220529193921/http://www.thegamer.com/legend-zelda-ganon-versions-ranked-power/|url-status=live}}</ref>

In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap|The Minish Cap]]'' (2004), Zelda is petrified by Vaati, who shatters the Picori Blade and breaks the seal, allowing evil to spread across Hyrule. Link is tasked with saving Zelda by restoring the Picori Blade.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Crites|first=Jacob|date=2011-12-19|title=Review: The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap (3DS eShop / GBA)|url=https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/3ds-eshop/legend_of_zelda_the_minish_cap_gba|access-date=2022-01-31|website=Nintendo Life|language=en-GB|archive-date=2022-01-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220131092022/https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/3ds-eshop/legend_of_zelda_the_minish_cap_gba|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Twilight Princess]]'' (2006) centers around the Twilight King Zant's invasion of Hyrule, where Zelda is forced to surrender. When Link is transformed into a wolf by the Twilight Realm's power, he and his companion [[Midna]] work together to free Hyrule by first defeating Zant and then Ganondorf.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Crossley |first=Rob |date=1 March 2016 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD Review |url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-legend-of-zelda-twilight-princess-hd-review/1900-6416369/ |access-date=2024-01-06 |website=GameSpot |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-06-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230616231007/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-legend-of-zelda-twilight-princess-hd-review/1900-6416369/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Zelda appears as one of the game's bosses, having been possessed by Ganondorf's dark magic.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Fahey |first=Mike |date=2015-12-17 |title=New Zelda Statue Captures The Princess In Her Most Disturbing Moment |url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2015/12/new-zelda-statue-captures-the-princess-in-her-most-disturbing-moment/ |access-date=2024-01-06 |website=Kotaku |language=en-AU |archive-date=2024-01-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240106213803/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2015/12/new-zelda-statue-captures-the-princess-in-her-most-disturbing-moment/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> In the final boss battle, she accompanies Link on horseback and helps him in combat by stunning Ganondorf with Light Arrows.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2022-01-27|title=Zelda: Every Twilight Princess Boss, Ranked By Difficulty|url=https://www.cbr.com/zelda-every-twilight-princess-boss-ranked-difficulty/|access-date=2022-01-31|website=[[Comic Book Resources]]|language=en-US|archive-date=2022-01-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220131060939/https://www.cbr.com/zelda-every-twilight-princess-boss-ranked-difficulty/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Phantom Hourglass]]'' (2007) continues Zelda's storyline as Tetra. When she is turned to stone and kidnapped by a Ghost Ship, Link jumps overboard and is rescued by a fairy named Ciela. In order to save Tetra, he must sail with Ciela and a sea captain named Linebeck to find the guardians of Power, Wisdom, and Courage.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Miller|first=Zachary|date=5 October 2007|title=The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass Review - Review|url=http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/14526/the-legend-of-zelda-phantom-hourglass-nintendo-ds|access-date=2022-01-31|website=Nintendo World Report|archive-date=2022-01-31|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220131223637/http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/review/14526/the-legend-of-zelda-phantom-hourglass-nintendo-ds|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[Spirit Tracks]]'' (2009) Zelda meets Link at his graduation ceremony as a railroad engineer. After being attacked by villainous Chancellor Cole, her spirit is separated from her body and she accompanies Link on his quest.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Stone|first=Abbie|date=2021-06-24|title=Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks was a flawed series entry that shined a long-overdue spotlight on its title character|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/uk/legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracks-retrospective/|access-date=2022-02-01|website=[[GamesRadar+]]|language=en|archive-date=2022-02-01|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220201234610/https://www.gamesradar.com/uk/legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracks-retrospective/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Spirit Tracks'' features Zelda as a playable cooperative character. In her spirit form, she can possess Phantom Knights and perform various tasks to help Link restore the Spirit Tracks.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Welsh |first=Oli |date=2009-12-08 |title=Page 2 {{!}} The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/the-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracks-review?page=2#:~:text=In%20gameplay%20terms,%20Zelda%20only,of%20the%20game's%20regular%20temples. |access-date=2024-01-05 |work=Eurogamer.net |language=en |archive-date=2024-01-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240105235412/https://www.eurogamer.net/the-legend-of-zelda-spirit-tracks-review?page=2#:~:text=In%20gameplay%20terms,%20Zelda%20only,of%20the%20game's%20regular%20temples. |url-status=live }}</ref>

Though not a princess in ''[[Skyward Sword]]'' (2011), Zelda is presented as the reincarnation of the goddess Hylia and a close childhood friend to Link. When she is spirited away in a tornado conjured by the demon lord Ghirahim, Link travels to the Surface and reunites with her after opening the Gate of Time. Ghirahim drags Zelda to the past and uses her power to release the antagonist Demise to change past events. After Link defeats Demise in battle, he and Zelda remain on the Surface to establish Hyrule Kingdom.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-07-20|title='Skyward Sword' Ending Explained: And So 'The Legend of Zelda' Begins|url=https://collider.com/skyward-sword-ending-explained/|access-date=2022-02-02|website=Collider|language=en-US|archive-date=2023-05-21|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230521150017/https://collider.com/skyward-sword-ending-explained/|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[A Link Between Worlds]]'' (2013), Zelda entrusts the Pendant of Courage to Link when the sorcerer Yuga begins capturing the descendants of the Seven Sages. After Yuga turns Zelda into a painting and casts her into the dying world of Lorule, Link follows him into Lorule to rescue Zelda and the sages.<ref name=":15" /> Princess Hilda of Lorule conspires with Yuga to steal the Triforce of Wisdom and Triforce of Courage to save her own kingdom, but eventually makes amends by returning Link and Zelda to Hyrule, where they use the Triforce to restore Lorule.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McEvoy |first=Sophie |date=2023-02-23 |title=The Legend Of Zelda: 6 Villains Who Weren't Always Evil |url=https://gamerant.com/legend-zelda-villains-werent-always-evil/ |access-date=2023-11-20 |website=Game Rant |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230531233319/https://gamerant.com/legend-zelda-villains-werent-always-evil/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the backstory of ''[[Breath of the Wild]]'' (2017), Zelda's story is revealed in a series of Link's memories. When Calamity Ganon attacks Hyrule using ancient Sheikah machinery, Zelda awakens her sacred power while protecting Link, sending him to the Shrine of Resurrection and sealing Calamity Ganon and herself in Hyrule Castle. After a century, she awakens Link and in the final battle, gives him the Bow of Light to defeat Dark Beast Ganon.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-05-11 |title=Do I need to play Breath of the Wild before Tears of the Kingdom? |url=https://www.polygon.com/legend-zelda-tears-kingdom/23719659/zelda-tears-kingdom-breath-wild-botw-2-need-to-play-before-totk-story |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107224652/https://www.polygon.com/legend-zelda-tears-kingdom/23719659/zelda-tears-kingdom-breath-wild-botw-2-need-to-play-before-totk-story |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Lambie |first=Ryan |date=2017-04-11 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild Spoilers - Where Next for the Series? |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-spoilers-where-next-for-the-series/ |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240107224652/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-breath-of-the-wild-spoilers-where-next-for-the-series/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In the sequel, ''[[Tears of the Kingdom]]'' (2023), Zelda and Link accidentally awaken Ganondorf beneath Hyrule Castle, where she consequently falls into an abyss and disappears into the distant past. In the time of the Zonai, she meets Hyrule's first king Rauru and his wife Sonia, who help her to use her sacred power to restore the decayed Master Sword. Aware of Ganondorf's threat, she sacrifices herself by swallowing a Secret Stone, transforming into the Light Dragon, which provides her with the immortality to return the Master Sword to Link.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Watts |first=Steve |date=25 May 2023 |title=Zelda: Tears Of The Kingdom Inverts One Of The Oldest Story Tropes |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-inverts-one-of-the-oldest-story-tropes/1100-6514567/ |access-date=2023-05-28 |website=[[GameSpot]] |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528232022/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-inverts-one-of-the-oldest-story-tropes/1100-6514567/ |url-status=live }}</ref> After Ganondorf's defeat, she is transformed back into a Hylian by the power of time and light.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Tom |date=2023-05-23 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Ending Explained |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-ending-explained |access-date=2023-05-29 |website=[[IGN]] |language=en |archive-date=2023-05-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529063013/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-ending-explained |url-status=live }}</ref>

In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom|Echoes of Wisdom]]'' (2024), Zelda is featured as the protagonist.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dinsdale |first=Ryan |date=2024-06-18 |title=The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom Announced for Nintendo Switch With Zelda as Protagonist |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-echoes-of-wisdom-announced-for-nintendo-switch-with-zelda-as-protagonist |access-date=2024-06-18 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=2024-06-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240618143419/https://www.ign.com/articles/the-legend-of-zelda-echoes-of-wisdom-announced-for-nintendo-switch-with-zelda-as-protagonist |url-status=live }}</ref> It is the first mainline ''Zelda'' game developed by Nintendo to feature Zelda as the player character. Zelda's weapon is the magical Tri Rod and she uses her power of Wisdom to duplicate objects and enemies, called echoes, to fight alongside her.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McWhertor |first=Michael |date=2024-06-18 |title=New Legend of Zelda game finally makes Zelda the playable hero of Hyrule |url=https://www.polygon.com/24180883/legend-of-zelda-echoes-wisdom-nintendo-switch-release-date |access-date=2024-06-18 |website=Polygon |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-06-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240625000857/https://www.polygon.com/24180883/legend-of-zelda-echoes-wisdom-nintendo-switch-release-date |url-status=live }}</ref> Aided by a fairy named Tri, she can explore Hyrule, recover Link's weapons, and transform into a spectre of Link, which allows her to briefly engage in active combat.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Stone |first=Sam |date=2024-10-01 |title=How Echoes of Wisdom Changes the Classic Zelda Formula |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/zelda-echoes-of-wisdom-thinking-gamers-zelda/ |access-date=2024-12-21 |website=Den of Geek |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-12-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241225100530/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/zelda-echoes-of-wisdom-thinking-gamers-zelda/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Spin-off games===
Zelda appears in three [[CD-i games based on The Legend of Zelda series|CD-i games based on ''The Legend of Zelda'' series]], which were developed out of an agreement between [[Philips]] and Nintendo to use ''Zelda'' characters on Philips's [[CD-i]] format. In ''[[Link: The Faces of Evil]]'' (1993), she is kidnapped by Ganon and has to be rescued by Link.<ref>{{Cite web|date=28 August 2010|title=IGN Presents the History of Zelda|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2010/08/27/ign-presents-the-history-of-zelda|access-date=17 November 2021|website=[[IGN]]|archive-date=24 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140224173937/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/08/27/ign-presents-the-history-of-zelda?page=3|url-status=live}}</ref> In ''[[Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon]]'' (1993) and ''[[Zelda's Adventure]]'' (1994), Princess Zelda is the protagonist and must save Link.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-09-26 |title=Zelda: The Wand Of Gamelon: The Kotaku Review |url=https://kotaku.com/zelda-the-wand-of-gamelon-the-kotaku-review-1818811388 |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=Kotaku |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231211164505/https://kotaku.com/zelda-the-wand-of-gamelon-the-kotaku-review-1818811388 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Alexander |first=Cristina |date=2023-05-01 |title=Zelda's Infamous CDi Game Turned Into Much Better-Looking Game Boy Game |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/zeldas-infamous-cdi-game-turned-into-much-better-looking-game-boy-game |access-date=2024-01-07 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=2023-08-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803214833/https://www.ign.com/articles/zeldas-infamous-cdi-game-turned-into-much-better-looking-game-boy-game |url-status=live }}</ref> ''Zelda: The Wand of Gamelon'' is noteworthy as the first time that Zelda appeared as a playable character.<ref>{{Cite web|title=First Legend of Zelda videogame to make Princess Zelda a playable character|url=https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/515526-first-legend-of-zelda-videogame-to-make-princess-zelda-a-playable-character|access-date=2021-10-28|website=Guinness World Records|date=10 October 1993|language=en-gb|archive-date=2021-10-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028221348/https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/515526-first-legend-of-zelda-videogame-to-make-princess-zelda-a-playable-character|url-status=live}}</ref> Having been developed with little input from Nintendo, the games have been criticised for their poor story, gameplay and animation and are not recognised by Nintendo as canon.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2021-02-02|title=The Legend of Zelda 35th anniversary retrospective: A windy adventure|url=https://www.imore.com/legend-of-zelda-35th-anniversary-retrospective|access-date=2021-10-28|website=iMore|archive-date=2021-10-28|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211028214741/https://www.imore.com/legend-of-zelda-35th-anniversary-retrospective|url-status=live}}</ref>

Zelda is a playable character in ''[[Hyrule Warriors]]'' (2014) and, according to the game's producer Yosuke Hayashi, was designed to be a stronger character with the feeling of a ruler.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Pitcher |first=Jenna |date=2014-06-25 |title=Watch Princess Zelda kick some serious ass in this Hyrule Warriors trailer |url=https://www.polygon.com/2014/6/25/5841020/hyrule-warriors-princess-zelda-kicks-butt-trailer |access-date=2023-11-19 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-11-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119141423/https://www.polygon.com/2014/6/25/5841020/hyrule-warriors-princess-zelda-kicks-butt-trailer |url-status=live }}</ref> Her weapons include a [[rapier]], baton and also the Dominion Rod, which was made available as downloadable content. Sheik is also a playable character and wields daggers and a harp.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |last=Greenbaum |first=Aaron |date=2023-05-08 |title=The Strange History of Legend of Zelda Games That Let You Play as Zelda |url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/every-legend-of-zelda-game-play-as-zelda/ |access-date=2023-11-19 |website=[[Den of Geek]] |language=en-US |archive-date=2024-01-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119094701/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/every-legend-of-zelda-game-play-as-zelda/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In addition to her ''Hyrule Warriors'' incarnation, Tetra and Toon Zelda (her incarnation from ''Spirit Tracks'') appear in ''Hyrule Warriors Legends''<ref>{{cite web|last1=Hussain|first1=Tamoor|date=June 10, 2015|title=Hyrule Warriors Announced for 3DS With New Characters|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/hyrule-warriors-announced-for-3ds-with-new-charact/1100-6427968/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150613002339/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/hyrule-warriors-announced-for-3ds-with-new-charact/1100-6427968/|archive-date=June 13, 2015|access-date=June 13, 2015|website=[[GameSpot]]|publisher=[[CBS Interactive]]}}</ref> and were added to ''Hyrule Warriors'' as downloadable content.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-09-02 |title=Hyrule Warriors Footage Shows Toon Zelda's Moves, Plus The Sand Rod In Action |url=https://www.siliconera.com/hyrule-warriors-footage-shows-toon-zeldas-moves-plus-sand-rod-action/ |access-date=2023-11-19 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-11-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119181306/https://www.siliconera.com/hyrule-warriors-footage-shows-toon-zeldas-moves-plus-sand-rod-action/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-01-22 |title=Hyrule Warriors Footage Features Tetra And The King of Hyrule Wii U Gameplay |url=https://www.siliconera.com/hyrule-warriors-footage-features-tetra-king-hyrule-wii-u-gameplay/ |access-date=2023-11-19 |website=Siliconera |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-11-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231119183752/https://www.siliconera.com/hyrule-warriors-footage-features-tetra-king-hyrule-wii-u-gameplay/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

In the [[rhythm game]] ''[[Cadence of Hyrule]]'', which was released in 2019 for the [[Nintendo Switch]], players can choose to play through the game as either Link or Zelda. The game is a crossover between ''[[Crypt of the NecroDancer]]'' and ''The Legend of Zelda'' series. Zelda has a magical shield to protect her and can use Link's weapons, such as the hookshot and boomerang.<ref name=":10" />

A spiritual successor to ''Hyrule Warriors,'' ''[[Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity]]'', was released in 2020 and designed as a prequel to ''Breath of the Wild.'' Princess Zelda is one of several characters from ''Breath of the Wild'' that appears as a playable character and fights using the Sheikah Slate and a bow.<ref name=":11" />

===Other game series===
Zelda was introduced in the ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'' series as a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' and has appeared in every subsequent game. In ''Melee'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'', Zelda possesses the ability to transform into Sheik. In ''[[Super Smash Bros. for 3DS and Wii U]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', they are separate characters.<ref name=":8" /> In ''Melee'' her design was based on her ''Ocarina of Time'' incarnation, while in ''Brawl'' it was based on her appearance in ''Twilight Princess''. The ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation of Zelda returned in ''Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS'' and ''Wii U''.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2013-12-26 |title=Nintendo calls Princess Zelda back to fight in the next Super Smash Bros. |url=https://venturebeat.com/games/nintendo-calls-princess-zelda-back-to-fight-in-the-next-super-smash-bros/ |access-date=2023-11-11 |website=VentureBeat |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231111233529/https://venturebeat.com/games/nintendo-calls-princess-zelda-back-to-fight-in-the-next-super-smash-bros/ |url-status=live }}</ref> In ''Ultimate'', Sheik's design took inspiration from the Sheikah Set in ''Breath of the Wild'' and her final smash is the Sheikah Dance.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Green|first=Jake|date=2020-01-17|title=Super Smash Bros Ultimate Character - Every Fighter in Smash Bros Ultimate|url=https://www.usgamer.net/articles/10-12-2018-super-smash-bros-ultimate-characters-moves-type-every-character-on-the-super-smash-bros-ultimate-roster/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sheik|access-date=2021-11-16|website=USgamer|language=en|archive-date=2021-11-16|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116204213/https://www.usgamer.net/articles/10-12-2018-super-smash-bros-ultimate-characters-moves-type-every-character-on-the-super-smash-bros-ultimate-roster/super-smash-bros-ultimate-sheik|url-status=dead}}</ref> Zelda's design is based on her appearance in ''A Link Between Worlds'' and her final smash is the Triforce of Wisdom.<ref name="SmashUltimateZelda">{{cite web|date=2018-06-13|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/e3-2018-all-super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-ch/1100-6459713/|title=E3 2018: All Super Smash Bros. Ultimate Character Changes That We Know Of (So Far)|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|access-date=2018-06-13|archive-date=2018-06-13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613060918/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/e3-2018-all-super-smash-bros-ultimate-character-ch/1100-6459713/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Television series ===
[[File:Princess_Zelda_(The_Legend_of_Zelda_Cartoon).jpg|thumb|upright|right|Zelda as seen in ''The Legend of Zelda'' animated series]]
A set of ''[[The Legend of Zelda (TV series)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' cartoons aired from 1989 to 1990 as a part of [[DiC]]'s [[Super Mario Bros. television series|''The Super Mario Bros. Super Show'']]. It was loosely based on the original game and centres on Link, Zelda, Ganon and a fairy named Spryte, and also features Zelda's father, King Harkinian. Thirteen episodes were produced before the cancellation of ''The Super Mario Bros. Super Show''. Although Zelda is sometimes captured by Ganon, she is depicted as a smart, resourceful character. The series also emphasises a romantic relationship between Link and Zelda, in which Link is always begging Zelda for a kiss.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-04-06|title=The Legend of Zelda Animated Series: A Very Strange History|url=https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-animated-series-a-very-strange-history/|access-date=2021-10-27|website=[[Den of Geek]]|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-10-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027081457/https://www.denofgeek.com/games/the-legend-of-zelda-animated-series-a-very-strange-history/|url-status=live}}</ref> Zelda was voiced by [[Cyndy Preston]] in the TV series.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Cynthia Preston (visual voices guide)|url=https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cynthia-Preston/|access-date=2021-10-27|website=Behind The Voice Actors|language=en-US|archive-date=2021-10-27|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027082243/https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/Cynthia-Preston/|url-status=live}}</ref> Writer Phil Harnage thought that Zelda's characterisation was ahead of its time and a role model for girls. He said that rather than being a [[Disney Princess]], Zelda was an "action hero in her own right". Preston said that she portrayed Zelda as an independent woman: "She didn't need a hero to save her, and that was so cool".<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-01-11 |title='Excuuuuse me, Princess!': An oral history of The Legend of Zelda cartoon |url=https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23540526/legend-of-zelda-cartoon-oral-history-zeldathon |access-date=2023-04-19 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-09-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230919234530/https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23540526/legend-of-zelda-cartoon-oral-history-zeldathon |url-status=live }}</ref> Zelda and Link also appear in season 2 of ''[[Captain N: The Game Master]].''<ref>{{Cite web |date=2017-07-15 |title=The Adaptation: The disasterpiece that was Captain N |url=https://www.destructoid.com/the-adaptation-the-disasterpiece-that-was-captain-n/ |access-date=2024-01-06 |website=Destructoid |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-04-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404114937/https://www.destructoid.com/the-adaptation-the-disasterpiece-that-was-captain-n/ |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Comics and manga ===
{{main|The Legend of Zelda (manga)}}
Shortly after the release of the first game, a companion [[manga]] book was published by Wanpaku Comics in September 1986. "The Hyrule Fantasy" manga was released in Japan and follows the same plot as the game with an expanded role for Zelda.<ref>{{Cite web |last=McClain |first=K.J. |date=2017-08-21 |title=Video: Take a Detailed Look at the Original "Legend of Zelda" Manga |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/video_take_a_detailed_look_at_the_original_legend_of_zelda_manga |access-date=2023-11-12 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-10-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231003210321/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2017/08/video_take_a_detailed_look_at_the_original_legend_of_zelda_manga |url-status=live }}</ref> In 1986, a ''[[Choose Your Own Adventure]]'' style of manga was published, ''The Legend of Zelda: The Mirage Castle''. Published entirely in Japanese, the manga features playing as Zelda and some scrapped concepts, including Zelda's father named King Graham II.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Gray |first=Kate |date=2022-01-28 |title=Random: Check Out This 1986 Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Book Where You Play As Zelda |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/01/random-check-out-this-1986-choose-your-own-adventure-book-where-you-play-as-zelda |access-date=2023-11-12 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-04-04 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404074632/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/01/random-check-out-this-1986-choose-your-own-adventure-book-where-you-play-as-zelda |url-status=live }}</ref> Zelda also appears in a similar manga book published in 1992, ''The Legend of Zelda: The Triforce of the Gods'', which is based on ''A Link to the Past''.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Hagues |first=Alana |date=2022-05-23 |title=Random: The Final Zelda Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Book Has Been Uncovered |url=https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/05/random-the-final-zelda-choose-your-own-adventure-book-has-been-uncovered |access-date=2023-11-12 |website=Nintendo Life |language=en-GB |archive-date=2023-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230528135813/https://www.nintendolife.com/news/2022/05/random-the-final-zelda-choose-your-own-adventure-book-has-been-uncovered |url-status=live }}</ref> A comic series published in the early 1990s by [[Valiant Comics]] was based on the adventures of Zelda and Link. Like ''The Legend of Zelda'' animated television series, which was being aired around the same time, it involves Link attempting to get a kiss from Zelda.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Carpenter |first=Nicole |date=2023-03-28 |title=Remember the time when Link turned into Ganon in The Legend of Zelda? |url=https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23645381/legend-of-zelda-comic-book-valiant-ridiculous-moments |access-date=2023-03-31 |website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]] |language=en-US |archive-date=2023-06-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230603020639/https://www.polygon.com/zelda/23645381/legend-of-zelda-comic-book-valiant-ridiculous-moments |url-status=live }}</ref> A serial comic by manga author [[Shotaro Ishinomori]] was originally published in 1992 in ''[[Nintendo Power]]'' magazine and later collected in graphic novel form. It was based on ''The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past'' and tells an alternate version of the events. It was reprinted as a single volume in 2015 by [[Viz Media]]. Other manga adaptations of ''The Legend of Zelda'' games have also been published, including ''Majora's Mask'', ''Ocarina of Time'', ''The Minish Cap'' and ''Phantom Hourglass'', which are illustrated by [[Akira Himekawa]].<ref>{{Cite web|last=McWhertor|first=Michael|date=2015-01-26|title=The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past comic returns to print after more than 20 years|url=https://www.polygon.com/2015/1/26/7918091/legend-of-zelda-link-to-the-past-shotaro-ishinomori-manga|access-date=2021-11-12|website=[[Polygon (website)|Polygon]]|language=en-US|archive-date=2023-10-12|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231012053959/https://www.polygon.com/2015/1/26/7918091/legend-of-zelda-link-to-the-past-shotaro-ishinomori-manga|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Gamebooks ===
Alongside Link, Zelda appears in several [[Nintendo gamebooks]]. ''The Crystal Trap'' and ''The Shadow Prince'' were published in 1992, which were written in the style of ''Choose Your Own Adventure'' books. ''The Crystal Trap'' focuses on Zelda freeing Link from the trap, while ''The Shadow Prince'' involves Link saving Zelda.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Hilliard |first=Kyle |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=pkN4DgAAQBAJ&dq=the+crystal+trap+nintendo+book&pg=PT124 |title=Legendary World of Zelda |date=2017-05-01 |publisher=Triumph Books |isbn=978-1-63319-818-0 |language=en}}</ref>