The Legend of Zelda series has seen a significant resurgence in popularity with its releases on the Nintendo Switch. From the groundbreaking Breath of the Wild to the expansive Tears of the Kingdom, the console has become a pivotal platform for the iconic franchise. This overview details every Zelda game released on the Switch, including mainline titles, spin-offs, and Hyrule Warriors entries, as well as upcoming releases and features for the next-generation Switch 2.
The Legend of Zelda on Nintendo Switch
Since its launch in 2017, the Nintendo Switch has hosted a total of five mainline Zelda games, three Hyrule Warriors titles, and one spin-off. All these games are compatible with the upcoming Switch 2.
The first Zelda title to arrive on the Switch was The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild in 2017. This launch title redefined the series with its expansive open-world design, allowing unprecedented freedom of exploration. The narrative follows Link awakening after a century to defeat Calamity Ganon and save Princess Zelda.
Following in 2018, Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition brought the action hack and slash title, originally from the Wii U, to the Switch. Developed by Omega Force, it features characters from across the Zelda universe and includes all content from the original release, plus Breath of the Wild-themed costumes.
2019 saw the release of two distinct Zelda experiences. Cadence of Hyrule, a collaboration with Brace Yourself Games, merged the roguelike rhythm gameplay of Crypt of the NecroDancer with the Zelda universe, offering a unique soundtrack and pixelated visuals. In the same year, The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, a charming remake of the 1993 Game Boy game developed by Grezzo, put players in the role of Link stranded on Koholint Island, tasked with uncovering its mysteries.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity arrived in 2020, serving as a prequel to Breath of the Wild set 100 years before its events. This entry allows players to experience the war against Calamity Ganon firsthand with a roster of playable characters from Breath of the Wild. It was later expanded with two waves of DLC.
In 2021, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD remastered the classic Wii game, offering a journey through the skies and the origins of the Master Sword. The HD version included both the original motion controls and a new button-only control scheme.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched in 2023, achieving massive sales success. Set after Breath of the Wild, the game expands the world to include Hyrule's sky islands and subterranean depths, offering hundreds of hours of gameplay. It is widely regarded as one of the series' finest entries.
More recently, The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom was released in the fall of 2024. This title shifts focus to Princess Zelda as the protagonist, featuring a 2D art style reminiscent of Link's Awakening. It presents a full-fledged Zelda adventure where players utilize new creative mechanics to save Hyrule and a captured Link.
Additionally, Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is slated for release in 2025. This entry is described as canon and delves into the Imprisoning War, serving as a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom. Princess Zelda will be a playable character, venturing into Hyrule's past to combat Ganondorf.
Classic Zelda Titles via Nintendo Switch Online
For fans looking to explore the series' roots, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack service provides access to a substantial library of classic Zelda games. This includes titles such as The Legend of Zelda, Zelda II: The Adventure of Link, The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, which is part of the GameCube library exclusive to the Switch 2.
What's Next for The Legend of Zelda
Looking ahead, a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is confirmed for the Switch 2, with a planned release in 2026. Nintendo has indicated that its ongoing strategy of releasing remakes is intended to pave the way for future developments in the franchise.
Beyond gaming, a live-action Legend of Zelda movie is in development, scheduled for theatrical release on March 26, 2027. Director Wes Ball aims for a grounded adaptation, with casting for Link and Zelda already confirmed.