Why Link Will Always Be My Favorite Video Game Character

There many reasons why I could say Link from the Legend of Zelda is my favorite video game character. In the series’ 25 year history, he has played many roles from train conductor to hero. He’s even transformed into everything from a wolf to a pink bunny. Most importantly, I pick Link because he made me a lifelong gamer.

Link’s debut

In the 8-bit world, Link and Hyrule weren’t much to look at by today’s standards. The original Legend of Zelda seems simplistic now. To me, none of that matters. The first game is still regarded by many fans as the best ever made. Besides all the improvement and innovations the Legend of Zelda introduced, players got to know Link. There wasn’t much in-game story, but there was something magical and personal about controlling this little green clad person. As you bombed the rocks, burned the bushes, and explored the land, Link became more that just an avatar. he became a companion and friend.

There’s more then one?

As Zelda games were released, Link’s story has evolved and grown. In fact, there are several different Links featured in the series. The games themselves weren’t released in the correct Zelda universe timeline, either. It is intriguing to try and piece together a history of the character and his universe. While there are numerous Links, each embodies the spirit of a kind, loyal, and brave hero. This feeling of familiarity mixes well with the different ways he is presented through the games.

Silent Link

Back in the early days, gaming characters didn’t speak. Now, it seems some of them never shut up. Link has remained silent through all of his adventures, and I couldn’t image him any other way. Since I grew-up with him, I feel like I already know what he would say. Besides with the newer games, Link’s facial expressions convey the prefect reactions. In Skyward Sword, the emotions that come through when Zelda tells him she must go into a deep sleep are heart-wrenching. Link’s silence has helped me become him and empathize with him in the games more then any dialogue ever could.

Link is a truly fascinating character that has held my attention for a quarter of a century. Whether he’s a kid or adult, in Hyrule or Termina, taking to the skies or sailing a ship, I know I will have a great adventure with him. It’s a bond I share with him that I truly grateful for. Link opened up more then his world to me, he introduced me to my lifelong passion for gaming.


People also view

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *