The Legend of Zelda (universe): Difference between revisions

{{Title|''The Legend of Zelda'' (universe)}}

|caption          = [[File:ZeldaSymbol.svg|50px|class=invert-dark]]

|latestinstallment = ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom}}'' (2024)

'''''The Legend of Zelda'' universe''' ({{ja|ゼルダの伝説|Zeruda no Densetsu}}, ''The Legend of Zelda'') refers to the ''{{b|Super Smash Bros.|series}}'' series' collection of characters, stages, and properties that hail from [[Nintendo]]'s long-running and famous ''The Legend of Zelda'' game series. It is a series of fantasy action-adventure titles produced by Nintendo throughout the company's history. It is widely considered one of the most influential video game franchises ever created, and has earned a spot as one of the company's flagship franchises alongside such notable series as {{uv|Mario}} and {{uv|Pokémon}}, with ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time}}'' being the best-reviewed game of all time by certain sources. The series has sold over 100 million units, making it the one of the best-selling video game franchises of all-time. As a result, it is heavily featured in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, with five separate characters playable in  ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. 4]]'', and 6 separate characters in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'': The main hero [[Link]], his younger counterpart [[Young Link]] (''Melee'' & ''Ultimate'') and [[Toon Link]] (''Brawl'' onward) incarnations, the titular [[Princess Zelda]], her alternate ninja-like guise [[Sheik]], and series villain [[Ganondorf]].

At least three other releases in the main series were arguably revolutionary in their own right. The third game, ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past}}'' for Super Nintendo in early April 1992, advanced many of the conventions introduced by the original game's formula to resemble what a modern-day top-down ''Zelda''-style game traditionally features, with refined combat, item-usage, puzzle-filled dungeon aspects, and more detail to the archetypal story. It is widely considered today to be one of the greatest video games ever released, and the many ''Zelda'' games that make use of this top-down style are typically relegated to Nintendo handhelds. However, even more momentous was the late-1998 release of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time]]'' for the Nintendo 64, which seamlessly converted the ''Zelda'' formula into a fully realized and detailed three-dimensional world presented in the third person, and introduced what has since become common elements in 3D action-adventure games: a target-lock system to orient the player-character towards specific enemies and circle strafe around them in combat situations in areas with a freely rotatable camera, and context-sensitive buttons. On its initial release, it received perfect review scores from the majority of video game publications that reviewed it, and it sold over seven million copies worldwide. Like ''A Link to the Past'' for the top-down 2D perspective, ''Ocarina of Time'' introduced to the series the 3D-style of gameplay regularly used by console-based ''Zelda'' releases, which typically are the "biggest" releases in the series. Finally, after years of elaborating on the formulas set by ''A Link to the Past'' and ''Ocarina'', ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}'' was released in 2017 for the Wii U and Nintendo Switch. ''Breath of the Wild'' expanded ''Zelda'' to a highly engrossing open-world style, giving the player freedom to explore the game's world at their own leisure and adding a high degree of realism to the gameplay mechanics, and received near-unanimous praise as one of the series' best entries and the first truly revolutionary ''Zelda'' game since ''Ocarina of Time''.

Besides instances where some games are direct sequels and continuations to each other, there is usually no relevance in continuity between any of the seemingly independent portrayals of Hyrule. This, however, did not stop fans from speculating wildly on how all of the titles could be ordered in a chronological timeline that assumes Hyrule in all of these games is, in fact, the same world in different stages of its history, and that the reappearances of Link and related characters represent different individuals that are unwitting reincarnations of eras and Links from the past—due to contradictions between games that arise when trying to place them all in a linear timeline, estimates were made that the Zelda chronology branched off into separate directions. In 2011, during the 25th anniversary of the franchise, Nintendo posted an official timeline for the series that affirmed that there were, in fact, three separate branches with their own corresponding games. The current official ordering of ''The Legend of Zelda'' series is explained below:

In ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}'' released in March 2017, Link awakens after a 100-year slumber and is tasked with exploring and saving Hyrule from the return of Ganon, now an amorphous abomination known as Calamity Ganon. Link is able to gather materials, conquer Shrines (serving as small-scale dungeons), and explore the vast open world of Hyrule with virtually no limits. This is primarily facilitated by Link’s ability to climb virtually any surface and paraglide through the skies. The game and its primary goals were originally announced in early 2013, with brief gameplay sequences shown periodically through its development cycle before being officially rerevealed at E3 2016. These primary goals of this installment, according to Eiji Aonuma, were to break from the conventions that the series had held onto since ''Ocarina of Time'' and provide a ''Zelda'' experience unlike any game in the series before. Serving as the swan song for the Wii U as well as a launch title for the Nintendo Switch, the game has been universally lauded for returning to the open-ended, non-linear structure of the original ''The Legend of Zelda'', leaving gameplay aspects up to the player's sense of curiosity, discovery, and experimentation, and introducing elements of realism and interaction with the environment. ''Breath of the Wild's'' timeline placement is currently unknown, but has been officially stated to take place sometime after ''Ocarina of Time''. The game went on to become the single best selling entry in the entire franchise, and one of the top ten best selling games on the Nintendo Switch. An Expansion Pass was released throughout 2017 in two DLC packs: ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Master Trials}}'' in June and ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Champions' Ballad}}'' in December. A direct sequel, ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom}}'', released for the Nintendo Switch on May 12, 2023. Between the two games, a ''[[zeldawiki:Hyrule Warriors|Warriors]]''-style prequel detailing the events of the Great Calamity 100 years prior, ''{{s|zeldawiki|Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity}}'', was released for the Nintendo Switch on November 20th, 2020.

*[[File:LinkIcon(SSB).png|50px|right|link=Link (SSB)]]'''{{SSB|Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): A teenage sword-and-shield fighter with elven ears, a green tunic, and a long floppy green cap. The Link from ''Ocarina of Time'' was formerly a young boy from a forest but was divinely chosen to oppress the future rule of Ganondorf by being transported seven years into the future, where he became a brave, capable warrior in his older form and wielded the Master Sword along with the Triforce Piece of Courage. Link is never heard speaking throughout the games; he is only heard grunting and yelling in his many battles. He fights in ''Smash 64'' with his various tools from ''Ocarina of Time''. His [[neutral special]], the [[Boomerang]], is a good projectile that comes back to Link after it is thrown. His [[up special]] is the [[Spin Attack]] from ''A Link to the Past'', a slow but powerful spinning maneuver. His [[down special]] is him spawning a {{b|Bomb|Link}} from the Zelda series, which he can throw like an item. It explodes on contact with an opponent or after several seconds.{{clr}}

*'''[[Heart Container]]''': In the original ''The Legend of Zelda'' and any other ''Zelda'' game, when Link defeats a boss, he wins a Heart Container, which increases his total life meter by one heart. In ''Smash 64'', the Heart Container will always spawn in the air, and slowly float to the ground. Any character who picks it up will have their percentage reduced all the way to 0%, making this a powerful item.

*[[File:LinkIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Link (SSBM)]]'''{{SSBM|Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Link returns as a starter character, once again being based on his ''Ocarina of Time'' incarnation. While his moveset stays relatively the same, his grab, the [[Hookshot]], can now grab onto ledges to help his previously poor recovery. He also gained a new forward smash and dash attack, and his previous neutral special, the Boomerang, is now his [[side special]]. His new neutral special is the [[Hero's Bow]], where Link takes out his bow and shoots an arrow in front of him. With a better recovery, Link was slightly buffed from ''Smash 64''.{{clr}}

*[[File:ZeldaSheikIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Zelda/Sheik]]'''[[Zelda/Sheik]]''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Zelda/Sheik refers to both Zelda and Sheik as one character slot, and it also refers to players who alternate between the two characters. Zelda is unique in that she is the only character in ''Melee'' who can transform into another character in the midst of battle, the nimble Sheik. This is done via the down special [[Transform]], which is shared between Zelda and Sheik. They can both transform into one another at any point in the match. While they are technically the same person, they both have completely unique movesets.{{clr}}

:*[[File:SheikIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Sheik (SSBM)]]'''{{SSBM|Sheik}}''': Sheik is the alter-ego of Zelda in ''Ocarina of Time''. In ''Melee'', Sheik is a new starter character, whose appearance is based on her look from ''Ocarina of Time''. Her neutral special [[Needle Storm]] causes Sheik to store up a bunch of needles. When pressing the B button again, she releases all her needles in front of her. Her side special is [[Chain]], where Sheik pulls out a long metal chain and whips it around. Her up special is [[Vanish]], where Sheik vanishes into the air, then reappears further in one direction, which can be controlled with the control stick. While not appearing in the character select screen, she can be accessed by holding the A button at the beginning of a match when playing as Zelda.{{clr}}

:*[[File:ZeldaIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Zelda (SSBM)]]'''{{SSBM|Zelda}}''': Zelda is the princess of Hyrule, and the bearer of the Triforce of Wisdom who first appeared in the first ''Legend of Zelda''. In ''Melee'', Zelda is a new starter character, whose appearance is based on her look from ''Ocarina of Time''. She mainly uses magic and fire attacks. Zelda's neutral special is [[Nayru's Love]], a move where Zelda encloses herself into a blue crystal that reflects projectiles. Her side special is [[Din's Fire]], where Zelda launches a controllable fireball that charges as it travels until it explodes. Her up special is [[Farore's Wind]], where a yellow ribbon of magic spins around Zelda, causing her to disappear. After that, she will reappear in any direction held on the control stick. These specials are all magic attacks that Link could learn from the Great Fairies in ''Ocarina of Time''.{{clr}}

*[[File:YoungLinkIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Young Link (SSBM)]]'''{{SSBM|Young Link}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): Young Link is simply Link as a child. While the Link in the first ''Legend of Zelda'' was a child, the first clear appearance of a prepubescent Link was in the beginning portion of ''Ocarina of Time'' in which the "Hero of Time" begins his quest as a young boy. The same young Link would star in the game ''Majora's Mask''. In ''Melee'', Young Link appears as a new unlockable character. Young Link is a slightly weaker and faster [[clone]] of Link, sharing the same base moveset. His neutral special is the [[Fire Bow]], which is like Link's Bow, except it is faster, has shorter range, and has the fire property. His side special is also the [[Boomerang]], but with a shorter range, and higher damage output. His up special is the [[Spin Attack]], which attacks multiple times on the ground. His down special is also a [[Bomb]], but it deals multiple hits upon exploding. Unlike Link, Young Link also has the ability to wall jump.{{clr}}

*[[File:GanondorfIcon(SSBM).png|50px|right|link=Ganondorf (SSBM)]]'''{{SSBM|Ganondorf}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): Ganondorf is the main antagonist of the ''Legend of Zelda'' franchise. First appearing in the original ''Legend of Zelda'' in his pig form, Ganondorf would make his debut in his human incarnation in ''Ocarina of Time''. In ''Melee'', Ganondorf is a new unlockable character. He is a clone of {{SSBM|Captain Falcon}}, sharing many animations and all special attacks, but Ganondorf has a significantly heavier, slower, and stronger nature. His neutral special is the [[Warlock Punch]], a much slower and stronger version of the [[Falcon Punch]]. His side special is the [[Gerudo Dragon]], a move like the [[Raptor Boost]], except it does not meteor smash in the air. His down special is the [[Wizard's Foot]], a clone move of the [[Falcon Kick]]. All three of these moves use "dark" effects instead of fire effects. His up special is the [[Dark Dive]]. The move itself is essentially a clone move of Falcon Dive, except that there are electric effects.{{clr}}

*[[File:LinkIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Link (SSBB)]]'''{{SSBB|Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Link returns in ''Brawl'', but is depicted here as his ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation rather than his adult ''Ocarina of Time'' incarnation. Some of his moves have also been slightly modified to reflect the ''Twilight Princess'' versions of his items. Link now has the [[Gale Boomerang]] as his [[side special]], which will slightly drag the opponent towards Link upon its return. Link's Bow is now the [[Hero's Bow]], though it is identical in function, and Link can now charge his [[Spin Attack]], but only while grounded. Link's extended grab has also been changed to the [[Clawshot]], which not only appears to be longer than the Hookshot, but also automatically aims towards the nearest ledge when Link is recovering. His Final Smash is the [[Triforce Slash]], which does heavy, prolonged, and concentrated damage towards one opponent.{{clr}}

*[[File:ZeldaSheikIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Zelda/Sheik]]'''[[Zelda/Sheik]]''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Zelda and Sheik return as a character slot in ''Brawl'', mostly unchanged from ''Melee''. Even though Sheik and Zelda are rated lower in the tier list and they are used less often, some [[smasher]]s use Zelda and Sheik together. Also, they have their own character slot in the [[tier list]] and they are one spot above ''Sheik''. ''Zelda'' has to be used approximately as much as ''Sheik'' for it to be referred as ''Zelda/Sheik'' and simply using ''Zelda'' for her [[recovery]] does not count.{{clr}}

:*[[File:SheikIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Sheik (SSBB)]]'''{{SSBB|Sheik}}''': Sheik returns as a playable character once again, and retains her ability to transform into Zelda during battle and can be selected between the two on the character select screen. She did not appear in ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'', but her appearance has been based on a "beta Sheik" that was meant to appear in ''Twilight Princess'', but whose design was never seen by anyone but Eiji Aonuma and his development team. She still has her own moveset, but shares her [[Final Smash]] with Zelda.{{clr}}

:*[[File:ZeldaIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Zelda (SSBB)]]'''{{SSBB|Zelda}}''': Zelda also returns from the last game, now based on her ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation, with Sakurai claiming that she now has a "more subdued color scheme". She is a slow, yet light character, but when her attacks hit right, they can be powerful. She retains her ability to transform into Sheik during battle and can be selected between the two on the character select screen. Zelda's [[Final Smash]] is the heavenly [[Light Arrow]].{{clr}}

*[[File:GanondorfIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Ganondorf (SSBB)]]'''{{SSBB|Ganondorf}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): Ganondorf returns in ''Brawl'' as well in his ''Twilight Princess'' appearance. This time, Ganondorf is quite different from his ''Melee'' incarnation, having very different animations for his moves when compared to {{SSBB|Captain Falcon}}, who he was considered a clone of in ''Melee''. He is still one of the archetypal heavyweights in ''Brawl''. Ganondorf's [[Final Smash]] is the [[Beast Ganon]] transformation.{{clr}}

*[[File:ToonLinkIcon(SSBB).png|50px|right|link=Toon Link (SSBB)]]'''{{SSBB|Toon Link}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): Link's childlike incarnation as seen in ''The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker'' and other titles is introduced in ''Brawl'' as the spiritual successor to [[Young Link]]. While not a heavy clone of Link, Toon Link has the same basic special moves and Final Smash, but all with important visual and functional differences.{{clr}}

*[[File:LinkIcon(SSB4-U).png|50px|right|link=Link (SSB4)]]'''{{SSB4|Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Link makes an expected appearance in ''Super Smash Bros. 4'', and again as the ''Twilight Princess'' incarnation. He has received many notable buffs from ''Brawl'', now being virtually as viable as he was in ''Melee''. Some of his costume options include his tunic from ''The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword'' and his "Fierce Deity" design from ''Majora's Mask''.{{clr}}

*[[File:SheikIcon(SSB4-U).png|50px|right|link=Sheik (SSB4)]]'''{{SSB4|Sheik}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Sheik returns as a stand-alone character, separated from Zelda and sporting an updated visual design from ''Brawl''. Like Zelda, she has a new down special move to replace Transform; in her case, it is the [[Bouncing Fish]]. Sheik also sports a new side special in the form of the [[Burst Grenade]]. She has been notably buffed after her drastic nerf in ''Brawl'', now arguably as viable as she was in ''Melee''.{{clr}}

*[[File:ZeldaIcon(SSB4-U).png|50px|right|link=Zelda (SSB4)]]'''{{SSB4|Zelda}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Zelda returns in this installment as the ''Twilight Princess'' version. One big change is that she can no longer transform into Sheik but can instead [[Phantom Slash|summon a Phantom]] to aid her in battle.{{clr}}

*[[File:GanondorfIcon(SSB4-U).png|50px|right|link=Ganondorf (SSB4)]]'''{{SSB4|Ganondorf}}''' (3DS: [[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]; Wii U: [[Starter character|Starter]]): Ganondorf was unofficially revealed as a veteran fighter and, as in ''Brawl'', retains his ''Twilight Princess'' form. His moveset is largely the same as in ''Brawl''. However, he has been drastically buffed in terms of power and speed (and even further via patch updates) and has been given a variety of [[Customization|custom moves]] that vary drastically from Captain Falcon's, one of which allows him to attack with his sword for the first time in the series.{{clr}}

*[[File:ToonLinkIcon(SSB4-U).png|50px|right|link=Toon Link (SSB4)]]'''{{SSB4|Toon Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): Toon Link returns in ''Super Smash Bros. 4'' as well, continuing the dual representation of variations of Link that has been present in the series since ''Melee''. He was revealed on the official website in conjunction with the Japanese release of ''The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD'', and as such has many visual and animation upgrades that resemble that title.{{clr}}

*[[File:TempleIconSSB4-U.png|75px|right|link=Temple]]{{GameIcon|SSBM}}'''[[Temple]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): a massive arena staged on a floating [[zeldawiki:Dungeons in The Adventure of Link|palace]] from ''{{s|zeldawiki|Zelda II: The Adventure of Link}}''. Temple has received a significant graphical overhaul in its transition from ''Brawl'', and the positioning of its platforms have been adjusted to make the [[Temple#Fight Club|Fight Club]] area less narrow. This stage is large enough to accommodate [[8-Player Smash]] and was one of the first stages revealed to support it. Its [[Ω form]] is staged on a [[Final Destination]]-like platform, with the original main Temple platforms floating in the background.{{clr}}

*'''''[[Ghirahim]]''''': a major antagonist from ''{{s|zeldawiki|Skyward Sword}}''. He teleports towards opponents and attacks them with his sword and knives. He will respawn on the stage if he falls off. He does not attack the summoner.{{clr}}

*'''{{SSB4MusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Overworld Theme (The Legend of Zelda)}}''' ([[DLC]]): it plays on Hyrule Castle (64)^{(<span style="color:#004DFF">Wii U</span>)}.

*'''{{SSB4MusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Overworld Theme (A Link to the Past)}}''' ([[DLC]]): it plays on Hyrule Castle (64)^{(<span style="color:#004DFF">Wii U</span>)}.

*'''{{SSB4MusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Hyrule Field Theme (Original)|Hyrule Field Theme}}''' ([[DLC]]): "Hyrule Field Main Theme" from ''Ocarina of Time''. It plays on Hyrule Castle (64)^{(<span style="color:#004DFF">Wii U</span>)}.

*'''{{SSB4MusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Termina Field}}''' ([[DLC]]): from ''Majora's Mask''. It plays on Hyrule Castle (64)^{(<span style="color:#004DFF">Wii U</span>)} and Pirate Ship.

Additionally, all past stages have been curated and updated for ''Ultimate'', in addition to a new stage being added that is based on ''Breath of the Wild''. With these changes, the ''Zelda'' franchise is better referenced as a whole.  

*03. [[File:LinkIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Link (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Link}}''' ([[Starter character|Starter]]): The reincarnating bearer of the Triforce of Courage returns as a starting fighter, but this time with a significant design overhaul. Like his transition from ''Melee'' to ''Brawl'', his design, moveset, and voice clips have been updated to reflect his appearance in ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild}}''. Some key changes include a lack of a Hookshot or Clawshot, arrows becoming equippable items and being able to fire two at once, launching sword beams with his forward smash if no damage has been taken, access to the [[Remote Bomb]] rune (replacing his timed bombs from past appearances), and a new Final Smash involving the [[Ancient Bow and Arrow]]s. His green Tunic of the Wild armor set can be selected as an alternate costume. He was suggested to appear during ''Ultimate''{{'}}s then unnamed [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3Gt42kVgCw teaser trailer] at the end of the March 8th, 2018 [[Nintendo Direct]], and was later formally announced along with all other [[veteran]]s during [[E3 2018]].{{clr}}

*16. [[File:SheikIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Sheik (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Sheik}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): The ninja-like alter-ego returns as an unlockable fighter after being a starter in ''Melee'', ''Brawl'', and ''Smash 4'', with a new design based on the Stealth Armor Set from ''Breath of the Wild''. Her moveset otherwise remains largely unchanged from ''SSB4''. Two key changes are that she has received new voice clips for the first time since ''Brawl'' and she has a new Final Smash, [[Sheikah Dance]], which is a rushing flurry of knife attacks.{{clr}}

*17. [[File:ZeldaIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Zelda (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Zelda}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): The bearer of the Triforce of Wisdom returns as an unlockable fighter after being a starter in ''Melee'', ''Brawl'', and ''Smash 4'', this time with her design overhauled to combine her appearances from ''{{s|zeldawiki|A Link to the Past}}'' and ''{{s|zeldawiki|A Link Between Worlds}}''. Some notable changes include new voice clips for the first time since ''Brawl'', a new rapid jab, reworks to her [[Phantom Slash]], and a new Final Smash utilizing the [[Triforce of Wisdom]].{{clr}}

*22. [[File:YoungLinkIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Young Link (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Young Link}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): After a two installment absence, the child incarnation of the Hero of Time returns from ''Melee'' as an unlockable fighter, retaining his design from ''Ocarina of Time'' and ''Majora’s Mask''. Despite keeping his status as a full clone, Young Link is not labeled as an [[Echo Fighter]], possibly due to retaining the moveset of the more traditional adult Link from ''Melee'' rather than the current one. Some notable changes include being able to charge his [[Spin Attack]] on the ground like the other Links, having two more taunts, new alternate costumes, and a Final Smash, that being Triforce Slash.{{clr}}

*23. [[File:GanondorfIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Ganondorf (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Ganondorf}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): The bearer of the Triforce of Power returns as an unlockable fighter after being a starter in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U'', with his design having been reverted to his Gerudo appearance in ''Ocarina of Time'', last seen in ''Melee''. One notable change is that he now uses the sword from the SpaceWorld 2000 Tech Demo (also seen in ''Melee'' in one of his victory screens) for his smash attacks. Otherwise, he has gained many notable mobility buffs across the board. He has received new voice clips to match his past incarnation as well.{{clr}}

*43. [[File:ToonLinkIcon(SSBU).png|50px|right|link=Toon Link (SSBU)]]'''{{SSBU|Toon Link}}''' ([[Unlockable character|Unlockable]]): The Hero of Winds returns as an unlockable fighter after being a starter in ''Smash 4'', retaining his design from ''The Wind Waker''. Some notable changes include new sword sound effects that are exclusive to him and only performing one upwards swipe from his forward smash. Otherwise, he remains largely unchanged from his previous appearance.{{clr}}

*[[File:Ganon SSBU.png|right|120px|link=Ganon]]'''[[Ganon]]''': Ganon appears as a boss, using his Demon-King design from ''Ocarina of Time''. He is fought on a stage reminiscent of the ruins of Ganon's Castle, where the final battle of said game takes place. He wields two swords in battle and his primary weak point is his glowing tail.{{clr}}

All ''Zelda'' stages from previous ''Super Smash Bros.'' games return with one new stage as part of the base game.

*{{gameIcon|SSB}}[[File:HyruleCastleIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Hyrule Castle]]'''[[Hyrule Castle]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''Smash 64'', this stage maintains its retro aesthetics.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSBM}}[[File:GreatBayIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Great Bay]]'''[[Great Bay]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returns from ''Melee'' after a 17-year absence. The visuals have been improved to match its appearance in ''{{iw|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D}}''.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSBM}}[[File:TempleIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Temple]]'''[[Temple]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''Melee'', with a massive graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSBB}}[[File:BridgeofEldinIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Bridge of Eldin]]'''[[Bridge of Eldin]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''Brawl'', with a massive graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSBB}}[[File:PirateShipIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Pirate Ship]]'''[[Pirate Ship]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''Brawl'', with a minor graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSB4-3DS}}[[File:GerudoValleyIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Gerudo Valley]]'''[[Gerudo Valley]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''3DS'', with a massive graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSB4-3DS}}[[File:SpiritTrainIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Spirit Train]]'''[[Spirit Train]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''3DS'', with a massive graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSB4-WiiU}}[[File:SkyloftIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Skyloft]]'''[[Skyloft]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): Returning from ''Wii U'', with a minor graphical overhaul.{{clr}}

*[[File:GreatPlateauTowerIconSSBU.png|75px|right|link=Great Plateau Tower]]'''[[Great Plateau Tower]]''' ([[Starter stage|Starter]]): A brand new stage based off of the first Sheikah tower from ''Breath of the Wild''. The overhead structure can crumble and reform in a similar manner to [[Luigi's Mansion]].{{clr}}

 

*[[File:SacredLandCharacterLocations.jpg|100px|right|link=Sacred Land]]'''[[Sacred Land]]''': Based on various locations in Hyrule, the Sacred Land appears as a sub-world in [[The Dark Realm]]. The map is shaped like the Triforce, with the Triforce of Courage section based on the Lost Woods, the Triforce of Wisdom based section based on Kakariko Village, and the Triforce of Power secrion based on Gerudo Valley. Owl Statues are scattered throughout the land, giving hints to the player on how to solve certain puzzles. [[Ganon]] appears as the boss, appearing at Hyrule Castle. However, he will only appear once {{SSBU|Young Link}}, {{SSBU|Zelda}}, and {{SSBU|Ganondorf}} have been unlocked. In addition to these three, {{SSBU|Chrom}}, {{SSBU|Mii Brawler}}, {{SSBU|Sonic}}, {{SSBU|Cloud}}, and {{SSBU|Bowser Jr.}} can be unlocked here.{{clr}}  

*'''[[Heart Container]]''' (healing): A heart-shaped vessel from the original ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda|Legend of Zelda]]''. It is a returning item that heals 100% damage from the player. It is based on its appearance in ''{{s|zeldawiki|Skyward Sword}}''.

*'''[[Bunny Hood]]''' (status): Headgear with rabbit ears from ''{{s|zeldawiki|Majora's Mask}}''. It is a returning item that increases the wearer's agility. One of the settings in [[Special Smash]] equips every fighter with the Bunny Hood.

*'''[[Deku Nut]]''' (throwing): A unique nut from ''{{s|zeldawiki|Ocarina of Time}}'' that paralyzes opponents. It is a returning item that temporarily [[stun]]s stuck opponents on contact.

*'''[[Fairy Bottle]]''' (healing/throwing): A healing item from ''{{s|zeldawiki|A Link to the Past}}''. When used, it heals 100% of the user's damage. If the player is at ≤99% damage, the item can be picked up and thrown at opponents or teammates.

*'''[[Cucco]]''' (throwing): A throwing item from ''A Link to the Past''. When it makes contact with an opponent or is attacked, it will summon a huge flock to attack the offender. Unlike their [[Smash Run]] counterpart, these Cuccos are based on their appearance in ''Twilight Princess''.

*'''[[Bombchu]]''' (throwing): An item from ''Ocarina of Time''. It is a murine bomb that scurries around the stage after being tossed. It will crawl up walls, floors, and ceilings until it makes contact with an opponent and explodes.

*'''[[Beetle]]''' (throwing): An item from ''Skyward Sword''. It is a mechanical scarab that will grab onto opponents and lift them skyward, past the [[blast zone]] of the stage. If the player is at low damage and/or [[Button mashing|mashes]] enough buttons, they can break away from the Beetle.

*'''[[Gust Bellows]]''' (shooting): An item from ''Skyward Sword''. It is a bag of winds that blows [[Windbox|powerful gusts]] when fired. If discarded, the wind will be blown in all directions.

*'''[[Skull Kid]]''': Returns as an Assist Trophy; he causes one of three random status effects to occur on everyone: flipping the screen upside down, reversing controls, or turning everyone invisible.{{clr}}

*'''[[Midna]]''': Returns as an Assist Trophy; she uses the hand from her hair to grab and throw nearby opponents. Can be attacked and KO’d.{{clr}}

*'''[[Ghirahim]]''': Returns as an Assist Trophy; he warps around the stage attacking with swords and knives. Can be attacked and KO’d.{{clr}}

*'''''[[Moon]]''''': Appeared as it did in ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D|Majora's Mask 3D]]''. It collides into the stage from the background, damaging and launching all participants.{{clr}}

*{{gameIcon|SSB}}'''{{SSBUMusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Overworld Theme - The Legend of Zelda (64)}}''': A remix of "Overworld Theme" from ''The Legend of Zelda''. Returns from the original ''Super Smash Bros.'', renamed from '''Hyrule Castle Stage'''.

*{{gameIcon|SSBM}}'''{{SSBUMusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Overworld Theme - The Legend of Zelda (Melee)}}''': An arrangement of "Overworld Theme" from ''The Legend of Zelda''. Returns from ''Melee'', renamed from '''Great Bay'''.

*{{GameIcon|SSBB}}'''{{SSBUMusicLink|The Legend of Zelda|Dark World (Brawl)}}''': An arrangement of "Dark World" from ''{{iw|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past}}''. Returns from ''Brawl''.

==Media with elements appearing in the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series==

{{main|The Legend of Zelda (universe)/Elements appearing in the Super Smash Bros. series}}

The ''Legend of Zelda'' universe has media represented throughout the ''Super Smash Bros.'' series with a total of 28 games and media. The latest game represented in this universe is ''{{s|zeldawiki|The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom}}'', released on May 12, 2023.

*The designs choices for Link, Zelda, and Ganondorf in ''Ultimate'', combined with Sheik, Young Link, and Toon Link, appear to reference the timelines forming the ''Zelda'' franchise: Link references ''Breath of the Wild'', taking place long after any of the events in any timeline, Zelda references the "Downfall" timeline, Ganondorf references ''Ocarina of Time'', just right before the timeline splits; Young Link now references the "Child" timeline, and Toon Link references the "Adult" timeline. Only Sheik is the exception, as her design combines elements of all of the timelines except for the Adult timeline: she is introduced in ''Ocarina of Time'', her design is based on the Stealth Armor from ''Breath of the Wild'', has ''Twilight Princess''' braided ponytail, and shares her voice with ''A Link Between Worlds'' Zelda.