10 Best Zelda Mini-Games Of All Time, Ranked

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A core aspect of any adventure is discovering the various mini-games scattered across the lands of Hyrule. Some offer up a simple sum of Rupees when completed, while others reward Link with vital tools and upgrades to aid him on his journey. In a series known for its puzzles and dungeons, it's easy to overlook how essential the mini-game offerings are. Not only can they often reap useful rewards, they sometimes introduce the most fascinating side-characters of the franchise. More than just a means of gaining extra loot,these games help to expand the lore of Hyrule.

Among the many dozens of titles in the franchise, the variety of mini-games ranges from simple and charming to bizarre and otherworldly. Whether plumbing the depths of Zora's Domain in or cutting a rug in the Goron Dance Hall in, mini-games are as varied as the core games themselves. With well over 20 entries in the mainline series, compiling a list of the best mini-games is no small task (and one that is certainly subjective). Nevertheless, here is a list of 10 mini-games that are arguably the best in the series.

While the one that started it all is certainly a humble offering compared to those that would follow, the Money Making Games in the original solidifies the franchise's use of mini-games. For many, it was the hidden location just one screen left of the game's initial starting location where Link first encountered the Old Man. With three Rupees placed before him, the mysterious figure offers Link the choice of one for the price of 10 of his own.

Make the wrong choice, and the Link is out 10 Rupees or more. Choose the correct option, and Link can find himself walking away with up to 50 extra Rupees in his satchel. While certainly rudimentary, these mini-games gave the original an extra touch of depth to the playing experience. Whether on the battlefield or gambling for rupees in a hidden cave, Link always goes all or nothing.

The Digging Game in is a blend of chance and strategy, and a huge