After Nearly 8 Years, Breath Of The Wild Still Has The Best Version Of Zelda

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Nearly eight years following its release, it's hard to deny just how much improved and expanded on the series as a whole. From the emphasis on exploration and player freedom, to the gorgeous cel-shaded art style, there are many factors that manages to do better than many of its predecessors. One particular area in which does better than previous entries is with the characterization of the titular character herself, Princess Zelda.

's narrative is far from the highlight of the game. Its story is bare-bones and loosely strung together, likely done in order to keep the player focused on the expansive open world that desperately wants to be explored. However, while the story itself may not be a highlight, Zelda's personal journey within that narrative certainly is. In fact, through her characterization and impact on the overall game, is arguably home to the best iteration of Zelda to date.

The reason why has the best version of Zelda is in large part due to her relatability. Through 's memory flashbacks, the player watches Zelda as she consistently struggles to fulfill her role as a princess, as well as the destiny that's been placed upon her as a descendant of the Goddess Hylia. Throughout 's story, Zelda gets into conflict with both Link and her father, King Rhoam, as she feels unfit for the role that has been bestowed upon her.

It's this internal struggle Zelda faces throughout 's narrative that allows the player to easily resonate with the princess. Zelda's conflict between the nerdy, independent person she is and the powerful, steadfast leader Hyrule needs her to be can be empathized with by an audience who have likely wrestled with their own unrealistic expectations put upon them by others. It's this human element that gives Zelda her relatability in , allowing the player to connect with the princess beyond her royal status.

That connection establishes between the player and Zelda helps to make the princess's more vulnerable moments all the more powerful.