The Legend of Zelda seems to alter its approach to game design with each new release. From the linearity that Link's Awakening adopts on Koholint Island to the unstructured expanse of Breath of the Wild, the franchise never seems to linger on one philosophy for too long. There are, however, plenty of recurring themes and items that ensure each Zelda game feels like it belongs alongside the last. Rupees, Heart Containers, Link's plucky personality, and the majesty of Hyrule itself are more often than not essential components of each new entry.
Another mainstay in The Legend of Zelda is companions, often cropping up to assist Link's quest to rid the land of evil and restore peace to Hyrule. Not all journeys have a companion, but enough are present to make it feel like an omission when Link must complete his task alone. Breath of the Wild feels lonely, and while this is perhaps by design the solitude is evident from the game's opening stages and never truly goes away. Link's grappling of the wild is the most important element of the game, but his collaboration with other quirky personalities often makes for the series' best moments.
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The King of Red Lions: Appearing in The Wind Waker as a critical character for the story and gameplay, The King of Red Lions comes to Link in his hour of need, and is as useful as he is charming. Not only does The King of Red Lions offer informative and entertaining dialogue, but his form as a boat makes getting around the Great Sea possible. His wisdom is evident from the get-go, so when it's revealed that he is actually the King of Hyrule and Tetra is the Princess Zelda, it makes complete sense.
Epona: Althou
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