The Legend of Zelda series has consistently enchanted gamers since 1986, establishing itself as a pillar of gaming. The Nintendo Switch generation saw the franchise reach unprecedented heights with genre-defining entries. Looking ahead to 2026 and the upcoming Switch 2, the world of Hyrule promises even more adventures. This article details every Legend of Zelda title available on the Nintendo Switch, alongside a glimpse into what’s coming for the Switch 2.
How Many Zelda Games Are There on Nintendo Switch?
The Nintendo Switch has been a significant platform for the Legend of Zelda franchise, hosting a variety of adventures. By 2026, the console will have seen the release of five primary Legend of Zelda titles, three Hyrule Warriors spin-offs, and one unique rhythm-action game. All these titles are fully compatible with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, ensuring seamless continuation of play for new hardware owners. This robust collection showcases the series’ enduring appeal and diverse gameplay styles available to fans.
All Zelda Switch Games in Order of Release Date
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – 2017
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch
Launching with the Nintendo Switch, Breath of the Wild redefined open-world gaming and the Zelda series itself. Players experienced unprecedented freedom, able to explore Hyrule from any visible point. Link awakens from a century-long slumber, tasked with confronting Calamity Ganon, a formidable evil imprisoned within Hyrule Castle, to save Princess Zelda. This title introduced innovative physics-based puzzles and survival mechanics, alongside a vast, interconnected world that captivated a global audience.
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition – 2018
Hyrule Warriors: Definitive Edition – Nintendo Switch
This hack-and-slash spin-off from Omega Force brought the chaotic “Warriors” gameplay to the Zelda universe. Originally a Wii U title, the Definitive Edition for Switch compiles all previously released content, including characters, maps, and modes. It features a sprawling roster of heroes and villains from across the Zelda timeline, allowing players to decimate hordes of enemies. Additionally, it incorporated fresh costumes inspired by Breath of the Wild for Link and Zelda, offering a comprehensive and action-packed experience for fans.
Cadence of Hyrule – 2019
Cadence of Hyrule – Nintendo Switch
A unique collaboration, Cadence of Hyrule blends the roguelike rhythm mechanics of Crypt of the NecroDancer with the iconic characters and setting of The Legend of Zelda. Players must move and attack to the beat of fantastic remixed Zelda music, navigating procedurally generated dungeons. Link, Zelda, and Cadence unite to face Octavo, a new musical antagonist threatening Hyrule. Its vibrant pixel art and engaging rhythmic combat offer a fresh, challenging, and highly addictive take on the classic adventure formula.
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening – 2019
The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening – Switch
The charming 2019 remake of the 1993 Game Boy classic, Link’s Awakening transports Link to the mysterious Koholint Island after a shipwreck. To escape, he must gather the eight Instruments of the Sirens and awaken the legendary Wind Fish. This title offers a more traditional, top-down Zelda adventure with intricate dungeons and memorable characters, all brought to life with a captivating toy-like art style. It provides a delightful and nostalgic journey distinct from the open-world entries.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity – 2020
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Calamity – Switch
Serving as a canonical prequel to Breath of the Wild, Age of Calamity immerses players in the Great Calamity that occurred a century prior. Fans can witness the epic struggle against Calamity Ganon firsthand, playing as Link, Princess Zelda, the four Champions, and even a tiny Guardian. This installment expands on the frenetic Warriors gameplay with elements directly from Breath of the Wild, including runes and cooking, making it an essential narrative piece for fans of the modern Hyrule lore.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD – 2021
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD – Nintendo Switch
The remastered version of the Wii classic, Skyward Sword HD, brings the origin story of the Master Sword to the Switch. Link embarks on an aerial journey from Skyloft to the surface world below, striving to rescue his childhood friend, Zelda. This enhanced edition features smoother visuals and refined motion controls using the Joy-Cons, alongside a new button-only control option for a more conventional play style. It’s a pivotal tale in the Zelda timeline, revealing the foundational elements of Hyrule’s legends.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – 2023
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch
A highly anticipated sequel to Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom launched to immense acclaim. Link once again seeks Princess Zelda after the resurrection of Ganondorf, navigating not only the familiar land of Hyrule but also vast new sky islands and expansive subterranean depths. The game introduced innovative building mechanics like “Ultrahand” and “Fuse,” empowering players with unparalleled creativity in solving puzzles and combat scenarios. Its expansive world and endless possibilities cemented its status as a monumental achievement in gaming.
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom – 2024
The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom – Switch
Breaking new ground for the series, Echoes of Wisdom places Princess Zelda herself in the starring role. When Link and other Hyrule residents disappear into mysterious rifts, Zelda wields the Tri Rod, a magical artifact allowing her to create “echoes” of objects and enemies. This unique ability underpins the game’s inventive puzzle-solving and combat, all presented in a charming, stylized art direction reminiscent of Link’s Awakening. This mainline entry offers a fresh perspective, emphasizing Zelda’s wisdom and resourcefulness.
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment – 2025
Set to expand the lore even further, Age of Imprisonment is another canonical entry in the Hyrule Warriors series. This title delves into the ancient Imprisoning War, acting as a prequel to Tears of the Kingdom. Players explore critical historical events with a wide array of playable characters, including Princess Zelda, who finds herself transported into Hyrule’s distant past. She must forge new alliances to combat Ganondorf’s formidable power, offering deeper insights into the eternal conflict that shapes Hyrule.
Available Zelda Games With Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack
For fans eager to revisit the series’ roots, the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription grants access to a treasure trove of classic Zelda adventures from older Nintendo consoles. This service allows subscribers to play many beloved titles that predate the Switch era, significantly broadening the available Zelda library. Here is a selection of iconic games currently accessible through the service:
- The Legend of Zelda (NES)
- Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (NES)
- The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (SNES)
- The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (Nintendo 64)
- The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening DX (Game Boy Color)
- The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask (Nintendo 64)
- The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap (Game Boy Advance)
- The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages (Game Boy Color)
- The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons (Game Boy Color)
- The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker (GameCube, exclusive to Switch 2’s GameCube library)
What’s Next for Zelda on Switch 2?
While no new mainline Legend of Zelda games for the Switch 2 have been announced beyond 2026, Nintendo typically plans releases well in advance. Fans can expect future announcements for core series titles, which are undoubtedly in development. In the interim, Nintendo has confirmed exciting new ventures that will extend the Zelda brand beyond gaming platforms.
LEGO The Legend of Zelda
Following the popular Great Deku Tree set, Nintendo has teased another official LEGO The Legend of Zelda collaboration. This upcoming set is expected to draw inspiration specifically from Ocarina of Time, potentially featuring iconic locations or characters from that beloved entry. Slated for release in 2026, this building set will allow fans to construct intricate models inspired by Hyrule’s rich history, bringing a tangible piece of the legend into their homes.
Upcoming Zelda Movie
Nintendo is also bringing The Legend of Zelda to the silver screen with a highly anticipated live-action film. Directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, the movie aims for a “grounded” adaptation with a visual style akin to “live-action Miyazaki.” Set to premiere in theaters on March 26, 2027, the project has already confirmed actors for the iconic roles of Link and Zelda, promising a cinematic interpretation that fans have long dreamed of.
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