Ganondorf's Ultimate Tier List Across all Legend of Zelda Games

The return of Ganondorf has played a major role in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom becoming the fastest-selling game of the franchise. Ganondorf, who has been a recurring character since the original NES version, has evolved throughout the series. He has appeared in various forms, including a giant porcine monster, but is best known for his humanoid iterations that have served as intimidating villains in Link's renowned adventures. While each version of Ganondorf has its unique identity, some have stood out more than others.

D Tier

Ganondorf (Hyrule Warriors)

Ganondorf's appearance in Hyrule Warriors as a playable character is a welcomed addition, but his design leaves something to be desired. While it does incorporate elements from his previous iterations, the homogenized look lacks the distinct character of its inspirations. As a C-tier character, Ganondorf's presence highlights just how impressive his iconic appearances truly are.

Demise, the antagonist of Skyward Sword, is a controversial figure in the Zelda franchise. While he isn't named Ganondorf, he is responsible for creating the evil legacy that Ganondorf embodies in the future. Despite being the most intimidating and godlike iteration of the character, Demise falls lower on the ranking due to his lack of presence until the end of the game. Prior to this, he is encountered only as a meandering boss called The Imprisoned, who is more reminiscent of an evil avocado than the "source of all monsters." As a result, Demise lands in the B Tier of Zelda villains.

Ganondorf's debut as a Gerudo in Ocarina of Time marked a significant moment for the character. Prior to this game, he was simply known as Ganon, a pig monster lacking the striking characterization that would make him a legendary villain. With his new title as the "King of Evil," Ganondorf rose to fill a real role in the game's narrative. His cunning nature allowed him to manipulate Link, always seeming to be one step ahead of the player as his dark plans succeeded. While he may be only in the B-tier, this version of Ganondorf laid the foundation for his absolute best appearances.

A Tier

Ganondorf (The Wind Waker)

The decision to completely change the art style of the Zelda series with Wind Waker's cel-shaded graphics was a controversial move. Despite the game's cute aesthetic, it offered one of the most unique and well-developed portrayals of Ganondorf. Unlike previous iterations, this Ganondorf embraces his identity as a warlock and appears regal and aged in his long-sleeved robe. What sets him apart is his fierce motivation for terraforming and reshaping the world.

In Twilight Princess, Ganondorf is perhaps the darkest version of the character and is technically the same one from Ocarina of Time. His darkness is amplified in this game, making him a master manipulator of the Twilight Realm and a powerful influence over all the other enemies. The final battle with his intimidating, knightly presence is unforgettable.

S Tier

Demon King Ganondorf (Tears of the Kingdom)

This latest version of Ganondorf in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has taken all of his best traits from previous iterations and combined them into the ultimate version. Thanks to the buildup in Breath of the Wild, this Ganondorf encompasses elements of several other versions while still feeling like a fresh take. He possesses the regal and skilled swordsman qualities of Twilight Princess and Ocarina, the brawn and pure malevolence of Skyward Sword, and even an evolved, scheming design from Wind Waker. Add in an epic, multi-form final boss battle and the end result is the greatest Ganondorf in the entire Legend of Zelda franchise. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom can be found on Switch now.