The Epic and Heartfelt Bond of Zelda and Link

Link and Zelda have long been regarded as one of gaming's ultimate power couples. No matter the state of Hyrule, they are always ready to face the challenge together, using their combined strengths and the power of the Triforce to battle whatever incarnation of Ganon threatens the kingdom. The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is no exception, highlighting the unbreakable bond between the two heroes as they once again face off against evil. While the game doesn't outright establish a romantic relationship between them, it does offer a glimpse into the growth and evolution of their connection since the events of Breath of the Wild. Overall, Tears of the Kingdom provides a fantastic showcase of the dynamic and enduring partnership between Link and Zelda.

This article contains spoilers for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom

8 A True Companionship

Tears of the Kingdom follows the lead of Breath of the Wild with its use of environmental storytelling, and much of this narrative implies a deep friendship between Zelda and Link. Zelda's diary reveals how Link is always by her side, and he is also well-known to all of her closest friends and allies. Despite Link's reserved personality, it is evident that Zelda speaks of him often or spends a lot of time in his company.

7 A Shared Home

As Zelda and Link venture into the caverns beneath Hyrule Castle to investigate the mysterious Gloom plaguing the land, their familiarity with each other is evident from the very beginning. Despite the gravity of their mission, the two share a deep level of comfort in each other's company. While previous Legend of Zelda games have portrayed them as close friends, Tears of the Kingdom takes their relationship to a more mature and devoted level.

The dynamics of adult relationships have always been a topic of discussion among fans, with one of the most noticeable aspects being the pair's connection. Tears of the Kingdom brings a big change to Breath of the Wild's side quest, where Link purchases a house in Hateno Village. The game refers to the same house as Zelda's house, featuring only one bed in the same spot upstairs, which has sparked further debate among players.

Link is able to sleep in a particular bed found in the game, a privilege he can only enjoy in beds he owns or pays for at an inn. Additionally, players who have completed the Breath of the Wild’s DLC and obtained the Picture of the Champions item will notice that the same picture is still displayed in the house located in Tears of the Kingdom. These elements, along with Zelda's statement that Link never leaves her side, have sparked a lot of fan theories about the possibility of the two characters living together. Although not officially confirmed, this subtle detail provides a hint of a potentially more romantic relationship between them than in previous installments of the game.

6 A Generous Nature

In the diary discovered in Zelda’s hidden study behind her Hateno home, she reveals her intention to gift Link with a brand new Champion’s Tunic. Her words express the depth of her generosity and excitement to see his reaction upon receiving it.

This article highlights the admirable qualities of Link as a devoted partner to Zelda. Despite the dangers he faces in his quest to find her, Link remains committed to her through small acts of kindness, such as holding the torch for her while she takes photos of the discovered murals.

5 A Common Goal

In typical Legend of Zelda fashion, the game showcases the strong bond between Zelda and Link through subtle hints in the environment and powerful emotional cutscenes, as opposed to allowing them to spend ample time together in-game. Despite their physical distance, their actions are closely linked, demonstrating their unwavering unity.

Zelda and Link were separated by time when she accidentally traveled into the past with the help of a Secret Stone. Link sets out to find her by investigating the strange sightings of the princess throughout the land while Zelda tries to find a way back to the future. As the threat of the Demon King looms, their focus shifts to defeating him, despite being centuries apart. Nevertheless, both characters are always fighting for the same cause.

4 A Connection Through Time

Despite the vast expanse of time and distance between them, Zelda and Link's connection remains unbroken. Their bond seems to transcend the limits of fate, magic, love, and even destiny. The universe conspires to bring these two heroes together, weaving their paths to ensure they work towards their shared goals on both sides.

3 A Dedication To The Other’s Success

After the Master Sword shatters, Link is taken to the Sky Islands by Rauru’s spirit to recover. During his healing process, a mysterious glowing portal appears and calls out for the Master Sword. The portal then travels back in time to deliver the sword to Princess Zelda. Although the game doesn't provide a clear explanation for the portal's origin, it's possible that Light Magic or Time Magic, both of which are known to be part of Zelda's abilities, could be the source. Regardless of its origin, the fact that this portal transcends time and space is a testament to the strength of the bond between Zelda and Link.

The relationship between Zelda and Link is built on a foundation of loyalty, which is exemplified in Tears of the Kingdom like never before in any other Legend of Zelda game. Link's unwavering commitment to finding Princess Zelda, his constant presence by her side, and his readiness to defend Hyrule for her not only reflect his role as her personal guard, but also demonstrate his passion for her cause.

Zelda's unwavering commitment and loyalty have been evident throughout history. She not only speaks highly of Link to anyone who will listen, but she also goes to great lengths to secure the support of all the sages. Through her unwavering dedication, every sage pledges the full support of their people to aid a hero who will not be seen for centuries.

2 A Link To Humanity

One of the most poignant and heartrending storylines in Tears of the Kingdom involves Zelda's ultimate sacrifice. A shocking revelation unveils that Zelda had been present all along, though unrecognizable to those who held her dear. In a heart-wrenching cutscene, players witness Zelda consuming her Secret Stone and transforming into the Light Dragon.

1 A Warm, Loving Embrace

In the game, the act of sacrificing all humanity and losing one's mind is revealed as irreversible and forbidden by the Zonai. Despite this knowledge, Zelda is unwavering in her decision to undergo this process as it is the only way for the Master Sword to be fully healed and reach Link. Despite becoming mindless and draconified, Zelda persists through the ages and manages to call out to Link for help.

The pinnacle of emotional scenes in the game is undoubtedly the climax. Utilizing the combined strength of Sonia and Rauru’s spirits, Link channels his energy towards the transformed Zelda and envelops her in a brilliant radiance. Thanks to Link's intervention, Zelda is restored to her original form and regains her Hylian identity.

Link and Zelda hurtle towards the kingdom's surface, and players are prompted to guide them through the air to meet each other. In a scene reminiscent of the opening, Link grasps Zelda's hand and pulls her close, landing safely in the water below. After Link rescues her, Zelda describes her time as a dragon as if she had been asleep for centuries, only to be awakened by a "warm, loving embrace." It's evident that Link is an essential part of this embrace, whether it's due to his heroic rescue or his combined transformative power with Sonia and Rauru. The game leaves players with the comforting notion that regardless of what happens, Link and Zelda will always find their way back into each other's arms.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is available now on Nintendo Switch.