Is “Tears of the Kingdom” Before “Skyward Sword”? A Deep Dive into the Zelda Franchise’s Chronology
The Legend of Zelda, a beloved video game series, has captivated players for decades with its intricate storylines, immersive worlds, and memorable characters. One of the most frequently debated topics among fans is the chronological order of certain games within the series. Specifically, many have wondered: is “Tears of the Kingdom” set before “Skyward Sword”? This article delves into the evidence and theories surrounding this question, aiming to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Zelda franchise’s timeline.
Understanding the Zelda Timeline
The Zelda timeline is a complex web of interconnected games, each with its own unique setting and characters. While the series has no official release order, fans have pieced together a timeline based on various clues within the games themselves. This timeline typically places “Ocarina of Time” as the first game in the series, followed by “Majora’s Mask,” “The Wind Waker,” “Twilight Princess,” “Skyward Sword,” and “Breath of the Wild.” However, the placement of “Tears of the Kingdom” within this timeline remains a subject of debate.
Evidence for “Tears of the Kingdom” Being Before “Skyward Sword”
One of the main pieces of evidence suggesting that “Tears of the Kingdom” is set before “Skyward Sword” is the character Link. In “Skyward Sword,” Link is a young man who has just graduated from the Skyloft Academy and is about to embark on his adventure. In “Tears of the Kingdom,” Link is an adult with a family and a kingdom to rule. This age difference suggests that “Tears of the Kingdom” must have occurred after “Skyward Sword.”
Another clue comes from the game’s setting. “Skyward Sword” takes place in the sky, on the floating island of Skyloft. In contrast, “Tears of the Kingdom” is set on the ground, in a vast and diverse kingdom. This shift in setting could imply that “Tears of the Kingdom” is a continuation of Link’s story after he has left Skyloft and established his own kingdom.
Theories and Speculations
Despite the evidence suggesting that “Tears of the Kingdom” is set before “Skyward Sword,” some fans have proposed alternative theories. One such theory is that “Tears of the Kingdom” could be a parallel universe version of the events in “Skyward Sword.” This would explain the age difference and the different settings, as both games could be set in separate timelines.
Another theory is that “Tears of the Kingdom” could be a prequel to “Skyward Sword,” with Link’s journey in “Skyward Sword” serving as a bridge between the two games. This would allow for a more cohesive narrative, with “Tears of the Kingdom” eventually leading up to the events of “Skyward Sword.”
Conclusion
While the debate over whether “Tears of the Kingdom” is set before “Skyward Sword” may never be officially resolved, fans can enjoy the rich tapestry of the Zelda franchise’s timeline regardless. The series’ intricate storylines and interconnected worlds continue to captivate players, leaving plenty of room for speculation and imagination. Whether “Tears of the Kingdom” is a prequel, a sequel, or a parallel universe tale, it remains a crucial part of the Zelda legacy.
