The Zelda Series Needs a Character-Centric Reboot

The Legend of Zelda games have enchanted players for decades, with nearly every installment casting them in the role of Link. This courageous hero has evolved in interesting ways across his various adventures, each time delivering captivating stories. Yet as iconic as Link’s quests to save Hyrule may be, there’s a growing notion that perhaps it’s time to shake things up a bit. A reboot could offer exactly that by introducing a new hero, and there’s one character in particular who seems perfect for the task.

Throughout its rich history, The Legend of Zelda franchise has introduced fans to a diverse cast of memorable characters. One of the most intriguing, who hasn’t been seen much since her debut, is Linkle—a spirited female counterpart to Link. First appearing in the 2016 Nintendo 3DS game Hyrule Warriors Legends, Linkle quickly gained a following. Yet despite her popularity, she’s remained on the sidelines. Reviving the series with Linkle as the central figure could prove not only refreshing but also highly appealing.

The concept of a Legend of Zelda reboot centered on Linkle is compelling for several reasons. For starters, players have long been clamoring for her return, and an entire game based around her would likely generate a lot of excitement. Linkle was created as a female version of Link, and given how well fans received her, it’s easy to see her transitioning into a lead role. Moreover, her unique weapon choice—dual crossbows—offers a fresh gameplay angle, moving away from the iconic Master Sword to provide new combat experiences.

Though Linkle might not be a household name among all Zelda enthusiasts, she left a notable impact during her short time in the spotlight. This makes her a fantastic choice for a reboot’s main character, particularly considering the nostalgia and novel possibilities she represents. Bringing her back would not only innovate gameplay but also give her a chance to establish her own place in the franchise.

A fresh Zelda game featuring Linkle freshens up the storyline in meaningful ways. If Linkle’s mere existence suggests a universe where characters might have alternate realities, imagine the scope for creativity this could allow. A Zelda game set in an alternate timeline opens the door to a myriad of possibilities like a male version of Zelda or even a female Ganondorf. Such transformative ideas could inject new energy into the series, offering fans new dynamics and themes to explore.

While a reboot isn’t necessarily what fans usually expect from The Legend of Zelda, it could very well be a worthwhile exploration. By making Linkle the protagonist, a new game could deliver exciting innovations and storylines, focusing, for example, on her signature crossbow combat. This approach would not only bring fresh perspectives to the gameplay but also help cement Linkle’s status as one of gaming’s standout female characters.