Best Zelda Games & Merch for the 40th Anniversary [2025]

Introduction: Why Zelda's 40 Years Matter More Than Ever

Four decades. That's how long Link has been rescuing Princess Zelda, solving puzzles in dungeons, and making us yell at our TVs because we can't figure out where that one key goes. The Legend of Zelda franchise launched on February 21, 1986, and honestly, it's hard to overstate how much gaming would be different without it.

Here's the thing: when the original game hit the NES, video games were still figuring out what they wanted to be. Zelda showed us. It proved that games could have depth, exploration, and memorable worlds. It proved that a game could be hard but fair. It proved that magic existed in the medium.

Fast forward four decades, and the franchise has evolved from a simple top-down adventure into the sprawling, physics-bending brilliance of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. It's shifted from 8-bit pixels to photorealistic landscapes. Yet somehow, it's kept that same spark of wonder that made the original so special.

Now that we're at the 40th anniversary milestone, Nintendo is celebrating in earnest. New merchandise is dropping. Limited editions are becoming available. And if you're like most Zelda fans, you're probably thinking about whether you should finally commit to that collector's edition you've been eyeing or grab that premium Hylian Shield replica you saw online.

This guide isn't just about throwing money at anything with the Triforce on it. We're here to help you find the stuff that actually matters, the items that'll make your collection shine, and the games you absolutely need to own if you call yourself a Zelda fan. Whether you're looking to dive into the mainline games, pick up premium accessories that won't fall apart after two weeks, or display pieces that'll make your gaming room look like a museum (the good kind, not the dusty kind), we've got you covered.

Let's start with the games themselves.

The Essential Zelda Games You Need to Own Right Now

Tears of the Kingdom: The Modern Masterpiece

Tears of the Kingdom isn't just the latest mainline Zelda game. It's the moment where the franchise proved it could evolve beyond even Breath of the Wild's wildly successful formula. Released in 2023 for Nintendo Switch, this game is an absolute must-own, and here's why.

The game takes place roughly six years after the events of Breath of the Wild, but the Hyrule you know is fundamentally changed. Floating islands now hover in the sky. Ancient technology has reemerged. Zelda herself has vanished. And Link wakes up with a new arm that grants him reality-bending powers.

That's not just flavor text, either. Those powers—Ultrahand (which lets you manipulate objects in 3D space), Fuse (which combines items in wild ways), Ascend (which lets you phase through ceilings), and Recall (which rewinds object movement)—completely reshape how you solve puzzles and approach combat. The developers clearly understood that simply making Breath of the Wild bigger and prettier wouldn't cut it. They needed to give players fundamentally new ways to play.

The result is staggering. You can build vehicles to cross deserts. You can create absurd weapons by fusing monster parts with random objects. You can solve the same puzzle three completely different ways depending on what materials you've gathered. The freedom here rivals or exceeds its predecessor, which is saying something.

Performance-wise, it's not perfect. The frame rate dips in crowded areas, and there's some occasional pop-in. But these are minor complaints about a game that offers 60+ hours of pure exploration and discovery. If you own a Switch and don't have this game, that's your 40th anniversary gift right there.

Breath of the Wild: The Game That Changed Everything

Some games age well. Breath of the Wild has somehow aged backwards, becoming more impressive in hindsight. Released in 2017 as a Switch launch title, it was the moment Nintendo decided to blow up the formula that had defined Zelda for three decades.

Instead of a linear progression through dungeons, you climb a mountain and glide off it in the first five minutes. Instead of locking you into a specific path, the game asks you to identify three key locations and reach them however you want. The tutorial is a shrine. Then you're free.

That philosophy permeates everything. Stuck on a puzzle? There's usually five ways to solve it. Want to fight a boss early? You can, if you're brave (or foolish). Want to ignore the main quest and spend 40 hours hunting for Koroks and shrines? The game lets you. It respects your time and your choices in a way most games don't.

The achievement here can't be overstated. Breath of the Wild fundamentally changed how open-world games are designed. You can see its influence everywhere in modern game design. And unlike many games that pioneer new ideas and then get left behind, Breath of the Wild still holds up gorgeously.

Yes, Tears of the Kingdom is probably the better game now. But Breath of the Wild is essential for understanding why Zelda fans were so excited, and it remains an absolute masterpiece. If you somehow haven't played it, grab it. You've got 60+ hours of pure joy ahead of you.

Ocarina of Time: The N64 Classic (via Nintendo Switch Online)

Ocarina of Time is probably the most influential Zelda game ever made. Released in 1998 for Nintendo 64, it took the Zelda formula into 3D and somehow made it work better than anyone expected.

The game follows Link's journey from a young boy in Kokiri Forest to an adult hero saving Hyrule from Ganon's darkness. It introduces Ocarina playing as a gameplay mechanic. It features some of the most iconic dungeons in the series, particularly the Water Temple (which, yes, is infamous for driving players insane).

The genius of Ocarina of Time is how it learned from the original game but made it three-dimensional. The same exploration philosophy remains, just expanded vertically. The same puzzle-solving logic applies, just with new dimensions to consider.

Now, the catch: Ocarina of Time is available through Nintendo Switch Online, which costs money but gives you access to a massive library of classic games. For the 40th anniversary, it's absolutely worth revisiting. The controls take a moment to adjust to, but the game is timeless.

The Wind Waker & Twilight Princess: The Underrated Gems

After Ocarina of Time's massive success, Nintendo faced a tricky situation: how do you follow up the most beloved Zelda game ever made? The answer: you split into two completely different directions.

The Wind Waker (2002) chose cartoonish, sailing-based exploration with cel-shaded graphics that looked bizarre at the time but are absolutely gorgeous now. It's fast-paced, colorful, and features some genuinely clever puzzle design. The fact that it's set on an ocean with dozens of islands to explore gives it a completely different vibe than any other Zelda game.

Twilight Princess (2006) went the opposite direction: darker, more serious, with a hero who can transform into a wolf and a world that's been corrupted by shadow. It's grittier, more combat-focused, and has some genuinely unsettling moments.

Both are phenomenal games that don't get enough credit. They're available on Wii U or through emulation on Switch Online if you subscribe to the right tier. For the 40th anniversary, if you've only ever played the recent mainline games, these are essential experiences.

The Handheld Classics: Link's Awakening and the Oracle Games

Before Breathe of the Wild redefined what Zelda could be, there were the handheld games. These weren't side projects or spin-offs; they were full-featured adventures that proved the franchise could thrive on Game Boy and Game Boy Color.

Link's Awakening is fascinating because it's weird. It's set on a strange island where Link doesn't know how he got there. Creatures from other franchises show up. Reality feels off. It's unsettling in the best way, and the 2019 Switch remake with completely redone graphics is absolutely stunning.

The Oracle games (Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages) are more traditional Zelda experiences but with their own charm. They feature a linking system where you can carry data from one game to the other, unlocking new content. It's a clever mechanic that few games attempt.

These aren't as essential as Breath of the Wild or Ocarina of Time, but they're wonderful experiences if you want to understand the full breadth of what the franchise has offered.

The Ultimate Zelda Accessories and Hardware

Official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: The Hylian Shield Edition

Let's be honest: if you're going to play Zelda games on Switch, you want a controller that feels good and looks the part. Nintendo released special-edition Pro Controllers for the 40th anniversary, including a Hylian Shield design that's absolutely stunning.

The Pro Controller itself is one of the best gaming controllers ever made. The button placement feels natural, the grip is comfortable even for extended play sessions, and the responsiveness is tight. The rumble is surprisingly sophisticated, with nuanced feedback that adds immersion without being annoying.

The Hylian Shield variant takes this proven hardware and wraps it in franchise theming. The metallic gold accents catch light beautifully. The design is instantly recognizable to any Zelda fan. And unlike some licensed controllers that feel cheap, this thing genuinely feels premium.

Price-wise, it's a bit of a splurge at around $70-75, but it's going to hold up longer than cheaper controllers and actually makes playing Zelda games feel more connected to the franchise. It's the kind of accessory that enhances the experience.

Premium Game Card Holders and Storage Solutions

If you're collecting physical Zelda games (which you absolutely should be), you need somewhere to store them that doesn't involve a pile on your floor. Premium game card holders designed specifically for Switch cartridges have become genuinely appealing options.

The best ones feature custom Zelda artwork, hold 20+ cartridges, and have a protective clear front so you can display your collection without worrying about dust. Some even have built-in stands so you can display them on a shelf rather than tucked away in a drawer.

These aren't just functional storage. They're display pieces. They show off your collection while protecting your games. And honestly, there's something satisfying about seeing all your Zelda games lined up together, knowing that you've got this incredible catalog of adventures in your collection.

Look for ones with reinforced plastic and magnetic closures. You want something that'll last years, not something that'll crack after six months.

Screen Protectors and Portable Carry Cases

The Switch screen is surprisingly durable, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't protect it. A quality tempered glass screen protector is cheap insurance against fingerprints, scratches, and the occasional accidental drop.

For portable play, a carrying case designed for Switch is essential. You're transporting a tablet-sized screen and a 300-hour game library. A good case protects that investment. Look for ones with game card storage, stylus holders, and padded interiors. Zelda-themed cases in particular add personality without sacrificing functionality.

These might seem like boring accessories compared to replica weapons or figurines, but they're the stuff that keeps your expensive hardware and software collection in pristine condition. Future you will appreciate present you for being responsible.

Display and Collectible Pieces That Define Your Space

The Hylian Shield Replica: Wall-Mounting Your Legend

Let's talk about the big-ticket collectible item that sits at the center of any serious Zelda collection: a premium Hylian Shield replica.

Nintendo released an official version as part of the 30th anniversary, and it's genuinely impressive. It's roughly three feet tall, features the iconic triforce symbol in the center, and looks like the weapon Link carries. The detailing is meticulous, from the metallic accents to the wear patterns that make it look battle-worn.

The catch? It's expensive. We're talking $200-300 for the official version. But if you're going to spend real money on a Zelda collectible, this is the one. It's instantly recognizable, it's conversation-starting, and it looks incredible when wall-mounted above your gaming setup.

Third-party versions exist for less money, but they vary wildly in quality. If you're dropping cash on a replica weapon, go official. The build quality justifies the cost.

Where you mount it matters too. It needs to be somewhere prominent but not so high that it looks awkward. A wall directly behind your gaming setup works. A gaming room entrance works. Avoid hiding it in a corner—this is a statement piece.

Figurine Collections and Display Shelves

The Zelda figurine game is strong. Nintendo releases official figures regularly, and there are high-quality third-party options too. Building a collection doesn't require a massive budget, but displaying it does.

A quality display shelf costs $50-100, but it transforms your figurines from random items scattered around to an actual exhibit. Look for shelves with good lighting (LED strips add drama), enough depth for larger figures, and enough height variation to create visual interest.

Popular figures to hunt down include detailed Link figures in various outfit incarnations (Hero of Time, Twilight Princess, Champion's Tunic), Zelda herself, Ganon, and Amiibo figures that serve double duty as both collectibles and functional Switch accessories.

Honestly, the satisfaction of a well-curated figurine display rivals the gameplay itself. There's something deeply satisfying about seeing your heroes rendered in three dimensions, displayed proudly.

Wall Art and Canvas Prints

Not everyone wants a giant replica shield on their wall, which is fair. Canvas prints of iconic Zelda scenes offer a more subtle way to show your fandom while adding personality to a gaming room.

Quality matters here more than you'd think. A cheap canvas print looks exactly like what it is: cheap. The colors fade, the stretching looks wrong, and the overall vibe is off. Spend a bit extra for professional-quality prints on museum-quality canvas, and you've got something that looks like gallery art rather than dorm room decoration.

Popular options include the title screens from various games, iconic scene compositions (like Link standing before a dungeon entrance), and stylized artwork that reimagines the franchise in different artistic styles.

The benefit of art over statues is that it takes up less space while making a bigger visual impact. A 36x48 inch canvas of Breath of the Wild's landscape feels immersive in a way figurines can't quite match.

Zelda Amiibos: Collectible and Functional

Amiibos occupy a weird space in the collectible world: they're figurines, but they also unlock in-game content when scanned with your Switch. That dual functionality makes them feel less like pure collectibles and more like gaming hardware.

The Zelda Amiibo lineup is extensive. You can collect figures of every major character across different game iterations. Some are rare and command premium prices on secondary markets. Others are readily available. Hunting for the ones you're missing becomes its own mini-game.

Functionality-wise, Amiibos unlock useful items in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. Scan the Link Amiibo and you get gear from that specific game. It's not essential for progression, but it's a nice bonus.

Where Amiibos shine as collectibles is when you build complete series. Getting every Zelda Amiibo ever released is an achievable goal that gives your collection a thematic cohesion. Display them together, and you've got a visual timeline of the franchise.

Wearables and Apparel That Show Your Fandom

The Legend of Zelda T-Shirts and Hoodies

There's a huge spectrum when it comes to Zelda apparel. On one end, you've got low-quality graphic tees that'll fade and fall apart after 10 washes. On the other, you've got premium pieces that'll last years.

For the 40th anniversary, look for anniversary-specific designs rather than generic franchise apparel. Anniversary clothing often features commemorative artwork or special color schemes that instantly date it as celebrating this particular milestone. It becomes wearable history.

Official Nintendo Store merchandise tends to be pricier but higher quality. Third-party options are cheaper but more inconsistent. The sweet spot is finding a mid-range brand that specializes in gaming apparel—they understand gaming culture and make pieces that work for gamers specifically (pockets, durability, fit that works with controllers, etc.).

Personally, if I'm dropping $30-40 on a shirt, I want it to be something I'll actually wear regularly, not something that'll sit in my closet because the fit is weird or the print quality is terrible. Premium over quantity.

Hoodies and Jackets for True Fans

If you're going to rep the franchise in cold weather, a quality hoodie makes sense. The Zelda hoodie market has exploded over the past few years, with everything from minimalist designs (just a small Triforce) to elaborate full-back prints featuring iconic scenes.

The best hoodies are technically interesting. Look for ones with hidden pockets designed for controllers, zippers with custom branding, and materials that actually keep you warm rather than just looking cool. A hoodie that falls apart after a winter season defeats the purpose.

For the 40th anniversary, some official releases feature anniversary-specific artwork or colorways. These tend to be limited availability, so if you find one you like, grab it before it sells out.

Unique Gifts and Lesser-Known Must-Haves

Custom Keyboards and Gaming Peripherals

If you're playing Zelda games on PC through emulation or other means, a themed keyboard takes your setup from functional to beautiful. Mechanical keyboards with custom keycaps featuring Zelda designs have become surprisingly sophisticated.

Look for mechanical switches that match your playstyle (you probably want something responsive for gaming), quality stabilizers (cheap stabilizers rattle and feel wrong), and keycaps made from quality materials like PBT plastic or even aluminum.

A custom keyboard seems like an extreme collectible choice, but if you spend hours every day typing and gaming, your peripherals deserve attention. Using a keyboard that looks gorgeous and feels smooth actually does enhance the experience.

Zelda Vinyl Records and Soundtracks

The Legend of Zelda's music is genuinely incredible. From the original's simple 8-bit theme to Breath of the Wild's sweeping orchestral scores, the audio design has always been a franchise highlight.

Official vinyl records of various Zelda soundtracks have become surprisingly collectible. They look gorgeous on a record player, they sound phenomenal if you've got proper audio equipment, and they represent some genuinely beautiful game music.

Even if you don't have a record player, Zelda vinyl records are display pieces. The artwork is usually stunning, the packaging is premium, and it's a conversation starter that beats generic posters.

For serious collectors, there are limited-edition pressings with different colorways, special packaging, and exclusive liner notes. These tend to sell out, so catching them requires either getting lucky or following dedicated collector communities online.

Board Games and Puzzles

The Legend of Zelda has expanded beyond video games into tabletop experiences. There are licensed board games that capture the adventure and puzzle-solving of the video games, just in a different format.

These work as both collectibles and actual playable games, which is great if you have family or friends who might not engage with the video games but would enjoy a board game experience.

Jigsaw puzzles featuring Zelda artwork are another underrated option. A 1000-piece puzzle of an iconic scene becomes a meditation exercise that results in beautiful wall art once completed.

Gifts for Different Budget Levels

Budget-Friendly Options ($20-50)

You don't need a massive budget to celebrate the anniversary meaningfully. A quality screen protector and carrying case for your Switch runs maybe

Small figurines are often overlooked but inexpensive. A $15-20 Amiibo gives you something tangible to hold and display while also unlocking in-game content. Several of them add up to a meaningful collection without breaking the bank.

The key at this budget level is focusing on something you'll actually use. A carrying case protects an expensive investment. A subscription gives you access to incredible content. A t-shirt gets regular wear. These aren't just clutter; they're functional items that happen to celebrate the franchise.

Mid-Range Options ($50-150)

This budget range opens up more substantial collectibles. A premium game card holder costs maybe

At this level, you can grab a figurine set from a trusted third-party manufacturer. These are often higher quality than random online finds and come with proper packaging that makes them feel like genuine collectibles.

A limited-edition controller like the Hylian Shield Pro Controller sits right at the top of this range and punches above its weight in terms of impact. You use it regularly, it looks gorgeous, and it makes playing Zelda games feel more connected to the franchise.

Premium Collectibles ($150+)

Here's where things get serious. The official Hylian Shield replica costs $200-300 but is genuinely impressive and lasts forever. A limited-edition console, if Nintendo releases one for the anniversary, represents a significant investment but holds value and becomes increasingly rare over time.

Premium art prints on museum-quality canvas, professional-grade display cases with lighting, and rare vintage items command higher prices but create genuine museum-quality displays.

The rule at this level is buy things you genuinely love, not things you think will appreciate. Yes, some collectibles increase in value, but that shouldn't be the main driver. You should want to look at whatever you're buying regularly and smile.

Building Your Personal Zelda Shrine: Display Setup Ideas

Creating a Dedicated Gaming Space

If you're going to collect all this stuff, you need somewhere to put it that makes sense. Dedicated gaming spaces have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They're functional areas for playing, spaces for displaying collectibles, and rooms that reflect your personality.

Start with the gaming setup itself: a monitor or TV positioned at eye level, your console within arm's reach, adequate ventilation so your hardware doesn't overheat. Then add shelving around that core setup for figures, controllers, and games.

Lighting matters more than you'd think. LED strips behind shelves add drama and make figurines look better. A desk lamp positioned to avoid screen glare makes the space feel intentional rather than thrown together.

The goal isn't to recreate a Game Stop display. It's to create a space that feels personal, organized, and inspiring when you sit down to play.

Shelf Organization Strategies

Organization options include chronological (arrange figures by game release date), thematic (group by game world), or alphabetical (pure organization). Chronological is popular because it tells the story of the franchise's evolution.

Mix figurines with games and accessories for visual interest. An entire shelf of just figures feels monotonous. Shelves that mix figures, game cases, and interesting objects create better visual rhythm.

Use risers and platforms to create height variation. Not everything should sit on the same level. Stepping platforms let you layer collectibles, so smaller figures don't disappear behind larger ones.

Protecting Your Investment

If you're dropping serious money on collectibles, protecting them makes sense. Temperature and humidity extremes are the enemies of figurines and electronics. Keep your collection in a climate-controlled room, away from direct sunlight (which fades colors over time).

For sealed collectibles, keep them sealed. Yes, it's tempting to open them and display them without packaging, but sealed items maintain value better and are better protected from dust and damage.

For opened collectibles, dust regularly and use UV-protective cases if you're concerned about fading. Small investment in protective measures saves larger investments in replacements.

The Collector's Mindset: Why Zelda Merch Matters

Why We Collect

There's a psychology to collecting that goes beyond just accumulating stuff. A Zelda collection represents time, memory, and connection to a franchise that's shaped how you see gaming and storytelling.

That Hylian Shield on your wall isn't just a weapon replica. It's a tangible representation of decades of adventure, of beating impossibly hard dungeons, of moments where your brain clicked into puzzle-solving mode and everything made sense.

Each figure represents a character who's been part of your gaming journey. Each game in your physical collection is a doorway back to specific moments in your life. Your collection isn't stuff; it's a timeline of who you've been as a gamer.

Quality Over Quantity

You don't need to own every Zelda figure ever made. You need to own the ones that matter to you. A carefully curated collection of 10 premium pieces you absolutely love beats a haphazard collection of 50 random items.

This applies to games too. You don't need every obscure spin-off. But you do need the mainline classics that defined the franchise. You need Ocarina of Time, Breath of the Wild, and Tears of the Kingdom. Everything else is bonus.

When you're deciding whether to buy something, ask yourself: "Will I still be happy about this purchase six months from now?" If the answer isn't a definite yes, keep walking.

FAQ

What are the essential Zelda games for Switch?

The absolute must-haves are Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, and ideally access to Ocarina of Time through Nintendo Switch Online. These three represent the franchise's evolution and impact on gaming. Beyond that, Wind Waker, Twilight Princess, and Link's Awakening are phenomenal experiences that expand your understanding of what the franchise can do. Start with these, then explore other titles based on your preferences.

How much should I expect to spend on a quality Zelda collection?

You can build a meaningful collection at any budget. A

Are limited-edition controllers worth buying as collectibles?

Limited-edition controllers serve double duty: they're functional hardware you can use regularly, and they become rarer over time. If you actually play with the controller, it's absolutely worth buying because you get months or years of use while building collectible value. If you plan to keep it sealed and never use it, you're paying for speculative value rather than functional value. Use your collectors.

Where should I buy Zelda merchandise to avoid counterfeits?

Official sources include the Nintendo e Shop, Amazon, Best Buy, Game Stop, and specialty gaming retailers. e Bay and Facebook Marketplace require more caution because you're buying from individuals, which increases counterfeit risk. For import items or rare pieces, established collector communities on Reddit and Discord can point you toward reputable sellers. Always check seller ratings and be suspicious of prices that seem too good to be true—they usually are.

Is it worth collecting physical games if I have digital versions?

Yes, if display and physical possession matter to you. Digital games are convenient and never take up shelf space, but physical games are tactile collectibles you can display and resell if needed. The physical-versus-digital debate has practical considerations (storage space, resale value, trading with friends) and emotional ones (ownership feels different). Both are valid approaches.

How do I know if a third-party Zelda product is good quality before buying?

Check reviews from established gaming communities and collector channels. Look at user photos in reviews, not just product images. Be suspicious of products with minimal reviews or overwhelmingly negative ones mentioning durability or false advertising. Established retailers like Amazon have return policies that protect you if quality is worse than advertised. Starting with official Nintendo products and moving to trusted third-party brands reduces risk.

Should I open sealed collectibles or keep them in the box?

It depends on your collecting philosophy. Sealed items maintain condition longer and hold collectible value better, but you never experience them as intended. Opened items can degrade but give you the satisfaction of ownership and display. The best approach is honoring your own preferences—if you'd rather display a figure than keep it sealed, do it. Collecting is personal, not an investment exercise.

What makes the 40th anniversary special compared to other celebration merchandise?

Anniversary merchandise is limited-run and commemorative, making it more special than evergreen products. These items mark a specific moment in time and become historically significant. A 40th anniversary t-shirt from 2026 will represent this exact moment in franchise history. Limited availability also means these items become harder to find later, increasing their significance to collectors. It's worth prioritizing anniversary items if they appeal to you.

Conclusion: Celebrating Four Decades of Adventure

Four decades. Forty years of rescuing princesses, solving puzzles, defeating increasingly impossible bosses, and falling in love with worlds created by Nintendo's most creative teams. The Legend of Zelda didn't just define a generation of gaming. It shaped what gaming could be.

Celebrating that legacy isn't about spending the most money or owning the most stuff. It's about honoring the time the franchise has given you, the memories it's created, and the countless hours you've spent exploring its worlds.

Whether you grab Tears of the Kingdom and nothing else, build a full collection of games spanning the franchise's history, or go all-in with figurines, displays, and premium collectibles, you're celebrating something that genuinely matters. Games matter. Storytelling matters. Worlds that make us feel wonder and accomplishment matter.

The franchise has earned its 40 years. As a fan, you've probably earned the right to splurge a little on something that brings you joy. So go ahead. Buy that controller. Frame that art. Build that collection. You're not just buying stuff; you're investing in memories and celebrating a franchise that's given you countless hours of adventure.

And hey, maybe in another 40 years, your Zelda collection will be an incredible time capsule of 2025, the moment you decided to fully commit to celebrating this incredible series. That's worth something.

Now go forth. There's adventure waiting, and it's dangerous to go alone.