The Legend of Zelda review

The Legend of Zelda ranks second because no other NES game gives players so much world to explore. Nintendo's page describes the setup simply: the heroic Link sets out through Hyrule and has to recover the eight fragments of the Triforce to save Princess Zelda, using a sword, a shield and his wits. Along the way there are puzzle dungeons and a large number of secrets, and Nintendo notes that ideas introduced here still appear in Zelda games decades later. Collectors usually want the gold cartridge, which DKOldies lists at $69.99 before sales, so it costs nearly twice as much as Super Mario Bros. 3. The game is also in the Nintendo Switch Online NES library for players who just want to play. The catch for newcomers is direction: the game tells you very little, and many players keep a map open. If you like finding your own way, it is the best adventure on the console.

Who it is for

Players who want open exploration, dungeons and secrets more than quick action.

Price

Used NES cartridge from $69.99 at DKOldies (regular price, before sales).

Original price: $69.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 11, 2026.

Key features

• Link explores the world of Hyrule with a sword and shield
• Goal: recover the eight fragments of the Triforce
• Puzzle dungeons to clear
• Many secrets hidden across the map
• Included in the NES library for Nintendo Switch Online members

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: The game that started one of Nintendo's biggest series
• Strength: Gold cartridge is a display piece for collectors
• Strength: Easy to play legally through Nintendo Switch Online
• Weakness: At $69.99 used it is among the priciest carts here
• Weakness: Open structure gives new players few hints on where to go next
• Weakness: Less immediate than Mario for children

Key facts

• Publisher: Nintendo
• Genre: Action adventure
• Main character: Link
• Goal: Collect 8 Triforce fragments
• Cartridge: Gold (DKOldies listing)

Where it ranks

The Legend of Zelda is No. 2 in our Best NES Games of All Time verdict.