Welcome, adventurers, to the definitive roster of heroes, villains, and memorable faces you’ll encounter in the groundbreaking NES classic, The Legend of Zelda! Hyrule is a land of mystery and danger, and these are the characters who define its first legendary tale.
Link
The legend begins with you! Step into the green tunic of Link, a courageous young lad destined for greatness. When the malevolent Ganon threatens Hyrule, it’s Link who answers the desperate call. You’ll guide this budding hero across a sprawling overworld, delve into perilous underground labyrinths, and gather an arsenal of iconic weapons and tools. Your ultimate mission: retrieve the scattered pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom, vanquish Ganon, and rescue the princess! Every enemy felled and secret uncovered brings you closer to fulfilling your heroic destiny.
Princess Zelda
The wise and benevolent Princess of Hyrule, Zelda, finds herself in Ganon’s vile clutches early in this epic. Foreseeing Ganon’s treachery, she bravely split the Triforce of Wisdom into eight pieces and had them hidden throughout the land before her capture. While her direct presence is limited as Ganon’s prisoner, her spirit and the hope of her rescue fuel Link’s arduous quest. Her safety is paramount to restoring peace to Hyrule.
Impa
Princess Zelda’s loyal nursemaid, Impa, is the catalyst for Link’s adventure. Though not a warrior herself in this first outing, her role is crucial. As described in the game’s lore, after Ganon’s forces attacked Hyrule and seized the Triforce of Power, a gravely concerned Impa sought out a hero with the courage to face the impending darkness. She finds that hero in Link, entrusting him with the monumental task of finding the Triforce fragments and saving Princess Zelda and all of Hyrule.
Old Man
Seek out wisdom in the most unexpected places! Scattered throughout Hyrule’s caves and even deep within its treacherous dungeons, you’ll encounter the mysterious Old Man. Often cryptic but always helpful, this robed figure is your primary source for essential gear. He’ll offer you your very first Sword (famously warning, “IT’S DANGEROUS TO GO ALONE! TAKE THIS.”), and later, provide crucial upgrades like the White Sword and Magical Sword, as well as increased Bomb capacity. Sometimes he offers vital hints, and in one key location, he’ll entrust you with a Letter essential for acquiring potent potions. While rumors of his magical abilities circulate, his tangible aid is what truly empowers Link. Be warned, though – accidentally damage a door to his dwelling, and he’ll demand a fee for the “DOOR REPAIR CHARGE”!
Old Woman
A master of mystical brews, the Old Woman can be found in hidden potion shops across Hyrule. However, she’s a discerning proprietor. Initially, she won’t offer her wares. Only by presenting the Letter obtained from the Old Man will you gain her trust. Once you do, she becomes an invaluable ally, selling the life-restoring Water of Life (both blue and red varieties). These elixirs can mean the difference between victory and defeat in Hyrule’s darkest corners. In some hideouts, she might also offer cryptic advice for a price.
Shopkeeper
“BUY SOMETHIN’ WILL YA!” These enterprising merchants have set up shops in various nooks and crannies of Hyrule, sometimes hidden behind bombable walls or burnable bushes. Their stock is vital for any adventurer, offering essential items like Bombs, Arrows, Candles (Blue and Red), Keys, and the life-saving Shield. Prices can vary, so seasoned explorers might find better deals in more remote locations. Keep your Rupees ready; you’ll be a frequent customer!