The Shields of Zelda

Ameer | June 10, 2007 | Pictures | Nintendo 64 Wii

Link, one of the long-standing Nintendo staples of the Legend of Zelda series, has had many shield redesigns over his successful reign as one of the longest and best game series of all time. Shown here are many of Link's shield redesigns, in their full glory, for you to compare and discuss.

If you paid close attention to yesterday's Phantom Hourglass commercials, you might've spotted the lobster design (or is it a crayfish?) on Link's shield. What do you think of the new look? Wind Waker fans should recognize the crustacean shape, as it originally showed up on our hero's pajamas in the GameCube game.

Link's shield has been as much a staple of the Zelda series as the adventurer's green cap, deflecting octorok attacks and pushing away charging enemies. Over the past two decades, the defensive device's design has evolved much from its original cross emblem to incorporate Triforces, various winged figures, and decorative accents.

We've collected over a dozen of the different layouts that we spotted at The Hylia, leaving out mirror shields and other deviations (e.g. Ordon shield), and have lined them up for you to compare and constrast after the post break. Enjoy!

News Story attached to:

5 comments | go to source (www.dsfanboy.com) | Add to favorites!

favourite this article |

send to friend

231	Miyamoto interviewed about new Zelda (19) June 4, 2009
177	Will the new Zelda be in a first person perspective? (24) May 18, 2009
67	Making the Next Legend of Zelda Truly Memorable (3) June 29, 2009
159	See concept art for next Legend of Zelda (19) June 5, 2009
54	A Look back at The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons (1) May 27, 2009

Comments

0 thumbs!
Dragon | June 10, 2007

The Ocarina of Time shield was my favorite. I think it's the most unique.

But yes, the shield has gone through quite some changes. The original was very simple, yet the the new ones are somewhat intricate.
0 thumbs!
Rinkydink | June 10, 2007

Yeah there have been many shield changes through the ages. My favourite ones have to be the Ocarina of Time shield and the Wind Waker mirror shield. The new shield doesn't look too bad though.
0 thumbs!
black doom | June 10, 2007

Why can't I help thinking about a cake based on the Ocarina of Time Hylian Shield.

It would have seven layers:
Lemon and honey layer (forest)
Fudge layer (fire)
Caramel and jam layer (water)
Cream and butter layer (spirit)
Chocolate layer (shadow)
Golden syrup layer (light)
Vanilla layer (time)
- 0 thumbs!
  Wolfwood | June 11, 2007
  
  If it was a Dairy Queen frozen cake, it would have tons of other extra chemicals as "ingredients". We can take these as the heart pieces and gold skulltullas.
0 thumbs!
Crystal Creation | June 11, 2007

My favorite Shield has to be the Majoras Mask Series.

I am not really keen on the new designs for the new Zelda Games. I still prefer the good ol' classic shield designs. Good times...