I’m a big Legend of Zelda fan, so speaking about the worst-selling Zelda games is translated in my mind to “Zelda games that didn’t sell as well as the others.” Each game has memorable music and even memorable boss fights! But the truth is, while every Legend of Zelda game brings a certain spark and unique mechanics, some of them struggle to perform well. Unfortunately, the tag of being a video game flop is something that will always haunt a game, no matter the charm. Don’t worry; we won’t include the Zelda CD-i games. Otherwise, it would make a very easy and painful article to write. Here are the five worst Legend of Zelda flops of all time, so prepare yourself!
The Worst-Selling Legend of Zelda Games of All Time
5. Four Swords Adventures
While we all know that the Legend of Zelda franchise has multiple Links in its timeline, a 4 Link multiplayer adventure sounded enticing and confusing. So when The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures launched on GameCube, the game didn’t perform quite as expected. In fact, it became the worst-selling Zelda game of all time, just with over 800 thousand copies sold. Well, that’s disappointing! Especially because there are some fans of this multiplayer take on the classic Zelda formula. Fans during the time really wanted a main series game to be released, and what they got really didn’t suit their need. And it shows.
4. Minish Cap
You would not be surprised to know that a handheld game is the second worst-selling Zelda game of all time. However, it would be surprising to know that the Minish Cap was released in the same year as Four Swords Adventures (2004). That certainly wasn’t a good year for the Zelda franchise, at least in sales. Furthermore, not being able to especially publicize both games properly could be a good explanation for their Zelda flop status. Minish Cap only sold 1.76 million copies worldwide. It was a well-received entry to the franchise, but its length (or lack thereof) and certain mechanics were criticized. However, it still remains a classic for the franchise.
3. Spirit Tracks
Love it or hate it, the Phantom Hourglass style was unique. When it sold almost 5 million copies worldwide, of course, Nintendo wanted to capitalize on it. That is why they immediately started working on The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks. It ultimately sold 2.96 million copies worldwide. The main criticism was that it didn’t distance itself enough from what we already experienced with its predecessor, Phantom Hourglass. If you think this list comprises only multiplayer experiments and handheld releases, then check out the next entry in our list.
2. Skyward Sword
Skyward Sword surely is a point of debate. While it includes some incredible lore and arguably some of the best-designed and unique dungeons of the series, this game suffered from a fatal flaw. Yes, I’m talking about the motion controls. Not only did you didn’t have a non-motion option, but you also need to purchase the Wii Motion Plus adapter in order to play the game. Otherwise, you were out of luck, and the motion control frenzy was already beginning to fall apart. The Nintendo Switch edition really did a great job giving the players multiple control styles, but a main 3D Zelda title only selling 3.67 million copies is a mark that doesn’t disappear. And therefore, here it is, one of the worst-selling Zelda games of all time.
1. Link’s Awakening (Game Boy)
The “it was all a dream” installment of the franchise. And while Link’s Awakening didn’t perform as well during its time compared to other titles (3.83 million copies sold), its status as one of the best entries in the franchise remains untouched. And yes, we are aware that the Switch remake sold over 6 million copies. However, they are two totally different experiences. Just look at the graphics for both versions, and you will understand. Failing to meet commercial expectations does not translate to a bad game necessarily. And while, compared to other games, this may be a Legend of Zelda flop, the fact is that it does not matter much.
Related:
Incredible Zelda BOTW Orchestral Performance Available to Download
And that’s the end of this list. The truth is, we all love these games! Yes, they didn’t perform as well as, say, Breath of the Wild (19 million copies sold), but they occupy a very special place in our hearts. Go ahead and enjoy them will you can, you will certainly get something out of each of these titles.
The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will be available on Nintendo Switch on May 12, 2023.
