The Legend of Zelda

The original Legend of Zelda follows a basic plotline that is expanded upon in its numerous sequels. In the kingdom of Hyrule, the evil Ganon kidnaps the eponymous Princess Zelda and steals the Triforce of Power, an artifact that grants its possessor immense strength. In order to protect the Triforce of Wisdom from his clutches, Princess Zelda splits it into eight pieces and manages to conceal them throughout Hyrule before she is kidnapped. Impa, her nursemaid, is tasked with the job of finding someone brave enough to collect all the pieces and gain enough power to defeat Ganon. Link, the game's hero, is this very person, and his quest takes him through eight different dungeons before he is finally able to confront Ganon and rescue Zelda.

The game can be saved virtually anytime either through the Item Screen or via dying. New players should note, however, that saving doesn't keep one's place if they're partway through a dungeon.

The Legend of Zelda was always meant to be family friendly; however, players new to the game might find it challenging as it doesn't offer the features most players are used to such as autosaving or a tip system.

• What do you think of the role Princess Zelda plays in the game? Why do you think it's called The Legend of Zelda?
• Did you learn anything about exploration from the game? Were there ever places you visited that you weren't prepared for at the time?