If you want the closest next step after Ocarina of Time, play Majora’s Mask. If you’d rather move to a different presentation in classic-era Zelda, try The Wind Waker. For a newer entry point on current Nintendo hardware, start with Breath of the Wild, then play its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom.
Which Zelda game is most like Ocarina of Time?
Majora’s Mask: the closest follow-up
Choose Majora’s Mask if you want to stay closest to Ocarina of Time in the series’ timeline and classic-era context. Nintendo’s official series overview shows that the timeline branches after Ocarina of Time into Child and Adult paths, and links to Majora’s Mask as a post-Ocarina game. That makes it the clearest first recommendation for someone looking for a nearby follow-up, without requiring a jump to a much later era. Nintendo’s Zelda series overview
The Wind Waker: a different presentation
Pick The Wind Waker if you want another classic-series option but are open to a different presentation. It is also a post-Ocarina recommendation within a series whose timeline branches after that game. Nintendo’s overview supports that broad connection; it does not, by itself, establish a detailed account of the game’s plot continuity, so treat it as a contrasting route rather than a more direct follow-up than Majora’s Mask. Nintendo’s Zelda series overview
Which Zelda game should you play for a modern change of pace?
Breath of the Wild: a later-era entry point
Choose Breath of the Wild if you’re less concerned with following on from Ocarina of Time and want to move to a later-era Zelda game. Nintendo lists it in editions for Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2. Its place here is as a modern change of pace, not as the closest narrative continuation of Ocarina. Check Nintendo’s catalog for your market and console before buying, since edition and availability can vary. Nintendo’s Zelda game catalog Nintendo’s 40th anniversary announcement
#1 Best Overall
- Discover Hyrule as never before: by making your own path, choices, and consequences
- Ingenuity is the key to survival: find multiple solutions to tons of dynamic puzzles
- Surprises hide around every corner: scavenge weapons, armor, plants, animals, and more
- Live off the land: find weapons and armor, cook food, and brew elixirs
- Utilize special technology: the in-game Sheikah Slate controls, objects and enemies in fun ways
Tears of the Kingdom: play it after Breath of the Wild
Choose Tears of the Kingdom after Breath of the Wild, not instead of it, if you want to follow the newer games in order. Nintendo explicitly describes Tears of the Kingdom as a sequel to Breath of the Wild, and its UK game page describes an adventure across Hyrule’s land and skies. Nintendo also recommends catching up on the earlier game’s story. The UK page lists the original release date as 12 May 2023; availability and editions may differ by market. Nintendo UK’s Tears of the Kingdom page
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to choose and access the games
| If you want… | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
| The closest post-Ocarina follow-up | Majora’s Mask | It is linked from Nintendo’s official post-Ocarina timeline overview. |
| A contrasting classic-era option | The Wind Waker | It is another post-Ocarina recommendation, though the overview does not establish detailed plot continuity. |
| A later-era starting point | Breath of the Wild | Nintendo lists Switch and Switch 2 editions. |
| The next game after Breath of the Wild | Tears of the Kingdom | Nintendo identifies it as a sequel to Breath of the Wild. |
For classic games, Nintendo says Zelda titles can be accessed through its Nintendo Classics libraries with a paid Nintendo Switch Online membership. The available games depend on the regional catalog, so check the live library for your country and console. Nintendo’s Zelda game catalog Nintendo’s 40th anniversary announcement
Quick Recap
Rank #3
- Enhanced resolution, framerates, and load times optimized for Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore a massive open-air version of Hyrule with complete freedom.
- Solve physics-based puzzles, survive dynamic weather, and uncover hidden secrets.
- Customize your adventure with weapons, gear, and food you craft yourself.
- Use the ZELDA NOTES app for bonuses, item sharing, and social features.
Rank #2
- Step into a world of adventure—now enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 system!
- Use your ingenuity to survive and thrive in Hyrule
- Support your journey with ZELDA NOTES on the Nintendo Switch app
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