Classic Link's Personality
All incarnations of Link, including his cartoon counterpart, possess the Spirit of the Hero. Thus, courage is the defining characteristic of Link. In many Legend of Zelda games, Link wields the Triforce of Courage, a sacred object that protects him and endows him with power. In any case, Link seldom shows fear and always rises up to fulfill his destiny with bravery and determination.
Classic Link, while blessed with courage in spades, is admittedly lacking in depth and strength of character. He often lacks his own personal motivations, embarking on quests simply because he is fated to. There are a few exceptions, of course, but classic Link usually lacks that personal drive. This really doesn't help flush him out as a character at all.
Classic Link, while blessed with courage in spades, is admittedly lacking in depth and strength of character. He often lacks his own personal motivations, embarking on quests simply because he is fated to. There are a few exceptions, of course, but classic Link usually lacks that personal drive. This really doesn't help flush him out as a character at all.
In addition, classic Link never speaks a word in his games. It's not that he's mute (because he's not), it's because his creators have intentionally designed him this way. Classic Link is just that, a link between the player and the character. Even his name is designated by the player. The audience never hears classic Link speak because his character is designed to immerse the player in the game. Classic Link becomes a sort of avatar for the player to project their feelings, experiences, and identities onto. That remains unspoiled by terrible voice acting and second-rate attempts at personality.
Admittedly, Nintendo is doing more and more to bring emotion to the otherwise stoic Link of tradition. Newer installments to the Legend of Zelda series feature more facial expressions than before, though nothing to compare with Toon Link's. Don't believe me? Check out these screenshots below from Ocarina of Time and its 3D remake.
Admittedly, Nintendo is doing more and more to bring emotion to the otherwise stoic Link of tradition. Newer installments to the Legend of Zelda series feature more facial expressions than before, though nothing to compare with Toon Link's. Don't believe me? Check out these screenshots below from Ocarina of Time and its 3D remake.
One quirky consistency of classic Link's personality does arise. He sure enjoys his beauty sleep. In several games, classic Link is shown sleeping in, whether it's his tiny room in a dorm or his cozy tree house. And more often than not, he gets a rude awakening.