From Middle-earth to Hyrule, here are the 14 most imaginative fantasy worlds
By John Fallon
5. Hyrule, from The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda takes place predominantly in a medieval, Western Europe-inspired fantasy world called Hyrule, which has developed a deep history and varied geography over the many games in the series. Each Legend of Zelda game tells an important part of the story of Hyrule, following a sword-wielding hero named Link (and a princess named Zelda, and a villain named Gannondorf) as they’re reborn again and again throughout time.
Although the official timeline may be a bit confusing, the many variations of Hyrule that players have explored are mesmerizing. There’s always a new corner to explore. Twilight Princess introduced us to the eerie Twilight Realm, A Link to the Past turned over the bleak Dark World, and The Wind Waker had us exploring what remained of Hyrule after it was sunk deep beneath the sea.
Following the lead of its high fantasy forebears, the land is full of humanoid races, dark minions, and independent peoples. There’s the rock-smashing Gorons, the deep-diving Zoras, and the desert-dwelling Gerudo to help you on your quests.
As in Randland, history tends to repeat itself in The Legend of Zelda. No matter which game you’re playing, Zelda is in trouble, the Master Sword is waiting, and Ganon is always up to something awful.