Do we like Link?
A character from The Legend of Zelda (1986–present)
Our score: 9 out of 10. Brave, kind and always shows up when the kingdom needs him, even if he never says a word. We'd follow him anywhere, preferably with a shield and a stockpile of potions.
Link is the hero of Nintendo's long-running Legend of Zelda series. Each game gives him a new incarnation, usually a young Hylian from a quiet corner of the land. He is pulled into an epic quest to protect Hyrule and Princess Zelda from the villain Ganon and other dark forces. The first game came out in Japan in 1986. Its designer, Shigeru Miyamoto, wanted players to explore a big open world and find their own path.
Across the series Link is known for courage, compassion and determination. He holds the Triforce of Courage, and the same traits show up in every version of him. He is a gifted fighter who picks up a bow, a boomerang, a hookshot or an ocarina and uses it straight away. Because he is mostly silent, players can imagine his voice, and his actions show who he is.
We score him high because he never does the heroic thing for glory. He takes on huge dangers, helps villagers with small problems, and stays loyal to the people he loves. He loses a point for the reckless pot-smashing and for being a bit of a blank slate. He is still about as dependable a hero as games have.