We cap off Royalty Month with possibly the best kingdom to grace video game screens: Hyrule.
The Legend of Zelda’s Hyrule has had its ups and downs throughout its many incarnations. For example, all its inhabitants have to contend with the threat of Ganon every few centuries or so. However, Ganon’s chaos and destruction are never enough to truly ruin the peoples of Hyrule. From the Zora to the Rito, the Goron to the Gerudo, all Hyrule origins bring something compelling and fascinating to the table.
When it comes to rulers, you have a fantastic array of options. Prince Sidon—the best fish husbando—is a charismatic delight. Princess Midna is a mysterious and mystical Twili leader. The Great Deku tree is wise and altruistic. Other than outright villains (and perhaps the on-and-off internet argument about Zelda’s father being somewhat neglectful), every regional figurehead makes earnest efforts to protect their rich cultures and create fulfilling villages/societies for their peoples.
All Hyrulian regions are on generally friendly terms with one another, too, so you can travel and experience everything each culture has to offer. You can settle down in the Great Hyrule Forest and have a peaceful life. Or you can go chasing rupees like Tingle. Whatever floats your talking sailboat. Living in Hyrule during times of peace would be a dream.
In times when Ganon invades, though, you might want to make yourself scarce. Hyrule’s biggest flaw is it does have an inevitable doomsday event every so often, so it might be good to have an escape plan if your village suddenly gets overrun with gloom or shadow monsters.
Otherwise, enjoy Hyrule to its fullest. Wander the city under Princess Zelda’s warm watchful eye, enjoy the long history and lore around the legendary hero, and savor some Honey Crepes. You’ve landed yourself in a kingdom worth the hype.
