Best Boss Themes Legend of Zelda

A Link to the Past: Original Hyrule Castle Theme

A Link to the past brings us the original Hyrule castle theme. I know this isn’t a boss fight but the fact is it builds up to each of the Ganondorf boss fights following this game because it is part of Zelda history. Entering Hyrule Castle signifies approaching the final boss: Ganondorf himself. It builds the anticipation as you eagerly anticipate one of the hardest fights of the Zelda franchise. It also means the end of the game is near, after all you have worked for.

Ocarina of Time: Ganondorf and Ganon

Initially we get to fight Ganondorf, King of Evil. The organ music leading up to this, as well as the Hyrule Castle theme, mean we are about to clash against him in battle. He seems so arrogant like he will win. When we strike him down we escape the tower. Then, the music deepens as we are introduced to Ganon. The fight for Hyrule is on as this theme begins with a dramatic entrance. It seems the goddesses are watching here as we know to focus on Ganon and seal him away.

Spirit Tracks: Malladus/Sacred Duet

Easily one of the best themes in Spirit Tracks.

Wind Waker: Molgera, from the Wind Temple

Out of every Zelda game I have played this is my favorite boss theme. Why? I look forward to it whenever I play Wind Waker. Link enters the boss fight standing on a ledge. Dropping down into the sand pit, anticipation builds with the rumbling of the ground. When Molgera emerges, an upbeat rhythm kicks Link into action.

Wind Waker: Gohdan, from the Tower of the Gods

If I made a Zelda playlist, this ranks up there in boss themes for sure. It is just as unique as the Molgera theme, keeping Link on his toes as he goes through the fight. He dodges, flips, shoots arrows, and makes it through the Tower of the Gods after this fight. The music lives up to it’s significance, as Link reaches a milestone of the game.

Wind Waker: Ganondorf Final Battle

My third theme cited from the Wind Waker, this is my favorite boss theme for Ganondorf. When Link emerges from the tower after surviving phase one of the combat, Ganondorf turns to face him. They engage in dialogue, as Ganondorf reaches out to touch the Triforce at last. Before he can, King Daphnes Nohansen Hyrule himself touches the legendary symbol. His last wish is to flood Hyrule, drowning with it. The theme to the fight that ensues is worthy of a great battle.

Majora’s Mask: Boss Fight

Each boss fight in Majora’s Mask holds a high standard. The most difficult fights in the Zelda series that I have overcome have been in this game. Gyorg of the Water Temple, Twinmold of the Stone Tower Temple, and Majora’s Mask itself are still challenging for me to overcome. While I’m sweating in my attempts, the theme accompanies my efforts.

Twilight Princess: Blizzeta Part Two

Darkness is found in the cozy mountain residence of Yeta and Yeto. On Link's journey to assemble the Mirror of Twilight, fate leads him to their abode. Yeta becomes mesmerized by the mirror shard in her own bedroom. The evil transforms her into Blizzeta, who becomes the final battle for Link at Snowpeak Ruins. As Link dashes around on an icy surface, the second part of the boss fight has a theme complimenting his struggle.

Twilight Princess: Dark Beast Ganon

Exotic is the word that comes to my mind. Even now it easily comes into my head, as a perfect accompaniment to Dark Beast Ganon loping through portals. When Link has to spot the portal where Dark Beast Ganon will be, the tune changes to reflect his thinking process. When the Beast runs around the room it also changes, helping the player to know what is happening.

Skyward Sword: Levias

This song helps me focus in game and out of game. It conveys the meaningful undertone of the plight of the great Leviathan in need. With a touch of sorrow, the pleasant theme creates a good atmosphere for Link to fight Bilocyte.

Conclusion

Music creates atmosphere, leaving the player with memories for years to come. If you would like to read more about the music behind Legend of Zelda and other games, check out my article on Koji Kondo.

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