The King of Hyrule in kings of Hyrule in the Zelda series, and they have ranged considerably in personality, notably unlike Princess Zelda herself. The differences seen between the two most recent kings perfectly exemplify just how big these changes can be, and also emphasize the terrible impact that the very existence of Ganon can have on Hyrule.

In some ways, it is easy to identify the titular Princess’ father in any Legend of Zelda game. Although their names do vary, a curious fact which sets them apart from many other staple Zelda figures, the various Kings of Hyrule (and the non-royal Gaepora from Skyward Sword) always boast a white beard and mustache. Even the non-Hylian Rauru in Tears of the Kingdom has long white hair, making it as much a signifier of royalty as the red clothing often worn by these kings. On the other hand, as their differing names imply, their actual characters can differ greatly.

Echoes Of Wisdom's King Is Better Than BOTW's

The New King Of Hyrule Is A Kinder Father

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When it comes to his relationship with Zelda, the King of Hyrule in Echoes of Wisdom is a much better person than King Rhoam. The former, curiously unnamed king dotes on his daughter, and firmly s her in her quest. This contrasts sharply with the far colder Rhoam, who is shown to have placed an enormous amount of pressure on his daughter prior to the Great Calamity. Rhoam places great emphasis on Zelda doing her duty to her kingdom, and he is frustrated and disappointed in her inability to manifest her divine power, something which clearly disheartens the princess.

Zelda & The King's Relationship Could Be Better If Not For Ganon

Fear Of The Calamity Strained Rhoam’s Bond With His Daughter

However, it must be kept in mind that Rhoam’s own attitude is only a consequence of his own fears. With Calamity Ganon predicted to emerge at any time, he is desperate to see his kingdom protected. As a result, if it were not for this particularly impactful version of Ganon inspiring such dread, it is easy to imagine Rhoam and Zelda’s relationship better matching the bond seen in Echoes of Wisdom. This retrospectively heightens the tragedy of BOTW’s backstory, wherein Rhoam is killed before he and Zelda have a chance to reconcile.

It is relatively rare for the King of Hyrule and Princess Zelda to have any prolonged interaction, a trend only broken with Breath of the Wild and subsequent titles. Rhoam is an undoubtedly flawed character, something which makes him a fitting addition to the powerful narrative of Breath of the Wild, but it is sad to see how bad his relationship is with his daughter. Now, however, the latest King of Hyrule offers a striking change by being such a loving father to Zelda in The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, a refreshing change from what was seen previously.