In the ''Zelda'' universe, three common shields exist: the '''Wooden''', the '''Impregnable''', and the '''Mirror''' shields - from which the games, at their own discretion, add different variations and unique shields to the mix that operate differently as required by the individual games themselves. Games like {{ALTTP}} and {{OOT}} contain great examples of all three varieties.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=The shield has three potential levels of power. Your first shield can only fend off the enemy's arrows, spears and rocks. If you improve your shield or find a better one, you can defend yourself against different attacks.|game=A Link to the Past|page=23}}</ref>
In the ''Zelda'' universe, three common shields exist: the '''Wooden''', the '''Impregnable''', and the '''Mirror''' shields - from which the games, at their own discretion, add different variations and unique shields to the mix that operate differently as required by the individual games themselves. \{{ALTTP}} and {{OOT}} both contain examples of all three varieties.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=The shield has three potential levels of power. Your first shield can only fend off the enemy's arrows, spears and rocks. If you improve your shield or find a better one, you can defend yourself against different attacks.|game=A Link to the Past|page=23}}</ref>
===Wooden Shields===
===Wooden Shields===
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===Mirror Shields===
===Mirror Shields===
:''Related Article: [[Mirror Shield]]'' [[File:Mirror Shield.png|right|50px|The Mirror Shield of {{TWW}}]]
:''Main Article: [[Mirror Shield]]'' [[File:Mirror Shield.png|right|50px|The Mirror Shield of {{TWW}}]]
[[File:Ocarina Of Time - Mirror Shield.png|right|50px|Mirror shield of {{OOT}}]]
[[File:Ocarina Of Time - Mirror Shield.png|right|50px|Mirror shield of {{OOT}}]]
Always having a smooth, reflective face, the '''Mirror Shield''' is usually the last, and sometimes even optional, shield variation Link can receive on his quest; this shield is an impregnable shield with one added function: the ability reflect light. Its plot usability is determined by game; for example, {{OOT}} incorporates a mirror shield that is required to beat the [[Spirit Temple]], while {{TMC}} presents the shield as a reward for completing a lengthy sidequest unrelated to the plot. And in every case, the mirror shield is used most exclusively to complete the dungeon it was found in, and rarely throughout the rest of the game, save certain sidequests and other small situations.
Always having a smooth, reflective face, the '''Mirror Shield''' is usually the last, and sometimes even optional, shield variation Link can receive on his quest; this shield is an impregnable shield with one added function: the ability reflect light. Its plot usability is determined by game; for example, {{OOT}} incorporates a mirror shield that is required to beat the [[Spirit Temple]], while {{TMC}} presents the shield as a reward for completing a lengthy side-quest unrelated to the plot. The mirror shield is used almost exclusively to complete the dungeon it was found in, and rarely throughout the rest of the game, save certain side-quests and other small situations.
==Function==
==Function==
The way the shield is used often changes. Link is either limited to using his shield automatically, or he may use it manually, depending on the game, but he often cannot use it while using another item.
In all cases, Link has always used the shield to defend himself, and he can never be use his shield while attacking. Sometimes, the shield is necessary to defeat specific enemies. However, the way the shield is utilized varies; depending on the game, Link is limited to defending either automatically or manually.
===Automatic===
===Automatic===
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'', Link automatically carries his shield, but it can only use to block projectile attacks as long he faces the direction they come from and isn't using an item or his sword.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=When Link is not attacking, he can use his shield that is always by his side to defend from enemy attacks. Don't forget! There are some enemy attacks Link can't defend against.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=20}}</ref> In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', as in the original ''The Legend of Zelda'', Link can only use the shield to block projectile strikes. However, he doesn't only need to use it in the direction he's facing. As he charges his sword for a [[Spin Attack]], Link can hold his shield on his right side, a technique that can be used to solve certain puzzles.
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]'', Link automatically carries his shield, but it can only block projectile attacks as long he faces the direction they come.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=When Link is not attacking, he can use his shield that is always by his side to defend from enemy attacks. Don't forget! There are some enemy attacks Link can't defend against.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=20}}</ref> Once again, in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]'', the shield exclusively deflects ranged attacks. However, he doesn't only need to use it in the direction he's facing. As he charges his sword for a [[Spin Attack]], Link can hold his shield on his right side (except when looking east, in which case he holds it on his left side), leaving that side guarded but his front open.
Link, in ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]'', may use his shield against not only ranged attacks, but direct ones as well, which is crucial during combat with [[Iron Knuckle]]s and [[Stalfos]]. The shield can't defend against attacks from chain hammers, axes, clubs, and fireballs.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Dodge objects which you can't fend off with a shield...|game=The Adventure of Link|page=31}}</ref> Again, the shield isn't effective while Link is attacking. The shields of {{FS}} and {{FSA}} can also deflect both rang are needed to fight certain enemies.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=When you're not using your sword or any other item, you can use your shield to fend off direct blows. Be careful, though! There are some attacks your shield can't defend against.|game=Four Swords Adventures|page=28}}</ref> Link uses his shield automatically in {{PH}}. It can protect against ranged and close-ranged attacks, as long as Link is not attacking
Link, in ''[[Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]'', may use his shield against not only ranged attacks, but direct ones as well, which is crucial during combat with [[Iron Knuckle]]s and [[Stalfos]]. However, this shield cannot defend against strikes from chain hammers, axes, clubs, and fireballs.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Dodge objects which you can't fend off with a shield...|game=The Adventure of Link|page=31}}</ref> The [[Spells of The Adventure of Link#Reflect Spell|Reflect Spell], one of the many spells Link can use in ''The Adventure of Link'', increases the defensive powers of the shield, allowing it to bounce back projectiles. The shields of {{FS}} and {{FSA}} can also deflect both ranged and direct attacks, but as before, they are vulnerable to certain attacks.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=When you're not using your sword or any other item, you can use your shield to fend off direct blows. Be careful, though! There are some attacks your shield can't defend against.|game=Four Swords Adventures|page=28}}</ref> In {{PH}} and {{ST}}, Link's can protect against ranged and close-ranged attacks. Only in ''Phantom Hourglass'', however, can Link use the power of [[Spirit Gems#Wisdom Gems|Wisdom Gems]] to augment the defensive powers of his shield.
===Manual===
===Manual===
The shield in {{LA}} is used as any other item in the game; by assigning it a button command. Because of this, for the first time, Link may use the shield at any time desired.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=You can defend yourself against enemy arrows or stones using the shield. Note that you must press the Button to bring your shield up into a ready position. This will repel most enemy attacks.|game=Link's Awakening|page=14}}</ref> The shield of {{OOA}} and {{OOS}} are used the same as in {{LA}}. As always, stronger shields can block stronger attacks.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Use the shield to defend against enemy attacks. Some enemies can't be defeated unless you use a shield. Once you find a stronger shield, you'll be able to defend against attacks your regular shield couldn't.|game=Oracle of Ages|page=28}}</ref> In {{TMC}}, the shield is used similarly to the way it's used in {{LA}}. It can block most attacks and bounce some attacks back at enemies.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=[The shield] Blocks (and sometimes reflect) enemy attacks. Some enemies can't be defeated without a shield, but it's also just a good idea to know when to defend yourself.|game=The Minish Cap|page=18}}</ref> It comes in handy when Link is dueling against [[Darknut]]s.
The shield in {{LA}} is used as any other item in the game; by assigning it a button command. Because of this, for the first time, Link may utilize the shield whenever desired.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=You can defend yourself against enemy arrows or stones using the shield. Note that you must press the Button to bring your shield up into a ready position. This will repel most enemy attacks.|game=Link's Awakening|page=14}}</ref> This function is reused in {{OOA}} and {{OOS}}. The systems reappear in {{TMC}}, in which the shield can bounce some attacks back at enemies.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=[The shield] Blocks (and sometimes reflect) enemy attacks. Some enemies can't be defeated without a shield, but it's also just a good idea to know when to defend yourself.|game=The Minish Cap|page=18}}</ref>
''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'' greatly changed the way the shield is used. All shields must be equipped before using. Link could use the shield in two ways. He could hold it while remaining stationary, tilting it in whatever direction he faces. When targeting, Link could focus on his enemy while moving freely and defending with his shield at the same time. Each shield in ''Ocarina of Time'' has unique qualities.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Press the R Button to raise your shield. When it is raised, move it with the Control Stick.|game=Ocarina of Time|page=20}}</ref> The shield mechanics of {{MM}} are the same as those in {{OOT}}, except shields are automatically equipped.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Normally, Link will crouch as he raises his shield, but he can also with with his shield raised when Z-Targeting is activated. You can also change the direction Link guards against by tilting the Control Stick while he is crouched behind his shield.|game=Majora's Mask|page=23}}</ref> The shield's function closely matches that of {{OOT}} and {{MM}}.
''[[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|Ocarina of Time]]'' greatly changed the way the shield functions. All shields must be equipped before using. Link can use the shield in two ways. He can hold it while remaining stationary, tilting it in whatever direction he faces. Contrary, when targeting, Link can focus on his enemy while moving freely and defending with his shield at the same time. The shield mechanics of {{MM}} and {{TWW}}are the same as those in {{OOT}}, except shields are equipped (not used) automatically.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Normally, Link will crouch as he raises his shield, but he can also move with his shield raised when Z-Targeting is activated. You can also change the direction Link guards against by tilting the Control Stick while he is crouching behind his shield.|game=Majora's Mask|page=23}}</ref>
{{TP}} takes the shield mechanics of the previous 3D titles and expands on them. Now, when targeting an enemy, Link automatically lifts his shield in defense.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=While holding down L, you will lock on to the enemy and defend simultaneously.|game=Twilight Princess|page=18}}</ref> In addition, he can learn the [[Shield Attack]], which can open the defenses of enemies, stun them, and deflect certain projectiles.
{{TP}} takes the shield mechanics of the previous 3D titles and expands on them. Now when targeting an enemy, Link automatically lifts his shield in defense.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=While holding down L, you will lock on to the enemy and defend simultaneously.|game=Twilight Princess|page=18}}</ref> In addition, after he learns the [[Shield Attack]], he can use it to open the defenses of enemies, stun them, and deflect certain projectiles.
==Specific Appearances==
===''The Legend of Zelda''===
[[File:MagicalShield.png|left]]
*'''Shield''' - Link begins his journey with the shield. It can defend against [[Octorok]] rocks and [[Moblin]] spears.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Link has this from the start of his adventures. Use it to protect him from the rocks and spears that the enemy throws.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=20}}</ref>
*'''Magical Shield''' - The [[Magical Shield]] is larger and can protect against all projectiles, including [[River Zora]] fireballs and [[Wizzrobe]] spells. It can be purchased at most shops of the [[Hyrule]] overworld with prices varying from 90 to 130 [[Rupees]].<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=This is bigger than the other shield. Use it to fend off the enemy's spells and rocks, and Zola's balls.|game=The Legend of Zelda|page=20}}</ref>
===''The Adventure of Link''===
[[File:Reflectspell.png|left|50px|Reflect Spell]]
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:ALttPShield.png
|size = 150px
|align = right
|caption = Official shield artwork from {{ALTTP}}
|captionalign = center
}}
Link can later receive the [[Spells of The Adventure of Link#Reflect Spell|Reflect Spell]], a spell that increases the defensive powers of the shield, allowing it to bounce back projectiles. This ability similar to one that comes with the shield in the first three 3D games.
*'''Fighter's Shield''' - The [[Fighter's Shield]] can defend against arrows and rocks. Link originally receives it from his uncle, along with the [[Fighter's Sword]].
*'''Red Shield''' - The [[Red Shield]] is larger than the Fighter's Shield and can defend against fireballs. Link can obtain the it from either tossing into a [[Great Fairy Fountain#A Link to the Past|Great Fairy Fountain]] or buying it from the [[Dark World Shield Shop|Dark World's shield shop]].
*'''Mirror Shield''' - The [[Mirror Shield#A Link to the Past|Mirror Shield]] is the largest shield, and its reflective surface can defend against beams. Link can find the Mirror Shield in the [[Turtle Rock#A Link to the Past|Turtle Rock]] dungeon.
===''Link's Awakening''===
[[File:Link's Awakening - Shield.png|left|70px|Links shield in ''Link's Awakening'']]
*'''Shield''' - Link's first item is simply called a shield. While holding the shield in front of him, Link can defend against melee and projectile attacks, push back enemies, and flip [[Spiked Beetle]]s. Again, Link practically begins his adventure with his shield, which is given to him by [[Tarin]] after waking from bed rest.
*'''Mirror Shield''' - Being the [[Mirror Shield#Link's Awakening|Mirror Shield]]'s second appearance, it functions similarly to the ''A Link to the Past'' version, as it can deflect beams. It is found in [[Eagle's Tower]].
===''Ocarina of Time''===
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:Deku Shield.png
|size = 100px
|align = right
|caption = Deku Shield of {{OOT}}
|captionalign = center
}}
*'''Deku Shield''' - The [[Deku Shield]] is the first shield Link can acquire. It is lightweight, small, and only usable by [[Young Link]]. Although it can stand up to most attacks, the Deku Shield will burn when exposed to flames.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=This simple shield is made of wood and not very durable.|game=Ocarina of Time|page=28}}</ref> The shield is needed to pass [[Mido]] at the beginning of the journey. It can be purchased from the [[Kokiri Shop]] for 40 Rupees.
*'''Hylian Shield''' - Being durable, heavy, large shield, Young Link can only carry [[Hylian Shield]] on his back and use it when crouching. Link needs to be an adult to tote it around as normal. The Hylian Shield can defend against most attacks.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=Hylian soldiers use this shield. It's very strong.|game=Ocarina of Time|page=28}}</ref> It can be bought from the [[Bazaar]], or it can found in a [[Treasure Chest|chest]] under a tombstone in the [[Graveyard#Ocarina of Time|Graveyard]], unless Link has one in his possession.
*'''Mirror Shield''' - Only available to Link as an adult, the [[Mirror Shield#Ocarina of Time|Mirror Shield]] can still deflect beams of light, either heinous or harmless, but the Link can now use it to direct beams wherever he tilts his shield toward. This technique can be used for puzzle solving.<ref>{{Cite manual|quote=The Mirror Shield deflects special attacks.|game=Ocarina of Time|page=28}}</ref> However, this shield cannot bounce back rocks. The Mirror shield is found in the [[Spirit Temple]].
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:Majora's Mask - Hero Shield.png
|size = 100px
|align = right
|caption = Hero's Shield of {{MM}}
|captionalign = center
}}
===''Majora's Mask''===
*'''Hero's Shield''' - Link begins the game with the [[Hero's Shield]], a small metal shield similar in design to the [[Hylian Shield]]. If Link loses this shield to a [[Like Like]], he can be purchase another at the [[Trading Post]].
*'''Mirror Shield''' - Link finds the [[Mirror Shield]] [[Beneath the Well]], and while it appears different, it functions the same as in {{OOT}}.
===''Oracle of Ages'' and ''Oracle of Seasons''===
[[File:Woodenshield.gif|left|15px|Wooden Shield]]
*'''Wooden Shield''' - The [[Wooden Shield]] is a small shield and can protect against some but not all attacks. Link does not begin with this shield. He must purchase it.
[[File:Shield2.gif|left|15px|Iron Shield]]
*'''Iron Shield''' - The [[Iron Shield]] is a large shield. It can protect against more attacks than the Wooden Shield. In ''Oracle of Ages'', it can be acquired in from a [[Tokay]], and in ''Oracle of Seasons'', it can be received from the [[Subrosian Smithy]] in exchange for [[Ore|Hard Ore]] and a Wooden Shield.
*'''Mirror Shield''' - Even stronger than the Iron Shield, the Mirror Shield can defend Link from the vast majority of attacks. It can only be obtained through a [[Password-Linked]] adventure.
===''Four Swords''===
{{sectstub}}
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:Mirror Shield.png
|size = 100px
|align = right
|caption = Mirror Shield of {{TWW}}
|captionalign = center
}}
===''The Wind Waker''===
*'''Hero's Shield''' - In {{TWW}}, Link receives the [[Hero's Shield]] from his grandmother before embarking on his journey. It is essential for clearing the [[Forsaken Fortress]] the first time. This shield was rumored to have once been used by the [[Link|Hero of Time]] himself,<ref>{{cite|You got the Hero's Shield! This is the legendary shield said to have been used by the hero himself!|N/A|The Wind Waker}}</ref> and was passed down through Link's family as an heirloom.<ref>{{cite|Hanging the family shield on the wall as decoration is another tradition that has been carried down from those days.|Link's Grandmother|The Wind Waker}}</ref>
*'''Mirror Shield''' - Late in his journey, Link acquires the [[Mirror Shield#The Wind Waker|Mirror Shield]], which works like in does in previous 3D titles. It is found in the [[Earth Temple]].
===''Four Swords Adventures''===
{{sectstub}}
===''The Minish Cap''===
[[File:SmallShield TMC.gif|left|Small Shield]]
*'''Small Shield''' - The [[Small Shield]] can block most attacks. [[Princess Zelda]] wins it as a prize during the [[List of Celebrations|Picori Festival]] and gives it to Link so he may protect her.
[[File:MirrorShieldTMC.gif|left|Mirror Shield]]
*'''Mirror Shield''' - This version of the Mirror Shield can absorb projectile attacks and fire a laser in the opposing direction. It is received after Link allows [[Biggoron]] to taste his shield for a while.
{{ImageCaption
|image = File:Shield 1.png
|size = 100px
|align = right
|caption = Ordon Shield of {{TP}}
|captionalign = center
}}
===''Twilight Princess''===
*'''Ordon Shield''' - The [[Ordon Shield]], much like the Deku Shield, is wooden and flammable, but it is as large as the Hylian Shield. Link receives the Ordon Shield during his first trip to [[Ordon Village]] as a [[Wolf Link|wolf]].
*'''Wooden Shield''' - Though the [[Wooden Shield]] looks different from the Ordon Shield, it has identical strengths and weakens. It can be purchased from [[Malo Mart]], in [[Kakariko Village]], if the Ordon Shield was to burn.
*'''Hylian Shield''' - The [[Hylian Shield]] is the most superior shield and will not catch fire. The shield can be purchased from Malo Mart as soon as the store opens.
===''Phantom Hourglass''===
Only one shield, the [[Wooden Shield]], can be found within the game, and it must be purchased from a store. Collecting ten [[Spirit Gems#Wisdom Gem|Wisdom Gem]]s allows Link to augment his shield with [[Neri]]'s powers, drastically increasing its defensive abilities. When powered up, it can block a much wider variety of attacks, and any enemies who come in contact with it are thrown back. This defensive power can be doubled with the use of twenty Wisdom Gems.
===''Spirit Tracks''===
[[File:Shield ST.png|left|50px]]
In ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks|Spirit Tracks]]'', Link's Shield takes on a similar shape to the version in ''Phantom Hourglass'', but it is blue, and has a bird-like crest similar to the one featured on the [[Hylian Shield]], as well as a [[Force Gem]] symbol in place of the [[Triforce]] symbol. It can be sold at various shops for 80 [[Rupee]]s. The same Wooden Shield from ''Phantom Hourglass'' reappears as the [[Shield of Antiquity]], given to Link after collecting 10 stamps for [[Niko]]'s [[Stamp Book]].
==Trivia==
*In the majority of Zelda games, shields of all kinds are a favorite of [[Like Like]]s, choosing to steal them from Link along with any special tunic he may be wearing at the time, whenever they swallow him.
==Gallery==
==Gallery==
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File:MagicalShieldArtwork.png|[[Magical Shield]] official artwork, from ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]''
File:MagicalShieldArtwork.png|[[Magical Shield]] official artwork, from ''[[The Legend of Zelda (Game)|The Legend of Zelda]]''
File:Magical Shield.png|Official artwork of the Shield of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]''
File:Magical Shield.png|Official artwork of the Shield of ''[[The Legend of Zelda: The Adventure of Link|The Adventure of Link]]''
File:ALttPShield.png|Official artwork of the shield that appears in {{ALTTP}} and the first three [[Game Boy]] titles. It is also the first to feature a bird design.
File:ALttPShield.png|This shield that appears in the official artwork of {{ALTTP}} and the first three [[Game Boy]] titles. It is also the first to feature a bird design.
File:Fightersshield.png|[[Fighter's Shield]] official artwork
File:Fightersshield.png|[[Fighter's Shield]] official artwork
File:Red Shield.png|[[Red Shield]] official artwork, from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''
File:Red Shield.png|[[Red Shield]] official artwork, from ''[[The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|A Link to the Past]]''
Always accompanying Link's sword, a shield is a defensive item which has appeared in every game of The Legend of Zelda series. The shield is Link's primary protective defense used to deflect objects, guard from attack, and in some instances, reflect light onto other objects. By appearing in every Zelda title to date, the shield is not only a trademark of the series, but completes Link's hero-like appearance, along with any sword he happens to wield at the time. From defending Link to being the favorite snack of Like Likes, the design and function of the shield greatly differs throughout the series.
In the Zelda universe, three common shields exist: the Wooden, the Impregnable, and the Mirror shields - from which the games, at their own discretion, add different variations and unique shields to the mix that operate differently as required by the individual games themselves. \Template:ALTTP and Template:OOT both contain examples of all three varieties.[1]
The Wooden Shield is often the first that Link acquires in his journey, as this type of shield is the closest and most readily available to Link at the time. Though not specifically noted, many of the games such as Template:LOZ and Template:ALTTP incorporate wooden shields; they are noted by their adequate protection from rocks and arrows and weakness against fire, instead of by their rudimentary wooden makeup. In 3D The Legend of Zelda titles, the wooden shield's weakness to fire makes it a relatively risky choice to use under volcanic and high heat conditions because contact with fire will burn the shield, namely the Deku Shield and the Ordon Shield, away completely. In order to accommodate this aversion to fire, wooden shields can be replaced at nearby bazaars for a nominal price.
The Impregnable Shield is the more durable counterpart to the wooden shield, in that it can not only deflect most enemy attacks and projectiles, but it does not fail in the presence of high heat. The Magical Shield of Template:LOZ is the first form of this shield, and the Red Shield from Template:ALTTP and Hero's Shield of Majora's Mask fame are prime examples of the impenetrability of these shields - even large boulders that rain down from the apex of Death Mountain don't leave a scratch on the surface of the Hylian Shield of Template:OOT. Unlike the wooden shield, which often has a minimalistic art design on its facing side, these impregnable shields commonly boast the Hylian Crest and the Triforce at their front. While the majority of these shields are metallic in construct, many in the series do not give any physical description beyond what they protect against.
Always having a smooth, reflective face, the Mirror Shield is usually the last, and sometimes even optional, shield variation Link can receive on his quest; this shield is an impregnable shield with one added function: the ability reflect light. Its plot usability is determined by game; for example, Template:OOT incorporates a mirror shield that is required to beat the Spirit Temple, while The Minish Cap presents the shield as a reward for completing a lengthy side-quest unrelated to the plot. The mirror shield is used almost exclusively to complete the dungeon it was found in, and rarely throughout the rest of the game, save certain side-quests and other small situations.
Function
In all cases, Link has always used the shield to defend himself, and he can never be use his shield while attacking. Sometimes, the shield is necessary to defeat specific enemies. However, the way the shield is utilized varies; depending on the game, Link is limited to defending either automatically or manually.
Automatic
In The Legend of Zelda, Link automatically carries his shield, but it can only block projectile attacks as long he faces the direction they come.[2] Once again, in A Link to the Past, the shield exclusively deflects ranged attacks. However, he doesn't only need to use it in the direction he's facing. As he charges his sword for a Spin Attack, Link can hold his shield on his right side (except when looking east, in which case he holds it on his left side), leaving that side guarded but his front open.
Link, in The Adventure of Link, may use his shield against not only ranged attacks, but direct ones as well, which is crucial during combat with Iron Knuckles and Stalfos. However, this shield cannot defend against strikes from chain hammers, axes, clubs, and fireballs.[3] The [[Spells of The Adventure of Link#Reflect Spell|Reflect Spell], one of the many spells Link can use in The Adventure of Link, increases the defensive powers of the shield, allowing it to bounce back projectiles. The shields of Four Swords and Four Swords Adventures can also deflect both ranged and direct attacks, but as before, they are vulnerable to certain attacks.[4] In Phantom Hourglass and Spirit Tracks, Link's can protect against ranged and close-ranged attacks. Only in Phantom Hourglass, however, can Link use the power of Wisdom Gems to augment the defensive powers of his shield.
Manual
The shield in Link's Awakening is used as any other item in the game; by assigning it a button command. Because of this, for the first time, Link may utilize the shield whenever desired.[5] This function is reused in Template:OOA and Template:OOS. The systems reappear in The Minish Cap, in which the shield can bounce some attacks back at enemies.[6]
Ocarina of Time greatly changed the way the shield functions. All shields must be equipped before using. Link can use the shield in two ways. He can hold it while remaining stationary, tilting it in whatever direction he faces. Contrary, when targeting, Link can focus on his enemy while moving freely and defending with his shield at the same time. The shield mechanics of Majora's Mask and The Wind Wakerare the same as those in Template:OOT, except shields are equipped (not used) automatically.[7]
Twilight Princess takes the shield mechanics of the previous 3D titles and expands on them. Now when targeting an enemy, Link automatically lifts his shield in defense.[8] In addition, after he learns the Shield Attack, he can use it to open the defenses of enemies, stun them, and deflect certain projectiles.
↑"The shield has three potential levels of power. Your first shield can only fend off the enemy's arrows, spears and rocks. If you improve your shield or find a better one, you can defend yourself against different attacks." (A Link to the Past manual, pg. 23)
↑"When Link is not attacking, he can use his shield that is always by his side to defend from enemy attacks. Don't forget! There are some enemy attacks Link can't defend against." (The Legend of Zelda manual, pg. 20)
↑"Dodge objects which you can't fend off with a shield..." (The Adventure of Link manual, pg. 31)
↑"When you're not using your sword or any other item, you can use your shield to fend off direct blows. Be careful, though! There are some attacks your shield can't defend against." (Four Swords Adventures manual, pg. 28)
↑"You can defend yourself against enemy arrows or stones using the shield. Note that you must press the Button to bring your shield up into a ready position. This will repel most enemy attacks." (Link's Awakening manual, pg. 14)
↑"[The shield] Blocks (and sometimes reflect) enemy attacks. Some enemies can't be defeated without a shield, but it's also just a good idea to know when to defend yourself." (The Minish Cap manual, pg. 18)
↑"Normally, Link will crouch as he raises his shield, but he can also move with his shield raised when Z-Targeting is activated. You can also change the direction Link guards against by tilting the Control Stick while he is crouching behind his shield." (Majora's Mask manual, pg. 23)
↑"While holding down L, you will lock on to the enemy and defend simultaneously." (Twilight Princess manual, pg. 18)
