34 years ago today, Nintendo released The Legend of Zelda, and one of gaming’s most beloved, well-respected, and influential franchises was born. For over three decades now (bloody hell), the continuing adventures of Link have provided us with some truly unforgettable moments.

Whether laying down the template for open world games in 1986, perfecting 3D adventure games in 1998, or completely destroying genre expectations in 2017, Zelda titles are often ambitious, inventive, and rarely deliver anything other than excellence.

Happy birthday The Legend of Zelda, we love you!