For years, fans of The Legend of Zelda series have wondered in just what order all the games fit in the major storyline or if there even was one. Nintendo has always insisted there is but has kept it hidden. That is, until now. Maybe.

In the new Zelda art book only released in Japan as of yet, there is a Zelda timeline. Giving that this book is an official Nintendo product, it makes sense to say that this is, in fact, the official Zelda timeline.

Based off a Japanese translation of the book, it seems that the The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the linchpin in the whole timeline. After Ocarina of Time, the story branches off in to three parallel universes based on the outcome of the game.

The main timeline goes:

1. Skyward Sword

2. Minnish Cap

3. Four Swords

4. Ocarina of Time

Split 1: Link defeats Ganon – childhood branch

1. Majora’s Mask

2. Twilight Princess

3. Four Swords Adventures

Split 2: Link defeats Ganon – adult branch

1. The Wind Waker

2. Phantom Hourglass

3. Spirit Tracks

Split 3: Link fails in Ocarina Of Time

1. A Link to the Past

2. Oracles of Seasons and Ages

3. Link’s Awakening

4. The Legend of Zelda

5. Zelda II

Now this may not be the official Zelda timeline everyone has been clamoring for and just an interpretation of some sorts from the company, but, nonetheless is interesting to finally get a clearer picture of where the games fall.