6 iconic ‘Zelda’ monsters recreated in a nightmarish fashion
The Legend of Zelda series is known the world over for its tight gameplay, vibrant worlds and wonderful stories. But it’s almost impossible to be a fan of the video games without noticing the plethora of monsters that Link constantly has to face and slay. Iconic monsters such as Skulltulas and Stalfos Knights are found throughout the series and, let’s be honest, probably gave us nightmares as a child.
But wait, because if you thought they looked scary then, we’ve got some bad news for you. Artist Andres Rios has recreated some of these creatures in the most terrifying and realistic way possible and is ready to have us relive those nightmares all over again, but worse.
1. Skulltula
Arachnophobes, look away now. This gargantuan spider with a skull pattern on its back can be found in many of Link’s adventures, but none as spine-chilling as this rendition. If you weren’t scared of our eight-legged friends before, you probably are now. And honestly, same…
2. Dead Hand
Possibly the creepiest Zelda monster out here, the Dead Hand made its first and only appearance in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and gave every kid in the 90s night terrors. Its decaying body covered in blood and huge, menacing mouth were scary on the Nintendo 64, but Rios’ realistic style really brings back the fear. Not something you’d want to come across on a dark evening.
3. ReDead
Probably tied first for scariest Zelda monster with the Dead Hand, ReDeads are zombie-like creatures who let out a blood-curdling howl frightening enough to freeze you in your tracks, leaving you defenceless as they jump on your back and suck the life out of you. Rios’ long, gangly version is pure nightmare gold, and that face is one not even a mother could love.
4. Bongo Bongo
The boss of the Shadow Temple, Bongo Bongo looks almost like a deformed worm, with two detached hands which it uses to crush its prey. The worst part? This hellspawn can turn invisible. Rios’ version looks a bit like a Demogorgon from Stranger Things but the creature’s exposed bones and peeling flesh really take it to the next level of freaky.
5. Stalfos Knight
Stalfos Knights are fallen warriors, resurrected by dark magic. After enough hits they’ll collapse into a pile of bones—but only for a short while. Unless their remains are blown up with a bomb, they will just keep returning again, and again, and again. Thanks, but no thanks.
6. Big Poe
The Big Poes are malevolent spirits that seek to cause havoc and ill fortune wherever they go. While a bit goofy-looking in Ocarina of Time, Rios’ fully cloaked version with the piercing eyes is sure to strike fear into the hearts of everyone who lays eyes upon it.
