Legendary Items of the Console Wars: Which Game Has the Best Loot?

30 December 2025

If you're a gamer, you’ve probably had that moment—a triumphant pause when you obtain an in-game item so incredible, so legendary, you feel like you could conquer the world (or at least the next boss battle). Some games do loot better than others, and when it comes to the legendary items of the console wars, the debate gets fiery. Which game’s treasures reign supreme? Let’s get into it and see which titles truly deliver loot worth writing home about.

What Makes Loot Legendary?

Before we dive into the highlights, let’s answer the obvious question: What makes loot legendary? Is it the stats, the looks, or the story tied to it? Honestly, it’s a mix of all three. A legendary item should feel like a rare gem, something that not every player can snag on their first try. Ideally, it has an epic backstory, killer abilities, and maybe even a unique look that screams, “I’m not like the others.”

Think about it: Would you remember the Master Sword from The Legend of Zelda if it were just another generic blade? Nope. A legendary item is memorable, both for its in-game impact and the emotional attachment it creates. Now, let’s break down some of the standout games and the loot that keeps us coming back for more.

1. The Legend of Zelda Series – The Master Sword

It’s impossible to talk about legendary loot without mentioning the Master Sword. This iconic blade has been the centerpiece of The Legend of Zelda series since the early days. What makes it so special? For starters, it’s not just handed to you. Whether you’re pulling it from the Temple of Time in Ocarina of Time or charging it with sacred energy in Skyward Sword, acquiring the Master Sword always feels like an achievement.

Its charm doesn’t end with the challenge, though. The Master Sword is a symbol of hope, heroism, and history within the Zelda franchise. Plus, let’s be real—who doesn’t feel unstoppable when wielding “The Blade of Evil’s Bane”?

2. World of Warcraft – Thunderfury, Blessed Blade of the Windseeker

If you played World of Warcraft back in its vanilla days, hearing the words “Thunderfury, Blessed Blade of the Windseeker” probably sends a shiver down your spine. This legendary sword wasn’t just a weapon; it was a status symbol. Crafting it required rare drops from raid bosses, a ton of grinding, and an unshakeable team of loyal guildmates (good luck getting it solo).

But the payout? Oh, it was glorious. Thunderfury wasn’t just strong—it looked amazing, like something the gods themselves would wield. With its electric blue glow and lightning-infused strikes, this weapon turned heads and made you the envy of everyone in Azeroth.

3. Destiny 2 – Gjallarhorn

In Bungie’s Destiny 2, there’s one word that has earned near-mythical status: Gjallarhorn. When this rocket launcher debuted in the first Destiny, it became the weapon everyone wanted. Why? Because it wasn’t just powerful; it was absurdly, ridiculously overpowered. Its tracking rockets and Wolfpack Rounds basically made every raid or boss fight a joke.

Gjallarhorn wasn’t just about numbers, though. Its design, with intricate wolf motifs and a polished gold finish, added to its legendary vibe. And let’s not ignore the fact that when Bungie “nerfed” it for being too good, players were straight-up upset. That’s how you know an item is legendary—when its absence leaves a Gjallarhorn-shaped hole in your heart.

4. Skyrim – Daedric Artifacts

What’s better than one legendary item? An entire arsenal of them. In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, players can get their hands on Daedric Artifacts—powerful weapons and items blessed (or cursed) by the Daedric Princes. From Mehrunes' Razor, a sleek dagger with a small chance to instantly kill foes, to Azura’s Star, a reusable soul gem, these items are not only useful but also have layers of lore behind them.

Each artifact feels like it was pulled straight out of a fantasy epic. Want an Ebony Mail that poisons enemies on touch? Done. How about a skeleton key that never breaks? You got it. The variety, the stories, and the power of these items make them an absolute treasure trove.

5. Borderlands Series – The Lootsplosion

No list about loot would be complete without Borderlands. This franchise turned looting into its own art form. The term “lootsplosion” (when a vanquished enemy explodes into a cascade of guns, shields, and other goodies) feels like the essence of Borderlands.

Out of the countless weapons in the game, the Bee Shield from Borderlands 2 is a standout. This unique shield boosts your damage to absurd degrees, making you feel like an unstoppable force of nature. And let’s not forget the randomly generated guns—seriously, where else can you get a sniper rifle that shoots lightning or a rocket launcher disguised as a teddy bear?

6. Dark Souls – The Moonlight Greatsword

In a game series as unforgiving as Dark Souls, any advantage helps. The Moonlight Greatsword, a recurring weapon throughout FromSoftware’s titles, is one of the most iconic items in the series. It’s not just the sparkling blue blade (though that’s a definite plus); it’s the fact that this sword rewards skill.

Players often have to go through grueling challenges to acquire it, and its unique moveset makes it perfect for magic-oriented builds. Plus, wielding the Moonlight Greatsword feels like you’re carrying a piece of gaming history—it’s been a staple of FromSoftware games since the early King’s Field days.

7. Diablo Series – The Windforce Bow

Loot in Diablo is like candy—plentiful but with a few rare chocolates that make your mouth water. The Windforce Bow is one such treat. In Diablo II, this legendary weapon was the dream for any Amazon-focused player. With insane damage output and a knockback effect, the Windforce had players scouring every dungeon and battling countless mobs just for the chance to pick it up.

Even in Diablo III, where loot rains from the sky like confetti, there’s nothing quite like picking up an item with Windforce-level prestige. It’s proof that an iconic weapon can transcend game versions and still hold its legendary status.

8. Halo Series – The Energy Sword

Let’s shift gears to a weapon that’s as menacing as it is iconic—the Energy Sword from Halo. This plasma blade is an absolute beast in close-range combat and has become synonymous with the Halo franchise itself.

The Energy Sword isn’t just “a cool melee weapon.” It’s the embodiment of power and precision. The “zap” sound as it activates alone is enough to make enemies run in the opposite direction. In multiplayer, snagging the sword can turn the tide of battle, making you feel like a Spartan overlord. It’s sleek, powerful, and oh-so-satisfying to use.

9. Final Fantasy Series – Ultima Weapons

Pick any Final Fantasy game, and you’ll find some version of the Ultima Weapon. These legendary swords are the pinnacle of power—both visually stunning and stats-wise unbeatable. But they’re not just handed to you (this isn’t charity, after all). Obtaining an Ultima Weapon usually involves navigating labyrinthine side quests, defeating challenging bosses, or farming rare materials.

It’s this effort that makes them feel so colossal. When you finally wield an Ultima Weapon, it feels like a badge of honor. You earned it. And in the world of RPGs, there’s no greater flex than that.

So… Which Game Has the Best Loot?

Here’s the thing: Declaring one game’s loot as "the best" feels impossible. These legendary items all excel in their own ways—some are iconic because of the grind required to obtain them, others because of their sheer in-game power. Ultimately, the best loot is the one that resonates with you.

Do you like weapons steeped in lore, like Skyrim’s Daedric Artifacts? Or do you prefer the chaotic, candy-like thrill of a Borderlands lootsplosion? Either way, one thing’s clear: Great loot makes great games even better.