Z-targeting

Z-targeting, also known as L-targeting, is a recurring skill in the Legend of Zelda series. Z-targeting is the system of "locking on" to enemies, characters, and objects using a specific button; L or Z, depending on the game. This is used to interact with them in an easier fashion, or from a distance. When Z-targeting an enemy and attacking, all of Link's attacks will be directed towards the enemy. When Link is targeting an enemy, character, or object, the camera remains focused on that target, and Link can freely strafe around the target, so he can face the target continuously. Some techniques, such as thrusting or the Jump Attack, as well as backflips and sidestep hops, can only be completed while Z-targeting. If Link Z-targets when no enemy, character, and/or object is front of him, the camera will remain fixed behind Link until the player lets go of the button.

There are two settings for Z-targeting, which can be selected on the Name Registration screen: "SWITCH" and "HOLD." "SWITCH" causes the target to stay locked on to after the Z-button is released, and pressing the Z-button a second time will change the target or exit targeting if no other target is present. To remove targeting when others are present, Link must pull away from the enemy. "HOLD" makes it so that the target is only locked on to while the Z-button is held down. These settings can be reached by going to the option menu on the main menu. L-targeting supports the same settings, and functions the same way.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask
Z-targeting is performed with the help of Link's fairy companion; Navi in Ocarina of Time and Tatl in Majora's Mask.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
L-targeting can be performed from the very outset of the game, with no requirements. Its is necessary for performing the Parry and Jump attacks.

The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
L-targeting (Z-targeting in the Wii version) can be performed without any prerequisites right from the beginning of the game. Since there is no button for simply raising the Shield, it is automatically raised whenever Link uses Z-targeting or L-targeting. This is necessary for performing several of the Hidden Skills, the exceptions being the Mortal Draw and Great Spin Attack.