Curse

Introduced in the original The Legend of Zelda, a jinx is a status effect that Link suffers in many games after he touches a specific type of Bubble. Once he touches one, he will not be able to draw his sword until the effect disappears.

In The Legend of Zelda, merely touching a normal Bubble would incapacitate Link from using his sword. If Link were to come in contact with a Red Bubble, he would not be able to wield his sword until he either touches a Blue Bubble, drinks a potion, or gets healed with a fairy.

In Majora's Mask, when Link is affected by a jinx, he has a blue mist surrounding his body and he can not draw his sword; however, the effect is temporary and will wear off after a little while. Link can also immediately remove the effect of a jinx by playing the Song of Storms. There are two ways to circumvent the effects of a jinx. Fierce Deity Link can still use his Double Helix Sword, and the Great Fairy Sword can also be used while Link is jinxed (because it is used on a C-Button rather than the B-Button.)

In Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons, equipping a Whisp Ring will prevent the jinx from affecting Link.

In The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Link cannot use his sword or items if jinxed by a Blue Bubble. The effect will wear off after a while, but can be removed by stepping in light.