There are many required mechanics in an RPG that Zelda does not have:
1. All RPGs must have an experience point based system and levels.
2. Combat is based around stat calculations and turns, an action RPG simply converts these into an action based execution which impacts combat. I.E. Strength modifiers,
3. All RPGs must have some sort of stat based progression, like strength, vitality, wisdom, and dexterity, which go up as the character gets more experienced.
The reasons why "you play the role of Link" is a terrible definition of a game genre is because it doesn't describe any gameplay mechanics, it is also not at all specific, and would include just about every game from dr. Mario to Pac-Man to Doom. RPGs are specifically about the gameplay mechanics used to design the games, they are primarily adapted from the pen and paper game Dungeons and Dragons. Zelda does not fit the definition of an RPG, not even close, it is in fact an action adventure game, and the point is no more arguable than the existence of climate change; no matter how much you want to deny it, it does factually exist.
I describe myself as a little dose of toxic masculinity.
