Legend of Zelda, The - Link's Awakening (GB)

In The Legend of Zelda - Link's Awakening, players control Link from a top-down perspective, exploring the mysterious Koholint Island. The game combines the adventure, puzzle-solving, and combat elements characteristic of the Zelda series.

Gameplay revolves around exploring the expansive overworld, interacting with peculiar characters, and navigating through intricate dungeons. Link collects vital items such as heart containers, rupees (currency), and new equipment like shields, swords, boomerangs, and hookshots. A unique aspect is the flexible two-button action system, allowing players to assign different items to the A and B buttons for use in combat or puzzle-solving.

The dungeons in the game are challenging labyrinths that require players to use their wits to solve environmental puzzles, find keys, and defeat enemies. Each dungeon culminates in a thrilling boss fight, and upon victory, Link obtains one of the eight Instruments of the Sirens. Link's primary goal is to collect all eight instruments to awaken the Wind Fish and escape the island.

What sets Link's Awakening apart from other Zelda games is the absence of Princess Zelda, the Triforce, and the kingdom of Hyrule. Instead, the story focuses on a peculiar dream and the unique inhabitants of Koholint, including familiar enemies from the Mario universe like Goombas and Piranha Plants, which appear in some side-scrolling platformer sections. The game is also renowned for its complex trading sequence, which is necessary to progress through the game.

With its engaging gameplay, unique narrative, and mysteries to uncover, The Legend of Zelda - Link's Awakening has become an iconic entry in the Zelda series and one of the finest games on the Game Boy.