Released in the US in August, 1993, Link's Awakening marks the Zelda series' first debut to the world of handheld gaming consoles on the Nintendo Game Boy. Unlike most other Zelda games, this game takes place outside the world of Hyrule or even the inclusion of Princess Zelda herself. Instead, players take control of a shipwrecked hero, Link, as he washes ashore a mysterious island, which atop the tallest mountain rests a giant, watchful egg. Finding guidance from a wise owl and local inhabitants of the island, Link sets off on a quest to obtain eight instruments of the Sirens and wake the Wind Fish that sleeps atop the mountain so that he can return home. The story is unique and so elegantly poignant, as the characters found in this game reveal a degree of self-awareness and quiet dignity in their solitary lives. Originally intended as a bit of spin-off for the Zelda series, the game is also not afraid to be weird as all heck when desired, featuring cameos from the Mario and Kirby series even. This combination of refined and quirky storytelling make for quite the memorable adventure.
Aside from the deep and rich narrative that unfolds during this adventure, the game does a remarkably good job at capturing the essence of Zelda gameplay as found on its home console counterparts. From the intertwining caves and mountains of the wide overworld, to the complex halls that make the game's many varied dungeons, Link's Awakening perfectly delivers the thrill that is exploration, puzzle solving, and tight combat. The game also features many unique elements and items, such as Roc's Feather which allows Link to jump now in both overhead and 2D segments, or the infamous trading sequence quest, where players would trade a series of items over the course of the adventure from inhabitant to inhabitant, only to end up with something radically different than what they started with. This idea of trading sequences has become a common staple in the Zelda series since its inception in Link's Awakening.
It's amazing to think despite all the limitations of such small hardware, this game was able to not only match the majesty and grandeur of a Zelda adventure, but also exceed and inspire the series for generations to come. It just goes to show that even in its simplest form, well-executed and polished ideas can deliver a lasting resonance with the player.
Fun Fact: If players are able to beat the game without losing any lives, a certain key character can be seen after the ending credits. Depending on which version you are playing of the game (the original Game Boy version or Game Boy Color DX version), this character will take on a different form.
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