Search for games

Type three or more characters to search...

Links

Amazon

MONSTER

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Item: The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Open World, Side View Perspective, Top-Down Perspective, Single Player

AvailableSep 20, 2019

PlatformNintendo Switch

DeveloperNintendo, GREZZO

Overview

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is a remake of the 1993 game of the same name. Besides the complete graphical and sound overhaul, its gameplay controls have been changed to incorporate the additional buttons the Switch holds as opposed to the 2-button choice of the Game Boy. The overworld map is far more detailed and specific locations can now be marked to be returned to on a later occasion. Additional heart-pieces can also be won, extending the heart meter to a total of 20 instead of the 14 hearts of the original.

Elsewhere

8.2

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

98%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The majority of critics praised the story of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its uniqueness, creativity, and engaging narrative. Critics like FNintendo, Worth Playing, and Gameplanet highlighted the game's creativity, engaging story, and charismatic characters. Universo Nintendo and Cubed3 appreciated the engaging and captivating world of Koholint Island, with nods to other Zelda games and cameos from Nintendo characters. Critics such as M3 and RPG Site commended the game for its mystical and engaging story, memorable characters, and emotional storytelling. The narrative was described as refreshingly philosophical by Nintendo Life, with a focus on collecting the Eight Instruments of The Sirens to awaken the Wind Fish, adding a new dimension to the Zelda universe. While the majority of critics found the story of Link's Awakening to be very good, there were some minor criticisms. Destructoid mentioned that the story makes both no sense and perfect sense, indicating a level of ambiguity that may not appeal to all players. Press Start Australia noted that the game doesn't provide much context for the story, which could potentially leave some players wanting more depth or background information. However, these criticisms were overshadowed by the overall positive reception of the game's story and its ability to keep players engaged through mystery and exploration. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the story of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. The game was praised for its unique and strange narrative, captivating world, engaging characters, and emotional storytelling. Critics appreciated the departure from the typical Zelda storyline, the surreal and dreamlike elements, and the blend of traditional Zelda elements with modern twists. IGN Spain highlighted the exceptional storytelling that delves into surrealism and incorporates elements from other Nintendo franchises, while GameSpot praised the fanciful side story with moments of bittersweet melancholy. The game's ability to offer a fresh take on the Zelda formula while staying true to its roots resonated well with critics, making Link's Awakening a standout title in the series.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics rave about The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its unique, creative, and engaging narrative, praising its captivating world, memorable characters, and emotional storytelling. Some minor criticisms include ambiguity in the story and lack of context, but overall, the game's positive reception shines through for its fresh take on the Zelda universe with surreal elements and modern twists. A standout title in the series that keeps players engaged through mystery and exploration.

Gameplay Mechanics

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

86%

Mixed (50-79)

14%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The majority of critics praised the gameplay of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its engaging and rewarding experience. Many critics highlighted the traditional Zelda gameplay elements such as exploring the overworld, solving puzzles, battling enemies, and facing challenging bosses in dungeons. Critics like Nintenderos and Pure Nintendo appreciated the mix of dungeon exploration, diverse abilities, and rewarding puzzles, creating a well-rounded gameplay experience. Additionally, improvements in controls, mobility, and quality-of-life enhancements, as noted by Nintendo Enthusiast and Press Start Australia, contributed to a smoother and more enjoyable gameplay experience. The addition of new features like Roc's Feather, Hero Mode, and the Dungeon Creator mode were also well-received, adding depth and replay value to the game, as mentioned by Pure Nintendo and VG247. On the other hand, some critics expressed concerns about certain aspects of the gameplay in The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. Hardcore Gamer mentioned that the addition of Dampe's Chamber Dungeons felt limited and lacked challenge, while COGconnected found the Chamber Dungeons addition to be lackluster and more of a chore. Game Revolution noted that some bosses were disappointingly easy, detracting from the overall challenge of the game. Despite these criticisms, the negative aspects were relatively minor compared to the overall positive reception of the gameplay by the majority of critics. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the gameplay of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. The game successfully captures the essence of classic Zelda gameplay while introducing new features and quality-of-life improvements that enhance the overall experience. Critics like Easy Allies and Game Informer praised the game for its well-designed dungeons, clever puzzles, and engaging boss battles that deliver a sense of satisfaction. The blend of exploration, combat, puzzles, and item collection in a compact and teeming world, as highlighted by VG247 and Washington Post, resonated well with both new and experienced players. The game's ability to maintain the core Zelda formula while introducing modern updates and additions was widely appreciated, making it a memorable and enjoyable adventure for fans of the series.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics overwhelmingly praised The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its engaging gameplay, traditional Zelda elements, and new features like Roc's Feather and the Dungeon Creator mode. The game received high marks for its well-rounded experience, improved controls, and quality-of-life enhancements, although some critics found the Chamber Dungeons lacking in challenge and certain bosses too easy. Overall, critics lauded the game for capturing the essence of classic Zelda while introducing modern updates, making it a memorable and enjoyable adventure for fans old and new.

Graphics and Visual Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

74%

Mixed (50-79)

26%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its graphics and visual design, highlighting its charming and delightful art style that successfully updated the original game for modern audiences. Critics like Worth Playing and Gameblog.fr commended the adorable figurine-like character models and colorful 3D graphics that enhanced the overall aesthetic of the game. The diorama visuals, clay-like characters, and vibrant colors were also noted to capture the essence of the original while adding a playful and unique twist, as mentioned by Multiplayer.it and Eurogamer Italy. Additionally, the game's art style was commended for its toy-like feel, with critics like Nintendo Insider and TrueGaming appreciating the diorama-like aesthetic that brought a fresh and endearing look to the world of Link's Awakening. On the other hand, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks in the graphics and visual design of the game. Issues such as frame rate drops, blurred vignettes, and occasional technical hitches were mentioned by reviewers like Universo Nintendo, GameSpew, and Screen Rant. Game Revolution and Pocket Gamer UK highlighted the subdued look of the dungeons, which detracted from the overall graphical strengths of the game. Furthermore, GameSpot and God is a Geek noted graphical issues like frame pacing problems and frame-rate inconsistencies in larger open areas, affecting the overall visual experience for players. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the graphics and visual design of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. The majority of reviewers appreciated the game's stunning visuals, vibrant colors, and charming art style that successfully updated the classic title while maintaining its nostalgic appeal. Critics like Gamer.nl and VG247 praised the visual overhaul for enhancing the game's atmosphere and drawing players into the adventure. Despite some technical issues and occasional frame rate drops, the overall sentiment is that the graphics and artistic direction of Link's Awakening are remarkable and make it one of the best-looking top-down 2D Zelda games on the Nintendo Switch.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Critics loved The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for its charming and delightful art style, praising its colorful 3D graphics and toy-like diorama visuals that updated the classic game for modern audiences. While some reviewers noted minor graphical issues like frame rate drops, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with many hailing it as one of the best-looking top-down 2D Zelda games on the Nintendo Switch.

Music and Sound Design

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

91%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics praised the Sound Design and Music of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, highlighting various positive aspects. Reviewers such as Meristation, Pure Nintendo, and Impulsegamer commended the charming acoustic effects, revamped soundtrack with various instruments, and fantastic new remixes of classic tunes. The orchestrated score was particularly well-received, with critics like Vandal and DarkStation noting the masterful instrumentalization that maintained the essence of the original themes. Additionally, critics like Gameplanet and Universo Nintendo appreciated the refined orchestrations and timeless tunes that added to the magical experience of the game. On the other hand, some critics expressed mixed feelings about the Sound Design and Music of the game. RPGamer and FNintendo mentioned that certain tracks lacked the epic feel of the original soundtrack, with RPGamer noting that the music at times felt lacking or mushy. TheSixthAxis pointed out that while the new recordings of classic themes were wonderful, the main Legend of Zelda theme could become repetitive. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment leaned towards the positive side, with the majority of critics acknowledging the enhancements brought by the reorchestrated music and full instrumental arrangements. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive regarding the Sound Design and Music of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. The updated soundtrack, featuring reorchestrated music and full instrumental arrangements, was widely praised for enhancing the overall gaming experience. Critics like RPG Site and Easy Allies highlighted the high-quality sound design and fantastic new takes on the musical score. The game's ability to maintain the charm and quality of the original while introducing modern sounds and orchestral arrangements was a key factor in its success, as noted by Areajugones and Nintendo Enthusiast. Overall, the majority of critics found the Sound Design and Music to be a standout aspect of the game, contributing significantly to its timeless appeal and overall enjoyment.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about the Sound Design and Music in The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, praising charming acoustic effects, revamped soundtrack, and fantastic remixes. While some critics had mixed feelings about certain tracks, the majority agreed that the reorchestrated music and instrumental arrangements enhanced the gaming experience. Overall, the consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with critics highlighting the high-quality sound design and modern updates to the classic tunes, making it a standout feature of the game.

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

Mixed (50-79)

90%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of positives for the Nintendo Switch version of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, critics like The Games Machine and Slant Magazine praise the game for successfully recreating the original experience while enhancing it for modern audiences. Additionally, Metro Montreal highlights improvements in loading times and smoother controls, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. On the flip side, the Nintendo Switch version of the game faces several technical issues according to multiple critics. GameSpew, Game Revolution, and Vooks point out problems such as blurred vignettes, significant frame rate drops, and inconsistent graphics, which can impact the overall experience negatively. Critics like Nintendo Insider and TrueGaming also mention distracting frame rate fluctuations and stuttering during gameplay, particularly in crowded areas and transitions between locations. Overall, the consensus among critics regarding the technical performance of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening on the Nintendo Switch leans towards a mixed reception. While some reviewers acknowledge the game's charming character designs and nostalgic appeal despite occasional frame rate issues, others, like GameOver.gr and Daily Star, criticize the noticeable frame rate dips and under-utilized controls that hinder the gameplay experience. Despite the varying opinions on technical performance, most critics agree that the game's issues, such as frame rate drops and inconsistencies, do detract from the overall enjoyment to some extent.

TL;DR

technical performance

Critics praise Nintendo Switch's The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for modern enhancements but note technical issues like frame rate drops and graphics inconsistencies that affect gameplay experience, leading to mixed reviews on its overall performance.

Replay Value

Click for more details

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

28%

Mixed (50-79)

67%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for the Nintendo Switch has received mixed opinions from critics regarding its replay value. Positives highlighted by reviewers include the addition of new features such as the Chamber Dungeon mode, Hero Mode for increased challenge, and quality-of-life improvements like more collectibles, secret seashells, and mini-games. Critics like Nintendo Life and Pure Nintendo appreciated the Chamber Dungeons for allowing players to create and share custom dungeons, adding depth and replayability to the game. The inclusion of new content like additional towns to visit, secrets to uncover, and various paths to explore was also praised by My Nintendo News and Everyeye.it, enhancing the overall gameplay experience. On the other hand, several critics expressed concerns about the limited replay value of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. Screen Rant and DualShockers criticized the Chamber Dungeon mode for its lack of depth, limited customization options, and absence of online sharing functionality, which could impact long-term engagement. GameCrate and Twinfinite highlighted the restricted replayability due to the short duration of the main story and the underwhelming dungeon maker mode, which may not offer enough variety to keep players coming back for more. Additionally, some reviewers like Universo Nintendo and Cubed3 mentioned unbalanced pricing, lack of polish, and repetitive gameplay elements that could diminish the overall replay value of the game. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a somewhat limited replay value for The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. While the addition of new features like Chamber Dungeons and Hero Mode provides some extra content and challenges for players, the lack of depth in customization, limited sharing options, and potential for quick boredom with repetitive gameplay elements are noted as drawbacks by reviewers such as Game Revolution and Gamer.nl. Despite the mixed opinions, the game's faithful recreation of the original, captivating world design, and quality-of-life improvements were acknowledged by various critics like Forbes and The Daily Dot, contributing to its overall appeal. Ultimately, while the game offers some replay value through its additional content and features, it may not fully satisfy all players seeking extensive longevity and variety in their gameplay experience.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are divided on the replay value of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for the Nintendo Switch. Positives include new features like Chamber Dungeons and additional content, but concerns were raised about limited customization, lack of depth in the dungeon maker mode, and potential for quick boredom. Overall, while the game offers some extra challenges and improvements, it may not provide enough variety for long-term engagement.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

94%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for the Nintendo Switch received overwhelmingly positive feedback from the majority of critics. Many praised the game for its faithful recreation of the original while adding modern enhancements, making it a delightful and nostalgic experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. Critics like Trusted Reviews and Pure Nintendo commended the updated aesthetics, superior controls, and surprises that the remake brought to the table. The game was described as a timeless masterpiece by Areajugones, capturing the essence of the original while offering a fresh perspective. The charming visual style, well-crafted gameplay, and inventive dungeons were highlighted as standout features by critics such as Metro GameCentral and GamesRadar++. On the flip side, some critics pointed out certain drawbacks of The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening. Game Revolution and Universo Nintendo criticized the game for its lack of value at its price point and being a 1:1 copy of the original game. Twinfinite and Screen Rant mentioned minor drawbacks like the lack of surprises for returning fans, limited depth in the dungeon maker mode, and a somewhat short length for a full-price game. Technical issues, including framerate issues and uneven performance, were also noted by Wccftech, Gamer.nl, and Softpedia as areas that could be improved upon to enhance the overall experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is overwhelmingly positive, with the majority considering The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening to be a must-play title for fans of the series. The game was praised for its captivating world, charming gameplay, and successful revitalization of a classic title. Critics like Forbes and RPG Fan lauded the game as an excellent remake that retains the charm of the original while offering modern enhancements. The game's ability to enchant players with its timeless appeal, as noted by Areajugones, and its status as a standout title, as mentioned by Softpedia, solidify its position as a top-tier gaming experience. Despite some minor flaws, the overall sentiment is that The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is a delightful and unforgettable adventure that pays homage to its roots while offering something new for players to enjoy.

TL;DR

Critics widely praised The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening for Nintendo Switch, highlighting its faithful recreation with modern enhancements that pleased both old and new fans. The game's charming visuals, inventive dungeons, and captivating gameplay were standout features. Some critics noted drawbacks like the game's price value, lack of surprises, and technical issues. Overall, critics agree that the remake is a must-play title, blending nostalgia with modern improvements for an enchanting and unforgettable experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

173 reviews found

100

Forbes

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is described as an excellent remake of an already faultless Zelda game. It is recommended for both newcomers and fans of the original. The game is given a score of 10/10.

100

Daily Star

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is praised as a quintessential 2D Zelda experience, with gorgeous visuals, beautiful soundtrack, and high replay value, making it a must-have for Zelda fans and a console seller for the Nintendo Switch.

Read full review

100

USgamer

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening remake for the Switch improves upon the original game with charming graphics, epic soundtrack, and welcome improvements to the control scheme, making it a dreamy and classic experience despite occasional technical issues.

100

GamingTrend

Nintendo Switch

Sep 23, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening is a phenomenal remake that retains the nostalgia of the original while presenting it in an entirely new way

Read full review

100

The Daily Dot

Nintendo Switch

Sep 23, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer highly praises the game for its nostalgic and comforting experience, comparing it to revisiting a beloved story like The Hobbit.

Read full review

100

Digitally Downloaded

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The remake is praised for being technically, aesthetically, and creatively well done, but criticized for being a slavish remake that doesn't add much to the original, making it feel somewhat pointless.

Read full review

Atomix

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A faithful remake with quality of life improvements, a must-play for Zelda fans and newcomers alike.

Read full review

Areajugones

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A timeless masterpiece that successfully captures the essence of the original while offering a fresh experience for both longtime fans and newcomers. 'Link's Awakening' is a standout title that continues to enchant players with its timeless appeal.

Read full review

My Nintendo News

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is a super-solid entry in the Zelda series, living up to today's standards and serving as a love letter to Nintendo's greatest. The reviewer gives it a 9.5/10.

Read full review

PLAY! Zine

Nintendo Switch

Sep 19, 2019

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

A delightful title that captures the essence of the Zelda series, recommended for fans who appreciate simplicity and nostalgia in gaming.

Read full review