The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds

 3DS
User Score
9.0

Universal acclaim- based on 1706 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,552 out of 1706
  2. Mixed: 77 out of 1706
  3. Negative: 77 out of 1706
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  1. TomComics
    Nov 24, 2013
    10
    Truly a masterpiece on the 3DS. Nintendo really created a sequel to "A Link to the Past", featuring the old map but new features, most specifically the Merging Ring. The idea to make every item available to rent/purchase is very creative, making me think twice before spending my Rupees. The new villain is superb, and a fresh idea instead of always having Ganon as the main antagonist inTruly a masterpiece on the 3DS. Nintendo really created a sequel to "A Link to the Past", featuring the old map but new features, most specifically the Merging Ring. The idea to make every item available to rent/purchase is very creative, making me think twice before spending my Rupees. The new villain is superb, and a fresh idea instead of always having Ganon as the main antagonist in every title. This game is truly amazing, and one of the best titles the 3DS has to offer.… Expand
  2. spi280
    Feb 17, 2014
    10
    the best zelda game. it may be very easy but i can let this slide since everything else about this game is great. no story that drags on or constant handholding like the last couple zelda games. the open ended structure of the game is also something i really like and searching the world for all the collectibles is very addicting and rewarding. the music and graphics are also quite good.
  3. schmageggey
    Jan 13, 2014
    10
    First I want to say that this is the first Zelda game I have ever played. With that said, this is one of the best games I have ever played. Exploring every nook and cranny of Hyrule, getting every item, experiencing every event was a thrill a minute. The world is so rich and full of character and history that I was so blown away. The gameplay was also an amazing feat hacking and slashingFirst I want to say that this is the first Zelda game I have ever played. With that said, this is one of the best games I have ever played. Exploring every nook and cranny of Hyrule, getting every item, experiencing every event was a thrill a minute. The world is so rich and full of character and history that I was so blown away. The gameplay was also an amazing feat hacking and slashing away, solving puzzles, merging with the environment and traversing to dimensions is simply dumbfounding. I never knew how breathtaking a Legend of Zelda game was until I experienced. This game has launched Zelda-madness for me and I will never forget the first time I explored Hyrule.… Expand
  4. ja52ng74
    Dec 8, 2013
    10
    Never a dull moment as tedious things such as obtaining arrows and bombs from grass is removed
    + Cut-scenes are kept relevant and at a minimum with the ability to skip them
    + Great climactic finale and ending + More freedom and less linear than previous Zelda games + Enough content to complete without taking too long + Challenging Hero Mode The entire game is a masterpiece from     Never a dull moment as tedious things such as obtaining arrows and bombs from grass is removed
    + Cut-scenes are kept relevant and at a minimum with the ability to skip them
    + Great climactic finale and ending
    + More freedom and less linear than previous Zelda games
    + Enough content to complete without taking too long
    + Challenging Hero Mode
    The entire game is a masterpiece from start to finish, and it is what most games should be like, rather than the interactive movies they are today. I'm hoping that the non-linearity, the use of the energy gauge and everything else used to eliminate any boring parts will become a staple in the series from now on.    … Expand
  5. shm0
    Nov 24, 2013
    10
    A great return to anyone who loved A Link to the Past, or anyone who is looking for a great adventure game to play. I was on the fence about buying this system just for this game, but it was definitely worth it. 3DS has so many other cool things as well.
  6. Jaunty
    Mar 13, 2015
    10
    The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is a fantastic game. It lacks a little in originality and challenge, but other than that, it's tops. Everything about it is high quality and satisfying; I can't recall ever playing a better handheld game. You'll love it.
  7. OhTheDerp
    Apr 18, 2014
    10
    I absolutely LOVE this game, and I usually don't like Zelda games very much. But this game... There is actually nothing I can complain about; it's got fun bossfights, delightful graphics and even the dungeons are fun. I must recommend this to anyone who is an old Zelda fan and to newcomers.
  8. Obviously
    Jan 2, 2014
    10
    The lowest review scores are from Destructoid and The Escapist so it's safe to say this is a great game that people who don't contrarily hate something because it's popular will really enjoy.
  9. EFYevan
    Nov 26, 2013
    10
    This is the sequel to the greatest game of all time I had high expectations, but somehow this game exceeded them! I highly recommend this game for any fan of video games you will love it! 10/10
  10. Bugman
    Nov 29, 2013
    10
    A Link Between Worlds is a more than satisfying sequel to 1991's Zelda: A link to the Past. I haven't had this much fun with a Zelda game in a long time, it still shows you that the world of Zelda can still bring much discovery after so many years. Familiar surroundings doesn't necessarily mean familiar gameplay mechanics. ALBW carry's a good balance between items you find on your ownA Link Between Worlds is a more than satisfying sequel to 1991's Zelda: A link to the Past. I haven't had this much fun with a Zelda game in a long time, it still shows you that the world of Zelda can still bring much discovery after so many years. Familiar surroundings doesn't necessarily mean familiar gameplay mechanics. ALBW carry's a good balance between items you find on your own and what is already available to you without making things too easy. Fun puzzles to solve and unique boss fights are still at the core of the game but still has enough side quests to keep you busy.
    If you were still on the fence about this one, worry not. It has a good pace without ever making anything dry.    … Expand
  11. For_we_are_many
    Nov 27, 2013
    10
    This Zelda iteration took me by surprise and never let go, it's one of the best Zelda games dare I say, ever; the beauty in the visual direction is rivaled not only by an intricately amazing dungeon designs but also by one of the best soundtracks you'll ever hear in a video game. This game changed a lot of Zelda conventions for the absolute better, from the way the items, exploration andThis Zelda iteration took me by surprise and never let go, it's one of the best Zelda games dare I say, ever; the beauty in the visual direction is rivaled not only by an intricately amazing dungeon designs but also by one of the best soundtracks you'll ever hear in a video game. This game changed a lot of Zelda conventions for the absolute better, from the way the items, exploration and puzzles are handled to the innovative and thought-provoking use of the New power of 2D Link "Merging" with walls. It also has the best use of 3D on the 3DS. All in all, Zelda: ALBW succeeds in almost every way imaginable for a videogame masterpiece and continues to cement the notion held by many gamers that the Zelda franchise is the gold standard for video games.… Expand
  12. dharma
    Jul 22, 2015
    10
    The best Zelda in ages is not a technological powerhouse, rather a throwback and sequel to one of its best installment: A Link to the Past. Non linear game play and awesome dungeons offset its 'simple, non 3D graphics', providing an incredibly rewarding experience. If you have a 3DS, and you love Nintendo, get this game. As a proof of its quality, it is the game of its year for Gamespot,The best Zelda in ages is not a technological powerhouse, rather a throwback and sequel to one of its best installment: A Link to the Past. Non linear game play and awesome dungeons offset its 'simple, non 3D graphics', providing an incredibly rewarding experience. If you have a 3DS, and you love Nintendo, get this game. As a proof of its quality, it is the game of its year for Gamespot, one of the most 'stingiest' game review site on the net.… Expand
  13. swaron
    Nov 25, 2013
    10
    I really like this iteration of Zelda. A few new innovations and less a compelling story, but it is made up for in the tight controls, gorgeous graphics, unique vibrant worlds and plenty of exploration. I personally like the wall merge capability and how it was integrated into battles and some fairly complex puzzles, which this game has plenty of. You have to think through a lot of yourI really like this iteration of Zelda. A few new innovations and less a compelling story, but it is made up for in the tight controls, gorgeous graphics, unique vibrant worlds and plenty of exploration. I personally like the wall merge capability and how it was integrated into battles and some fairly complex puzzles, which this game has plenty of. You have to think through a lot of your next moves carefully, but it is never to hard.
    I played all the way through in 2 days, about 20 hours worth. I didn't want it to end, but with the addition of a more "open" game-play philosophy for a Zelda game, replay is moderately high. 10    … Expand
  14. xxAcesHighxx
    Jul 31, 2015
    10
    What initially felt like a game hanging on for dear life to the overwhelming nostalgia that Zelda fans feel for A Link to the Past, soon shed the apron strings and – to my surprise – ended up being my favourite game in this glorious franchise since those heady SNES days.

    So, what exactly made A Link Between Worlds my favourite Zelda game in years? A number of things actually. For    What initially felt like a game hanging on for dear life to the overwhelming nostalgia that Zelda fans feel for A Link to the Past, soon shed the apron strings and – to my surprise – ended up being my favourite game in this glorious franchise since those heady SNES days.

    So, what exactly made A Link Between Worlds my favourite Zelda game in years? A number of things actually. For starters, the gorgeous 3D visuals (supported by a 2.5D top-down display) are hands down some of the best that Nintendo have bestowed upon the 3DS to date! Then there's the freedom to tackle Hyrules eight dungeons in the order of your choosing. And the fact that you can hire Link's bevy of weapons and items right off the bat. But most of all, I simply adored the puzzle-heavy labyrinths and dungeons that actually make you think about how to tackle each room.

    I went into A Link Between Worlds with minimal expectations, but came out feeling like a kid at Christmas. As far as I'm concerned, ALBW stands shoulder to shoulder with A Link to the Past, Ocarina of Time, and The Wind Waker as one of the finest entries to ever grace this fabulous franchise. And I absolutely love it.    … Expand
  15. skeith
    Oct 31, 2019
    10
    Another must-play title for the 3DS/2DS, Fun and challenging, well-designed world and adequate puzzles difficulty. A very good THE LEGEND OF ZELDA entry. This game proves top down Zelda can be as much fun as their 3D counterparts. I want more of these!
  16. EonBlue
    Nov 23, 2013
    10
    This game is as close to perfect as games come. It really is a must have for Zelda fans, especially for those that played and loved Link to the Past. It looks gorgeous, plays like a dream, is chock full of nostalgia and Zelda references and uses 3D better than any other game I've played. 10/10!
  17. Demonik420
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    A Nostalgia paradise! Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is nothing short of a masterpiece in every sense of the word. Nintendo proves once again that they are true masters of their craft. in this barren and desolate gaming landscape where AAA, 4 hour long, slapped together, interactive movies rule the "video game" industry ALBW truly shines brighter than ever.

    To understand, appreciate and    A Nostalgia paradise! Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is nothing short of a masterpiece in every sense of the word. Nintendo proves once again that they are true masters of their craft. in this barren and desolate gaming landscape where AAA, 4 hour long, slapped together, interactive movies rule the "video game" industry ALBW truly shines brighter than ever.

    To understand, appreciate and pay homage to ones roots is one thing. but to do it in a way that brings so much innovation to the table is nothing short of astounding which is more than i can say for some companies (Im looking at you Sega so get your notepad out you might learn something). Some might say that making a sequel based on an old established and proven formula is too safe but to them i say LOOK AT THE SONIC SERIES. It seems no matter what Sega does they fail, even when they for all intents and purposes do exactly what ALBW does ala sonic 4. Generations got it better than the former but in comparison to almost ANY Nintendo title, where classic characters are concerned: I would still consider Generations a failure. Nintendo has a mastery of balancing nostalgia with innovation that Sonic Team can only dream of having.

    The 3DS has been absolutely ON FIRE this year and with great titles like Kirby, Yoshis Island and Bravely Default heading our way next year Nintendo shows no signs of stopping. If ALBW is any sign you can bet those games will be incredible as well. Its great to see a huge company not afraid to bring new things to the table while not forgetting what got them there in the first place! Thanks Nintendo for the trip down memory lane!    … Expand
  18. TheLeapist
    Dec 30, 2013
    10
    I must say first of all that the art in this game is absolutely fantastic. The simple and smooth 3d sprites are beautiful. I'm praying they make at least a couple more Zelda games with this same engine. Gameplay is also great. Exactly what you'd expect from the great zelda franchise. A lot of people complain about how the items are rented from a single central location instead of earned inI must say first of all that the art in this game is absolutely fantastic. The simple and smooth 3d sprites are beautiful. I'm praying they make at least a couple more Zelda games with this same engine. Gameplay is also great. Exactly what you'd expect from the great zelda franchise. A lot of people complain about how the items are rented from a single central location instead of earned in the dungeons, but I've quite enjoyed how it's made the dungeon system a bit more dynamic. Long story short: buy this game.… Expand
  19. richard_diver
    Nov 27, 2013
    10
    This game is just wonderful. Beautiful and detailed world to explore, challenging enought puzzles and familiar yet breathtaking story. I wish all the games would be as thought-through and deep on all levels possible.
  20. BloodyRandy
    Nov 25, 2013
    10
    I don't typically write many game reviews. I bought this game with a few other titles, some for the ps4 and new super Mario 3d world. All of these games were great but a link between worlds was something special. I was expecting to play it for a few minutes get the jist of it and move on but all of a sudden Nintendo captivated me a cliche story we've all come to grow and love but theI don't typically write many game reviews. I bought this game with a few other titles, some for the ps4 and new super Mario 3d world. All of these games were great but a link between worlds was something special. I was expecting to play it for a few minutes get the jist of it and move on but all of a sudden Nintendo captivated me a cliche story we've all come to grow and love but the humor behind it and hilarious scenarios takes Zelda to a whole new level. Without spoiling anything I'll just say not only does this game produce critical thinking but the story is by far the funniest and well written than all Zeldas before it. Even for a 3ds game this should be GOTY. I wasn't expecting much from this game and didn't care for the videos or screenshots. I was pleasantly surprised at how good this game is. If you don't have it go get it now… Expand
  21. bobbyman46
    Dec 25, 2013
    10
    Easy to learn, addictive and fun. Just a few words to describe this game, one of the best zelda games ever! It is a must buy for any 3ds user and is a great game to get started in the Legend of Zelda franchise!
  22. dtp11
    Nov 26, 2013
    10
    This is by far the best Zelda game since A Link to the Past. It's a shame it took Nintendo 22 years to realize that the top-down 2D style of Zelda is the BEST style of Zelda. I really hope they learned their lesson so I don't have to wait another 2 decades for another one! Keep the 2D top-down Zelda games coming!

    At first I was turned off by the art style, but after playing it, I not    This is by far the best Zelda game since A Link to the Past. It's a shame it took Nintendo 22 years to realize that the top-down 2D style of Zelda is the BEST style of Zelda. I really hope they learned their lesson so I don't have to wait another 2 decades for another one! Keep the 2D top-down Zelda games coming!

    At first I was turned off by the art style, but after playing it, I not only got used to it (almost immediately), but I actually really like it now! Also, the wall painting mechanic I thought would be gimmicky and dumb, but it's actually pretty cool and I really like it now too!

    The new item system allows a new sort of freedom (tackling dungeons in any order you want is pretty neat).. If you found the game too easy, a hard mode unlocks after you beat the game, which is a nice challenge.

    The music and frequent references to A Link to the Past are nostalgia heaven!

    The original Zelda, ALTTP, and Link's Awakening were the best Zelda games and A Link Between Worlds is right up there with them!

    Go buy it if you haven't already! You will love it! It's the game of the decade and certainly game of the year for me! Thank you, Nintendo!    … Expand
  23. SwitSwat
    Mar 29, 2014
    10
    I would like to go out on a limb here and say that alongside OoT 3D, this is the best 3DS title released to date. I was glad they finally made a LttP sequel, and it's awesome. The 3D effects in this game are really great and only add to the beautiful environments, characters, etc. The dungeons are challenging enough to give you a good head scratching, and the game is decently long, like aI would like to go out on a limb here and say that alongside OoT 3D, this is the best 3DS title released to date. I was glad they finally made a LttP sequel, and it's awesome. The 3D effects in this game are really great and only add to the beautiful environments, characters, etc. The dungeons are challenging enough to give you a good head scratching, and the game is decently long, like a Zelda game should be. 10/10… Expand
  24. setz
    Nov 22, 2013
    10
    You see every time I start up a new file on a Zelda game I get this strange and magical feeling. It’s the anticipation of a new world to explore, it’s knowing that the next couple weeks or months of my life is going to be spent playing in this worl--I mean, game. But most of all it’s knowing that I am going to get so lost in Hyrule that it takes over my life and I might even end upYou see every time I start up a new file on a Zelda game I get this strange and magical feeling. It’s the anticipation of a new world to explore, it’s knowing that the next couple weeks or months of my life is going to be spent playing in this worl--I mean, game. But most of all it’s knowing that I am going to get so lost in Hyrule that it takes over my life and I might even end up breaking the flower pots in my backyard just to check for rupees. This was certainly the case with this game as well and its a EXTREMELY well done entry in the LoZ series and a near perfect game in my opinion. Dat Soundtrack!!… Expand
  25. CarterSJ
    Nov 29, 2013
    10
    I have to admit, A Link Between Worlds blew me completely away. Stunned, was the word. Stunned by how good it was. I've been a long-time Zelda fan, and A Link to the Past has been the mainstay of that franchise, in my mind. This game both pays homage to, and in some ways, surpasses, that title. It is incredibly polished, smooth gameplay, fluid animations, gripping story, challengingI have to admit, A Link Between Worlds blew me completely away. Stunned, was the word. Stunned by how good it was. I've been a long-time Zelda fan, and A Link to the Past has been the mainstay of that franchise, in my mind. This game both pays homage to, and in some ways, surpasses, that title. It is incredibly polished, smooth gameplay, fluid animations, gripping story, challenging dungeons, and so on. A must-have for any Zelda fan, and any 3DS owner. It blows Ocarina of Time 3D away.… Expand
  26. DarthSidious63
    Dec 20, 2013
    10
    The Legend Of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is an amazing game given that its on the 3DS. It brings on all the greatness of the Link To The Past without being an anachronism. It also brings back what is missing today and that is the single player experience which means having a great story.
  27. SNESFanForever
    Sep 10, 2016
    10
    Simply the best Zelda game from the last decade. It is simple, smart and fixes everything that was frustrating in A Link To The Past. Only the graphics might grow old with time, the rest will remain a masterpiece.
  28. benji232
    Nov 27, 2013
    10
    ,One of the best puzzle/adventure games on the Nintendo3ds. The new twists that ALBW brings to the franchises is a breath of fresh air. While the game is a bit shorter then regular zelda games, it is still much better then the ds games and it's classes itself in one of the best zelda games of all time.
  29. ldw468
    Nov 27, 2013
    10
    Just started Hero Mode on this game. One of the best handheld experiences I have ever had. The game kept me engaged from the beginning to the end, it did everything that a handheld Zelda needed to do. The concepts in the game were so fully integrated into the game, there are reasons why I consider Nintendo to be some of the best game makers of all time. A step forward for the series and aJust started Hero Mode on this game. One of the best handheld experiences I have ever had. The game kept me engaged from the beginning to the end, it did everything that a handheld Zelda needed to do. The concepts in the game were so fully integrated into the game, there are reasons why I consider Nintendo to be some of the best game makers of all time. A step forward for the series and a highly recommended purchase.… Expand
  30. Gorguts666
    Nov 25, 2013
    10
    Let me just start out by saying that a Link to the Past is not only my favorite zelda game of all time, but it is and always will be one of my absolute favorite VIDEO GAMES of all time! when i heard this game was announced i was very skeptical, but I've got to say nintendo have really nailed it on the head with this one! Anyone who enjoyed a link to the past or any other 2d zelda adventureLet me just start out by saying that a Link to the Past is not only my favorite zelda game of all time, but it is and always will be one of my absolute favorite VIDEO GAMES of all time! when i heard this game was announced i was very skeptical, but I've got to say nintendo have really nailed it on the head with this one! Anyone who enjoyed a link to the past or any other 2d zelda adventure will find themselves instantly grinning from ear to ear. I won't spoil too much but this game is a joy from beginning to end, set in the same hyrule as link to the past but packed to the limits with new exciting content, and so many secrets I couldn't even begin to describe. Also the art direction is perfect, and the 3D effect is actually handled perfectly, i found i played with it turned on almost the whole time. basically, if you have ever loved 2d zelda adventures, you would be doing yourself a disservice by not picking this one up!… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

2
#2 Best 3DS Game of 2013
2
#2 Most Discussed 3DS Game of 2013
3
#3 Most Shared 3DS Game of 2013

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
91

Universal acclaim - based on 81 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 79 out of 81
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 81
  3. Negative: 0 out of 81
  1. Pelit (Finland)
    Mar 11, 2014
    93
    A very good action RPG in a sandbox-like Hyrule. The game features a redefined equipment progression along with the nice flattening trick. It's a bit on the easy side, though. [Dec 2013]
  2. GameCritics
    Feb 6, 2014
    85
    A Link Between Worlds is a Zelda for people who have become disillusioned with Zelda over the years. It recalls the series' roots while also taking unique advantage of the 3DS hardware to create something that feels new. They may not make them exactly like they used to anymore, but Link Between Worlds shows that they still recognize what made them great in the first place.
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  3. Level7.nu
    Jan 2, 2014
    90
    Much is the same in A Link Between Worlds. Just like in A Link to the Past you follow Link from a birds-eye perspective in both light and dark worlds. But A Link Between Worlds is not merely a simple game of nostalgia but one that perfectly blends the new and old Zelda games. The result is one of the best games in the series.
    Read full review
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