The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening

 Switch
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1698 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,413 out of 1698
  2. Mixed: 178 out of 1698
  3. Negative: 107 out of 1698
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. Atramentius
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Even though this is a remake of a remake of a 25+ year old game it still feels pretty fresh and is everything what you would expect from a modern 2D Zelda game.
  2. tdub154420
    Sep 23, 2019
    4
    I have to give a 4 on price alone. Great game, fun visuals, who gives an F about frame rate. This game is just as fun as the original and worth playing, but not at $60. This is an HD Remaster of a game boy video game. One of the best game boy games of all time, and one of the best Zeldas, but this is still just an HD Remaster of a game boy game that feels more deserved of 3DS pricesI have to give a 4 on price alone. Great game, fun visuals, who gives an F about frame rate. This game is just as fun as the original and worth playing, but not at $60. This is an HD Remaster of a game boy video game. One of the best game boy games of all time, and one of the best Zeldas, but this is still just an HD Remaster of a game boy game that feels more deserved of 3DS prices than Switch prices. In the same vein as Samus Returns or Link Between Worlds, I think this game is properly priced at $40 around launch. But to put this at the same value as Breath of the Wild or Super Mario Odyssey just makes it feel like there's a disparity in content. And that shouldn't be the focus because the game is great in its own right, but price by comparison makes it feel lacking. The moment this game is permanently reduced in price I will properly amend this score, but as it is now, it needs to be known that this is a great game boy remaster that is unfortunately disproportionately priced.… Expand
  3. Denriquez84
    Sep 23, 2019
    9
    Graphics are amazing, best graphics a ever see, music is awesome and is the best gameplay a ever play on Zelda’s game
  4. Neyyyi
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Amazing game one of the best game that I've played. People definitely you must buy this game.
  5. hakai124
    Sep 23, 2019
    6
    So this may be a mildly controversial opinion, the 1993 original was better. There's a fair amount of good and bad to discuss with the game though to be fair, the good points aren't anything to do with this iteration of the game but more just the original shining through.
    Pros:
    1. This is Link's Awakening, one of the best original Gameboy games from the early 90's. 2. Endearing art    So this may be a mildly controversial opinion, the 1993 original was better. There's a fair amount of good and bad to discuss with the game though to be fair, the good points aren't anything to do with this iteration of the game but more just the original shining through.
    Pros:
    1. This is Link's Awakening, one of the best original Gameboy games from the early 90's.
    2. Endearing art style even though some things look rather basic.
    3. These are all directly from the original; the item variety, the inclusion of enemies from other classic Nintendo games, the decent sized world to explore and find secrets in.

    Cons:
    1. Input lag, this is most noticeable when using the Roc's Feather so far.
    2. Framerate issues, the framerate chugs at times for no discernible reason.
    3. Horrible blur covering roughly the top and bottom 20% of the screen, this may have been an artistic choice but it looks really bad.
    4. Shaking text boxes, trying to read text that's constantly shifting around is a great way to get a headache.
    5. 8 directional movement feels out of place, this is purely subjective due to me playing the Gameboy version of this game a good amount.
    6. Control customization, it's not possible to move with a d-pad if you have a controller with one prominent, the A-button is used purely for context commands and interactions rather than being customizeable, you can only map items to X and Y which can mean some actions like jumping with the Roc's feather feel unnatural.

    Overall it's a decent remake but not for anything the remake did but because of how good the original is. If you're not a huge Zelda fan who simply has to play/own them all you can happily skip this.    … Expand
  6. nuba19
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    10/10 tremendo remake para la mejor saga de video juegos de toda la historia

    Lo siento por los piperos
  7. caotri1986
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Very peaceful when played this game. The legend of zelda series are legends
  8. TruckHeck
    Sep 23, 2019
    8
    Great game. Gorgeous as handheld experience. Stellar sound design, not just the music (which is A+), but the actual pattering of footsteps, etc. Awesome game that is held back by 2 things; the frame rate is "gross looking" (meaning not game breaking) at times and the graphical fidelity falls apart A LOT when docked. The lack of actual new content (despite Dampe's Dungeon) doesn't offsetGreat game. Gorgeous as handheld experience. Stellar sound design, not just the music (which is A+), but the actual pattering of footsteps, etc. Awesome game that is held back by 2 things; the frame rate is "gross looking" (meaning not game breaking) at times and the graphical fidelity falls apart A LOT when docked. The lack of actual new content (despite Dampe's Dungeon) doesn't offset those flaws enough for me to give it a perfect score. Totally buy it though!… Expand
  9. KevWen
    Sep 23, 2019
    9
    Pretty good looking and tons of fun to play. However some irrational design due to its age.
  10. Jacknew
    Sep 23, 2019
    9
    This game have the essence of the original TLOZ Links Awakening released on the GameBoy, it is basically the same game with a new look, it don't have much innovations in comparison of the original but the 2 action buttons and the possibility of mark your objectives in the map
    The new chibi style make them look like toys, it look beautiful, all the game looks like a set of toys
    If you    This game have the essence of the original TLOZ Links Awakening released on the GameBoy, it is basically the same game with a new look, it don't have much innovations in comparison of the original but the 2 action buttons and the possibility of mark your objectives in the map
    The new chibi style make them look like toys, it look beautiful, all the game looks like a set of toys
    If you played a TLOZ before you actually know that the game is very simple and easy at the beginning, but it gets harder and harder while you advance in the game
    The remixes of the 8 bit songs and all the sound in general are pretty good
    If the game actually have a frame rate drop, i didn't notice it, so for me its not a big deal    … Expand
  11. mandydiazz81
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Hearth melting. An awesome remaster. You'll enjoy every single second of it. I promise. Nintendo almost never disappoints with these games.
  12. Nintendoboyblog
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Un joya maestra!! Amo sus gráficos!! Y la historia que se respeta con respecto al juego de Game Boy, exlecente juego.
  13. eriestmo
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Uno de los mejores remakes que haya visto!! Gracias Nintendo!! Grandes gráficos, gran historia y más que todo lograr que los viejos fans lo disfruten. Le daría hasta un 11 de calificación.
  14. Sijun
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    I played this game back when it came out for the first Gameboy but I never finished it. I guess I was to young to get it done. That being said I only played it half through back in the days.
    Now, in 2019, I replayed this Masterpiece and can't praise it enough. Sadly it has some downsides. Lets break it down:
    Pros: - awesome and adorable graphics - stays true to the original (memories    I played this game back when it came out for the first Gameboy but I never finished it. I guess I was to young to get it done. That being said I only played it half through back in the days.
    Now, in 2019, I replayed this Masterpiece and can't praise it enough. Sadly it has some downsides. Lets break it down:

    Pros:
    - awesome and adorable graphics
    - stays true to the original (memories from my childhood)
    - awesome music / sound / atmosphere
    - beautiful, yet simple story
    - improved game mechanics
    - awesome world to explore
    - many secrets to catch
    - lovley characters
    - fun and well designed dungeons (but not that challenging)

    Cons:
    - framedrops are recognizable (you get used to it but in the beginning its kinda annoying)
    - if you dont know the game and are hoping for a long playtime (like BotW), this game might dissapoint you (playtime is around 10-15h, which is completely fine to me, but maybe not for others)
    - low difficulty (if it is your first time picking up this game and are an gaming enthusiast, it might be to easy for you - I highly recommend playing in hard mode, even for the first playthrough)
    - dungeon maker could be more than it has become (online sharing, more freedom to create dungeons)

    Verdict:
    All in all I am absolutely happy with this remake. It gave me a lot of memories and a really good time. I love the art and the overall atmosphere of the game. The story is simple but oh so beautiful. Framedrops are annoying but maybe they will patch that.
    If you are new to the Zelda franchise or never had the chance to play this game (or didnt enjoy the retro graphics on GB) now is your time to enjoy one of the best games ever made.    … Expand
  15. Veck8699
    Sep 23, 2019
    9
    The ost and the art is beautiful, the story is heartbreaking and a game to think and reflect
  16. Davix123
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Como un niño... he vuelto a la infancia con este juego cuando yo tenia la Supernintento y el Zelda... los gráficos.. su música... la historia.. gran trabajo de Nintendo. Lo que daria por ver el remaster de Legend of Zelda A link to the Past, seria la caña!!!
  17. KillingMoonZero
    Sep 23, 2019
    10
    Un pedazo de remake como la copa de un pino. Más compañías deberían aprender de cómo se hace un remake en condiciones. Junto al remake de Resident Evil 2, son los dos mejores remakes del año sin duda. Este Link's Awakening ha sido la excusa perfecta para comprarme una Switch Lite y poder sentirme otra vez como un niño. Reto conseguido, señores de Nintendo. Gran trabajo.
  18. Edswitch
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Jogo perfeito , a maior quantidade de botões, e o detector de conchas deixou o jogo maravilhoso, jogo do ano pra mim… Expand
  19. Mattaclysm
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic remake of one of the best games to have ever released on the Game Boy. There is a lot to praise in what has been accomplished in this version, however, Link's Awakening (on the Switch) does have one notable issue.

    The main issue that I had found with the game is the frame rate dips. These don't really detract    The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic remake of one of the best games to have ever released on the Game Boy. There is a lot to praise in what has been accomplished in this version, however, Link's Awakening (on the Switch) does have one notable issue.

    The main issue that I had found with the game is the frame rate dips. These don't really detract from the game in its entirety, but it does take a bit away from what I feel is an otherwise visually impressive game on the Switch. It mostly seems to happen in the open when there are non-playable characters or a number of enemies on the screen. At first I had chalked it up to loading, but after playing the game for a while, I had felt it was just due to the amount of things that seemed to be happening on the screen. That all being said, I don't feel that this is extremely detrimental to the experience, it's still a fantastic game - but it is still worth mentioning just because of the frequency that it occurs. It's just a shame.

    There are definitely more pros than there are cons, obviously, the Link's Awakening is definitely a great experience on the Switch. It took me around 12 hours to complete, never feeling disappointed the entire way through. There is a lot to explore, and a lot of unique items to play around with. I couldn't be happier with this game, it's nice to see a return to this style of Zelda.    … Expand
  20. Berke28
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz Joyconboyz
  21. SSCheetah
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Really solid title, extremely well-presented and fun to play. The dungeon maker minigame is actually a lot of fun; it's basically a puzzle-solving game that you beat by using rooms from dungeons you've already cleared plus a few specially-made ones. I was suprised by how much I liked this aspect of it. Overall cute characters, fun minigames, a well-presented world with fun combat andReally solid title, extremely well-presented and fun to play. The dungeon maker minigame is actually a lot of fun; it's basically a puzzle-solving game that you beat by using rooms from dungeons you've already cleared plus a few specially-made ones. I was suprised by how much I liked this aspect of it. Overall cute characters, fun minigames, a well-presented world with fun combat and exciting exploration; it's got everything I like in an adventure game.

    You can tell it's a third-party remake though; sometimes it's a bit rough around the edges (slow frame rate when first entering an area, no antialiasing, sometimes weird animations, motion isn't truly analogue with only 8 directions you can move). I got over that pretty quickly though and just settled in for the ride.

    Just don't compare it to Breath of the Wild (which is the best game I've ever played), since it's totally different. If you take it for what it is—a remake of a game from nearly 30 years ago—it's great. If you're not sure about the classic Zelda games as compared to BotW, check out A Link to the Past on SNES, which is now available for free on Switch if you are a Nintendo Switch Online subscriber. A Link to the Past is REALLY similar to this one. (Both games are of the same generation.)

    Overall a great experience of a classic game with all the bells and whistles of modern games (including markers the player can place on the map to help you remember to go back for things—a really really good addition!!!). Not quite perfect, but cute, fun and well worth the purchase.    … Expand
  22. pkarapan77
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Overall, great remake of the classic gameboy game. My only gripe is they kind of went overboard with the cutesy looking art style -- that and the overly ostentatious violins (really? violins?) make the repetitive overland theme even more annoying than usual.
  23. Venom_
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    An instant classic with fantastic graphics, art style, and a satisfying combat system. Link's Awakening is a must have for every Zelda fan out there. While frame rate dips are an issue right now, I would fully expect to see a near future patch released to stabilize performance.
  24. RatingYoda
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Beautiful art style and music. Keeps the classic feel of Zelda while introducing new game features. Few frame rate drops and sometimes a bit too confusing for me. Overall a great game and recommend.
  25. Ommzero
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Exelente juego, lleno de nostalgia para quienes lo jugamos en su época, mantiene sus mecánicas originales y ahora con las mejoras en switch, lo recomiendo… Expand
  26. Droplit
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Yes its a remake of a gameboy game, but the quality is up to par with A Link to the Past. Smaller scale yes. Its not like Breath of the Wild where its expansive and will give you around 100 hours of gameplay. But i argue that it has more replayability than Breath of the wild with its shorter length. The story is really great. Its simple but very effective. I love the overworld andYes its a remake of a gameboy game, but the quality is up to par with A Link to the Past. Smaller scale yes. Its not like Breath of the Wild where its expansive and will give you around 100 hours of gameplay. But i argue that it has more replayability than Breath of the wild with its shorter length. The story is really great. Its simple but very effective. I love the overworld and characters. The dungeons were really fun, the bosses were all easy but unique and fun to fight. The games content is all quality. No filler. I rather have a game with pure quality and it being 6-10 hours long, than a 30 hour game with 60% of it being quality and 40% filler. Its a worth wile adventure and worth 60$ thanks to the new graphics, quality of life fixes that it surpasses the original. The soundtrack is better than ever. The only downsides are the new chamber dungeons are just whatever, its not as expansive as Super Mario Maker buts its just okay. Theres a few framerate issues but it never drops below 30 frames so i got used to it. I hope they fix that but its definitely worth while and i think i enjoyed it better than A Link to the Past. And thats one of my top 3 zelda games. Keep in mind i never played Links Awakening for the gameboy, i tried but i couldn't get into it. But im happy this remake exists.… Expand
  27. Fulvius
    Sep 22, 2019
    0
    As a huge fan of the original, I really wanted to enjoy this game and had really high expectations.
    However, they decided to outsource the development to Grezzo, so forget the perfection you are used to get from Nintendo internal products:
    - Get ready to experience frequent, unjustified frame drops. It is so bad that at times it ruins the immersion. if Donkey Kong Country: Tropical    As a huge fan of the original, I really wanted to enjoy this game and had really high expectations.
    However, they decided to outsource the development to Grezzo, so forget the perfection you are used to get from Nintendo internal products:

    - Get ready to experience frequent, unjustified frame drops. It is so bad that at times it ruins the immersion. if Donkey Kong Country: Tropical Freeze runs at a steady 1080p/60fps there is no reason whatsoever for this game to drop from 60fps to below 30fps at every scenery load.
    - The Depth of Field effect is just horrible. There is simply not enough perspective in the game to justify any DOF, and the emulated blurred bars look hideous.
    - 720p? Seriously?

    Note: my score is a 0 not because the game sucks, but because I don't feel to give any merit to the dev team.
    They had a complete masterpiece in their hands: storyline, dungeons, maps, everything was made for them 25 years ago.
    All they had to do is make it look great (which they did, to a level) and smooth (where they failed miserably).    … Expand
  28. FacelessAngel7
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    TL;DR at bottom

    Full disclosure, Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game; not the "best" Zelda game per se but it's my personal favorite. The remake of Link's Awakening is an excellent homage to the original game. The changes, very small though they are, are welcome, bringing what was once a bland color palette with sprites that we had to use our imagination to flesh out the    TL;DR at bottom

    Full disclosure, Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game; not the "best" Zelda game per se but it's my personal favorite.

    The remake of Link's Awakening is an excellent homage to the original game. The changes, very small though they are, are welcome, bringing what was once a bland color palette with sprites that we had to use our imagination to flesh out the world into a vibrant, colorful, detailed world.

    The story and most of the dialogue are unchanged from the original/GBC re-release. It's a strange game with characters from several other Nintendo franchises making appearances. The overworld is now one continuous open world to explore but nothing in the layout has been changed right down to each blade of grass. The dungeons still follow the one screen per room design of the original game which is used to create the new mode, Dungeon Maker. Some of the dungeons have been tweaked to be more user friendly in 2019 but nothing of any significance is lost.

    Some of the changes include dedicated buttons for sword and shield, as well as the Pegasus Boots and not having to equip the Power Bracelet to life objects, similar to how the Power Glove worked in A Link to the Past. These are very welcome changes, one of my biggest complaints of the original game was opening up the menu every few seconds to swap items. This change helps eliminate a LOT of menu swapping. There are also fairy bottles now which allow you to store a fairy for later similar to the rest of the games in the series. Small changes to the dungeons were made to bring the game into the modern era, very minor changes to increase quality of life. Some heart piece locations have been moved as well.

    The most major change is obviously the graphics. The toy/toon style might not be for everyone but it is perfect for the most obscure of the Zelda titles. I've played exclusively in handheld mode so far and noticed a few hiccups in the frame rate when in the overworld, the dungeons hold a consistent frame rate. My only, ONLY complaint about the game is that the edges of the screen in the overworld are blurred. I understand the reason for the design decision given the games story but it makes the screen feel a lot smaller and feels unnecessary. It wouldn't even be an issue if there was an option to turn it off but alas there is not. This is a minor complaint and the only thing that's keeping me from giving this game a perfect 10. Maybe I'll feel different when I play it in docked mode. I'll update if that's the case.

    It's not an incredibly long game but it is a fun one and one that any fan of the Zelda series should try. The puzzles are unique and the original spawned a lot of the Zelda series staples, such as fishing, the trading sequence and Kaepora Gabora (sp?) the owl.

    I honestly haven't messed with the dungeon maker at this point, I've been too busy reliving my childhood. The game definitely feels like it belongs in 2019 with a retro twist, similar to Bloodstained.

    TL;DR
    A great remake of a classic game with welcome quality of life improvements. Definitely worth playing if you're a fan of top down Zelda games    … Expand
  29. isaac7007
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    The frame rate can be a little choppy, but as far as gameplay, story, and aesthetic goes, it’s fantastic.
  30. Collaps666
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    Отличная игра, очень приятная и позитивная, много новшеств, куча секретов, из минусов - только подлагивания при подгрузке уровней.
  31. BadPenguin
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    Nostalgia is fantastic, and this game delivers. Nothing more I could have asked for. If you loved Link to the Past you’ll fall in love with this game. Takes everything that made Link to the Past great and built on it. Sweet graphics and game mechanics.
  32. wanderlei2
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    Games from when gameplay was king instead of watching movies and occasionally pressing a button. A world of puzzles to explore and solve. Classic Zelda dungeons. A joy to play from beginning to end. A game I will pay over many times.
  33. S0urceC0de
    Sep 22, 2019
    6
    I’m a huge Zelda fan, ever since the 80’s and I was incredibly hyped about this remake. However, the initial reviews out of the gate revealed that there were frame rate drops and I thought to myself “well, how bad could it be? It’s a Zelda title after all”. After picking up the game Friday and excitedly starting the game I realized just how bad it was. It really makes the game unenjoyableI’m a huge Zelda fan, ever since the 80’s and I was incredibly hyped about this remake. However, the initial reviews out of the gate revealed that there were frame rate drops and I thought to myself “well, how bad could it be? It’s a Zelda title after all”. After picking up the game Friday and excitedly starting the game I realized just how bad it was. It really makes the game unenjoyable when everything else about the game is fantastic. It is for this fact alone that I give it a 6. If it wasn’t for this I would have no problem bumping it up to a 8. Why a 8? Well it’s a great Zelda game but not worthy of a score higher than that based off of gameplay, etc. A lot of people seem to be giving it a high score solely based on the fact it is a Zelda game which is completely off base. Honestly I enjoyed A Link Between Worlds on the 3DS a lot more than Link’s Awakening.… Expand
  34. MrDobolina
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Fantastic update to a classic Zelda. Fresh visuals and quality of life improvements make returning to Koholint island a fantastic time.
  35. willnasse
    Sep 22, 2019
    7
    This game would be a ten if it weren’t for the performance issues. The frame rate drops mentioned honestly manifest into stuttering at points and make this hard to recommend until patched.
  36. Corsaro
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    This game is splendid. I especially love the truly inspired and audio graphics. it's a shame the framerate is not as good as the rest of the game.
  37. Lukina
    Sep 22, 2019
    10
    Simply perfect Just lovely . A perfect remake. I love it. Zelda at his best.
  38. maxtor27
    Sep 22, 2019
    9
    Graphically one of the most stunning looking games on the switch. It does suffer performance hiccups here and there, but personally it isn't that bothersome for me. Gameplay wise, it's another top down Zelda. If you're not into that, you might not enjoy this game. Story and world wise, one of the best in the series. The world is filled with such strange yet charming characters, and theGraphically one of the most stunning looking games on the switch. It does suffer performance hiccups here and there, but personally it isn't that bothersome for me. Gameplay wise, it's another top down Zelda. If you're not into that, you might not enjoy this game. Story and world wise, one of the best in the series. The world is filled with such strange yet charming characters, and the island's small scale means you get attached to characters more heavily. The story, specifically the ending, leaves a heavy impact on anyone that goes through it.
    It's a must-have game for any Zelda/Nintendo fan, and anyone interested in it in the slightest.    … Expand
  39. Dilihimer
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Zelda fan here. Just picked up my copy yesterday and haven’t been able to put the Switch down. The game has great game feel all the way down to the sword swinging, great flow by adding things to do between each level (dungeon) and memorable characters from Marin to Sale. I give this a 10/10 scoring not only because of the reasons listed above, but mainly because I can’t find too muchZelda fan here. Just picked up my copy yesterday and haven’t been able to put the Switch down. The game has great game feel all the way down to the sword swinging, great flow by adding things to do between each level (dungeon) and memorable characters from Marin to Sale. I give this a 10/10 scoring not only because of the reasons listed above, but mainly because I can’t find too much that’s really wrong with it. I can understand how some people find the dungeon creating mini-game at Dampé’s Shack dissapointing, but as a replacement for the once gimmicky yet neat Game Boy Printer room, I feel it does enough. Some boss fights do feel a bit too easy, but as a 1:1 remake of a 20+ year old Game Boy game, I can understand why. Other than that, I can’t find anything bad to say about the game. If you are a fan of Zelda, especially if you haven’t played LA already on the GB version, this is a must get. If you are new to Zelda and are looking for the right one to take your first step into the franchise, I would recommend this one definitely. Maybe wait it out until it goes on sale if you are iffy on the whole $60 pricing, i’ve seen that rub some people off the wrong way.… Expand
  40. Fliff
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    Fantastic Zelda game, and just made better here with some tweaks and enhancements. Anyone saying this is a "6 hour" game is either lying or has beaten this game multiple times before. The only real issue I've run into is framerate dropping when entering new zones, otherwise this is basically Link's Awakening perfected.
  41. MSeymour1998
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    Link's Awakening DX, released in 1993 on the Game Boy Color, is my favorite Zelda game of all time. To say that I had high hopes for this remake is an understatement.
    This remake is as faithful as remakes come. It is almost completely a 1x1 remake, meaning that they change almost nothing aside from quality of life updates. What else can I say? It's gorgeous, features the same amazing    Link's Awakening DX, released in 1993 on the Game Boy Color, is my favorite Zelda game of all time. To say that I had high hopes for this remake is an understatement.
    This remake is as faithful as remakes come. It is almost completely a 1x1 remake, meaning that they change almost nothing aside from quality of life updates. What else can I say? It's gorgeous, features the same amazing soundtrack but with a breathtaking update on it. Everything I love about this game has been made prettier, cleaner, and nicer. The only reason I'm giving this a 9 instead of a 10 is because of the frame rate and graphical issues. The frame rate, for me at least, occasionally dipped below 30fps, when it should have been locked at 60fps. Furthermore, for a game that should have no problem staying locked at 720p/1080p, it often dipped far below those in docked and handheld, respectively.
    Overall, an incredible game that is perfect in every way except for technical shortcomings.    … Expand
  42. TheSeahorse
    Sep 21, 2019
    7
    Nintendo, nintendo, nintendo, why are you so good and so bad at the same time? This game is amazing, but when I pay full price for a game made by NINTENDO I expect quality. I don't want to get hit by a lag spike every time I enter a new area or by just walking around. It never dips below 15fps but it happens ALL THE TIME and it really breaks the immersion. Very disappointed with how muchNintendo, nintendo, nintendo, why are you so good and so bad at the same time? This game is amazing, but when I pay full price for a game made by NINTENDO I expect quality. I don't want to get hit by a lag spike every time I enter a new area or by just walking around. It never dips below 15fps but it happens ALL THE TIME and it really breaks the immersion. Very disappointed with how much lag is in this game. If you don't want to buy it because of that I don't blame you.

    Otherwise the game is really good, a solid 9/10 game but come on Nintendo, there can't be this much lag in a game that has toon graphics. Hoping for a patch in the coming days.    … Expand
  43. Lydell
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Best game of the year! We need more games like this 2020!! The only cons is that the game is only around 10h short! Imagine a 30-40h long game like this!!
  44. Dudefella
    Sep 21, 2019
    4
    The frame-rate issues really keep this from being an enjoyable experience. It's astounding, and an indictment of modern games journalism, that this is getting such positive reviews. I could see giving the technical issues a pass if this were a $20 game, but at $60, it's impossible to recommend this remake to anyone, even the most die-hard Zelda fan.
  45. IonMagus
    Sep 21, 2019
    8
    One of the best Zelda Games finally got the Remake it deserves. The performance is pretty awful tho and all those frame drops really hurt this otherwise beautiful Game. Why Nintendo let it release this way is beyond me. Also no D-Pad support? Thats srsly stupid
  46. greengrounds
    Sep 21, 2019
    0
    I like the new graphics but it is just a game boy game with boring fetch quests and lots of back tracking and no online features.
  47. dmorris38290
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    First off, good to see 7 Xbox fanboys have been over to lower the score. Secondly, this is one of the greatest games ever made, made better. Looks and sounds beautiful.
  48. elbuenzurdo
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    A beautiful remake of my first Zelda game, the one that made me fall in love with the franchise. Beautiful graphics, nice music, good story and gameplay.
  49. Parkkcore
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Of 2019 this is one of the best true Remasters to hit the Market. The updated Graphics remind me of A Link Between Worlds in how they make an older game feel more modern, but not so much that it takes itself too seriously. I will enjoy trying to speed-run this game!
  50. CyberRobotnix
    Sep 21, 2019
    6
    Gameplay: Simplistic like the original. Nothing wrong here. However there's one problem with the game, it's the constant LAG. How the **** Nintendo messed that one up?
    Graphics: This game genuinely looks like a Zelda fangame made in Unreal Engine 4 and released on Gamejolt which makes it look so unprofessional and many have complained about the plastic textures all over the place. Other    Gameplay: Simplistic like the original. Nothing wrong here. However there's one problem with the game, it's the constant LAG. How the **** Nintendo messed that one up?
    Graphics: This game genuinely looks like a Zelda fangame made in Unreal Engine 4 and released on Gamejolt which makes it look so unprofessional and many have complained about the plastic textures all over the place. Other than that it's not so ugly, it's actually quite a pretty game, so that's cool I guess.
    Music: I really do like the remixed tunes the game has.
    World design: Like the original, unlike the gameplay, this could have been changed a bit to meet the criterias of modern standards, this game looks like Minecraft or some voxel sandbox game and that's bad really. Nintendo could have easily made the world design as good if not better than the original by modifying all the blocky elements.

    Overall, this game gets a 6 from me, it's good.    … Expand
  51. META_1
    Sep 21, 2019
    1
    good for kids only. bad framerates. 60€ for 8hours, framerates dropping, the edges of the game are blurry. old gameplay.
  52. kare8019
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    グラフィックがフィギュア調で可愛くやってて飽きない作品でした。 フレームレートが変わるのはちょっと気になりましたがよく出来てた作品です。任天堂にはこのグラフィックで他のリメイクを作って欲しいです
  53. AlexSuprem06
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    This game is such a fantastic remake. It captures the charm that the original had but makes it in HD with a very cute art style. I highly recommend this game if you played the original links awakening or just want to experience it in HD.
  54. Darksun
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Como todos los juegos de Zelda una obra maestra no decepcionará a nadie,pura nostalgia y unos gráficos bellisimos
  55. leetl1
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    It's so amazing. A perfect remake. It feels more inspired than every Kirby game since Return to Dream Land even though it's a remake. Okay, I'm sorry I keep roasting Kirby in these reviews, but it's not fair how every Kirby game has to be one giant nostalgia factory well Mario and Zelda still feel fresh.
  56. Techbane
    Sep 21, 2019
    7
    Faithful to a fault -- except where performance is concerned. For a game that looks like it could be running on the 3DS, the fact that there are bloated loading times and frequent pronounced framedrops is utterly inexcusable, not to mention that this version of the game costs TWICE its original sticker price on the Game Boy back in 1993. You're restricted to single-speed, 8-directionalFaithful to a fault -- except where performance is concerned. For a game that looks like it could be running on the 3DS, the fact that there are bloated loading times and frequent pronounced framedrops is utterly inexcusable, not to mention that this version of the game costs TWICE its original sticker price on the Game Boy back in 1993. You're restricted to single-speed, 8-directional movement and yet aren't allowed to use the D-pad to move despite that it isn't mapped to anything else.

    That said, Link's Awakening is Link's Awakening. Aside from the issues above, it's still a fantastic game and there have been significant improvements made to the minigames and button mappings. Good experience, but the constant performance issues and "Nintendo gonna Nintendo" price point really do bring it down a few points for me.    … Expand
  57. CesarHylian
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Link's awakening y Grezzo nos enseñan como hacer un remake de un juego de más de un cuarto de siglo. Es el claro ejemplo de una muy buena actualización de gráficos (que pese a lo mejor no es del agrado al principio) siempre nos va a terminar encantando.
    Quizá su único punto negativo que le puedo encontrar ahora, es la falta de más cinemáticas épicas y al estilo de anime que nos presentan    Link's awakening y Grezzo nos enseñan como hacer un remake de un juego de más de un cuarto de siglo. Es el claro ejemplo de una muy buena actualización de gráficos (que pese a lo mejor no es del agrado al principio) siempre nos va a terminar encantando.
    Quizá su único punto negativo que le puedo encontrar ahora, es la falta de más cinemáticas épicas y al estilo de anime que nos presentan al prender la consola.    … Expand
  58. Rubes
    Sep 21, 2019
    0
    Outrageously overpriced at $60 for an 8 hour adventure and the game runs TERRIBLE! The frame rate drops are totally unacceptable and are an absolute detraction to anyone playing the game: It truly ruins the enjoyment of the game. An 8 hour adventure for the same price as Breath of the Wild which has provided me with 2000+ hours of pure jaw-dropping enjoyment? No thanks Nintendo! This gameOutrageously overpriced at $60 for an 8 hour adventure and the game runs TERRIBLE! The frame rate drops are totally unacceptable and are an absolute detraction to anyone playing the game: It truly ruins the enjoyment of the game. An 8 hour adventure for the same price as Breath of the Wild which has provided me with 2000+ hours of pure jaw-dropping enjoyment? No thanks Nintendo! This game is NOT up to Nintendo's quality and value standards and the fact that they would release a bite-sized game that is not capable of running properly on the Switch is truly shocking, disappointing and says a lot of about the philosophies happening in Kyoto right now.… Expand
  59. andres90109010
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    It’s not surprising. The Legend of Zelda had it all upon release: an epic story, a strong cinematic presentation, superb visuals and unrivalled game design.
  60. vodkaffee
    Sep 21, 2019
    7
    amazingly fun game, but why does it has 100 times more framedrops than astral chain? it makes no sense and sometimes is annoying for playing.
    EDIT: is very annoying for playing #fixLinksAwakening
  61. leche_paterna
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Nintendo este año encadena una obra maestra tras otra. Un imprescindible para todo amante de los videojuegos.
  62. grzcgc
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    It’s a incredible game with a nice history, art and fan service for Nintendo fans. But three words define this game: WOW NICE GRAPHICS!
  63. XanDuX
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    This new classic version of the Legend of Zelda game has good gameplay, great graphics and a lot of fun. Amazing.
  64. Cyrose
    Sep 21, 2019
    0
    60€ for 8hours, framerates dropping, the edges of the game are blurry...it’s a shame from Nintendo, and I’m a big fan of them. Was a big mistake to buy this game day one
  65. Everrain69
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Un juego perfecto en cuanto a mecánicas, un desarrollo magistral, unos gráficos con personalidad, una música evocadora a mas no poder, un titulo clásico que toca la perfección de las aventuras de rol.
  66. Leopow440
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Incredible game I never played the original but this game is another treat for Nintendo switch owners playing this game has put a smile on my face I love it.
  67. murderbeam
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Waves of nostalgia rolled over me as I fired it up again, doing the 'Zelda' filename trick still worked! The quality of life changes bring it into the 2010's proper - no need to equip the bracelet or boots, they're bound to their own buttons. Small changes to the boss fights add another little layer of challenge to experienced LA players (see also: old bastards) and subtle differences like the trendy game improvements just really make it feel fresh while simultaneously just like the original. Link's Awakening on the Game Boy is tied for my favorite Zelda with A Link to the Past, and this remake just joined that three way in the best way possible. I'm on my way to the fourth dungeon, finding those secret seashells, and it's like the first time all over again - the excitement, the wonder, and the MUSIC. The orchestrated music still uses elements from their original counterparts, and it's a small but impactful detail that really drew me in. I almost feel dirty giving a Zelda a 10 after Breath of the Wild got way overrated, but I'll be damned if this game isn't perfect even with some of the small flaws here and there.… Expand
  68. Mervain
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Amazingly beautiful, nonstop fun. As a filler between breath of the wild and its sequel it does the trick. Loving it
  69. bigphil0006
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    I find it funny that none of the metacritics mark it bad yet wr have some user ratings marking it 0-2. My guess it's people that are mad we got another great game. Now I did do 9/10 there are a couple small gripes such as the blur above and bottom. After awhile you really dont notice it. Sometimes the frame dips get kinda annoying but passable . Overall a real fun and very charmingI find it funny that none of the metacritics mark it bad yet wr have some user ratings marking it 0-2. My guess it's people that are mad we got another great game. Now I did do 9/10 there are a couple small gripes such as the blur above and bottom. After awhile you really dont notice it. Sometimes the frame dips get kinda annoying but passable . Overall a real fun and very charming looking game.… Expand
  70. lkkvtm
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Amazing remake of one of my favorite Zelda game, still plays great! Totally worth the price!
  71. Foler
    Sep 21, 2019
    9
    Without technical issues this game would be ten. Aside from them, perfect remake of old classic. Game full of beauty and joy.
  72. Kopfe94
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    Wahnsinns Spiel!!! Da kommt Nostalgie auf. Bestes "Remake" (wenn man das noch so nennen darf). Grafikstil finde ich super und ansonsten nur kleine Änderungen am ohnehin schon überragenden Klassiker. Wer diesen als Kind schon gespielt hat findet sich gleich wieder zurecht an den altbekannten Orten.
  73. Chezidek
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    A good example of a perfect game!
    Very addictive gameplay! Nice, cute graphics! Great music! Terrific sense of humor! Fabulous, magical game that returns to childhood and periodically notice that I smile while playing! =)
  74. titanblade
    Sep 21, 2019
    10
    I have not played that many zelda games but I can say of the one's I played this is my favorite.
    Please dont get triggered because I like this more then ocarina of time and windwaker.
    The grafics are like nothing I have seen and they are incredible. But please buy this if you haven't but I did lie about this being better than ocarina of time.
  75. LibraryGamer
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    A wonderful reimaginated game from the past. A beatiful masterpiece only available at the Nintendo system that you need to play.
  76. Aaroski
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    A picture perfect remake of the original game, like it was just updated with graphics and controls
  77. Serginius
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    El juego tiene alma propia. En su tiempo en gameboy fue una joya, hoy vuelve a serlo. Es largo, divetido y satisfactorio, gran hitoria, grandes personajes.
  78. Dannielsv7
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Perfect reimagening of a classic. It does everything that a remake should do.
  79. Zakuta64YT
    Sep 20, 2019
    8
    A great little remaster that is just nice to look at, hopefully we get some more classic remasters like this in distant future
  80. RtoTheZ
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Just play it! You will most surely enjoy the game from beginning to end thanks to the cute art style, soundtrack and puzzles.
  81. Lordbadface
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Excelente videojuego con un buen arte visual y buenas mecánicas,pero la gente dirá que es lo peor. Pero me parece un buen candidato para juego del año.
  82. Jet76
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Un placer poder disfrutar nuevamente de este juego con una visual tan fantástica. Gracias Nintendo
  83. Potasticpunda
    Sep 20, 2019
    8
    It felt like being a little child with a gameboy all again, I really loved the cinematics and the art direction, Great remaster.
  84. Flipdigital
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Recomendado para todos, no se arrepentirán, tiene gráficos increíbles y sonido perfecto.
  85. SainxtrichX
    Sep 20, 2019
    8
    Este juego es una maldita jolla. Me siento como de 10 años nuevamente. No puedo parar de jugar.
  86. Aaargh
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    The only reason I gave this game a 9/10 is because I cannot give it a score equal to BotW. This game is so much fun. The controls are excellent (didn't expect anything less), the graphics aren't taking away from the overal experience. They match perfectly with the cuteness of the game, the feel of being an accepted member of the Island and its inhabitants. I haven't finished it yet but IThe only reason I gave this game a 9/10 is because I cannot give it a score equal to BotW. This game is so much fun. The controls are excellent (didn't expect anything less), the graphics aren't taking away from the overal experience. They match perfectly with the cuteness of the game, the feel of being an accepted member of the Island and its inhabitants. I haven't finished it yet but I see myself playing this game over and over. The music adds to the atmosphere. All in all a difficult to game to pull off I think because everything works so well together. Buying the game at $60 is a tad expensive for what you get. Luckily I bought it at $50 using online vouchers and that's fair.… Expand
  87. benair3
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Epic. I feel like a child again. It’s beautiful, funny, long enough, it’s perfect.
  88. Jventurall
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Hermoso por donde se le mire, banda sonora, jugabilidad, gráficos, recomendable 100%
  89. Maucito73
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Juegazo,no solo evoca un pasado que desgraciadamente ya no existe si no que consigue por si mismo atraparnos en una aventura llena de imagenes maravillosas,melodias tan llenas de alma que duele el alma,y esto se agradece,una historia envolvente y una jugabilidad extraordinaria.pero sobre todo es Divertidisimo,mucho mas que otras mega producciones sobrevaloradas.Lo recomiendo.
  90. Djalminha
    Sep 20, 2019
    6
    Buen juego,cumple no mucho mas. Se lo sobrevalora demasiado por lo que significa aunque el juego no ofrece mucho
  91. ChefoMaestro
    Sep 20, 2019
    9
    The littles frames drops are the only thing that make me not give it the perfect rate
    They are not that annoying and are no so frequent, but sometimes they can bother a little bit
  92. Jose112
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Wow no tengo palabras para describir lo maravilloso que es este juego graficamente es in presionante es hermoso esta clase de juegos demuestra que nintendo es unico que Ellos si seven lo que sus fan quieren amigos yo les recomiendo que se conpren una Nintendo switch si no la tienen merese mucho la pena es magia puro
  93. doodlerman
    Sep 20, 2019
    8
    Its greatness is undeniable. The visuals, controls, the many improvements to the original... all great. Truth be told, this is a 10/10 game, but at $60, they're asking for too much. Even with everything I love, there's a constant lingering thought in the back of my head about how much I spent on it. At most, this should be at most a $40 game. Link's Awakening has always been one of myIts greatness is undeniable. The visuals, controls, the many improvements to the original... all great. Truth be told, this is a 10/10 game, but at $60, they're asking for too much. Even with everything I love, there's a constant lingering thought in the back of my head about how much I spent on it. At most, this should be at most a $40 game. Link's Awakening has always been one of my favorite games, but even with the impressive upgrades, it's still one of the smaller Zelda titles - and you're certainly not getting anything as innovative as Breath of the Wild or Super Mario Odyssey here, even with the new dungeon making feature.

    Wait for a discount, and you'll be much happier with this purchase.    … Expand
  94. Magnaxeon
    Sep 20, 2019
    9
    This is how you male a remake ! a little framedrops but nothing that could broke the game, i bet a future update will fix it ! master piece ! the sound ingenerie is awesome!
  95. LanceLabrin
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    Una hermosura de video juego. Nada de bajones de frame en la memoria de consola fluido. Me recuerda mucho al original, pero tiene un enorme encanto que lo hace unico..
  96. Banjoair
    Sep 20, 2019
    9
    Game is great with a new reimagining. Just the price is all that is a concern.
  97. VsaucePuppet
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    I have been incredibly excited for this new remake for months, so I was hoping it would live up to my expectations. And I am beyond excited to say that this is a remake worth buying! As a pretty big fan of the original 1993 release, I was hoping that this would bring back all the fun memories I had with the original. I have loved exploring the newly polished island and beating all theI have been incredibly excited for this new remake for months, so I was hoping it would live up to my expectations. And I am beyond excited to say that this is a remake worth buying! As a pretty big fan of the original 1993 release, I was hoping that this would bring back all the fun memories I had with the original. I have loved exploring the newly polished island and beating all the dungeons along the way! The graphics and musical score are the main highlights for me.

    The only problem would be the framerate drops, but I am honestly fine with it. The price point is a problem for some, but most people have never played the original, so this is a whole new experience for them. If people want to use virtual console or emulate, that’s up to them. But I would highly recommend buying the new 2019 version due to more content and a fresher experience!

    Overall, I’d give it a 9.6/10 due to its fun design and brilliance all around    … Expand
  98. Nincel
    Sep 20, 2019
    1
    It’s trash, total cash grab by Nintendo, runs horribly with terrible frame drops and they have the nerve to sell a 6 hour half assed game boy port for $60. I gave it a 1 because they triggered my nostalgia enough to trick me into buying it but I would return it if I could.
  99. Enekkekekeekke
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Judge the game is the only one that has the right thing for the rest of the world and its amazing… Expand
  100. JuanpSage
    Sep 20, 2019
    10
    The perfect remake, for a perfect game like Zelda: Link's awakening.

    * Music: Outstanding 10/10 - All pieces are orchestral gems, perfectly worked.
    * Graphics: Perfect Beauty 10/10 - The cenital view is like the original game. But that beautiful graphics... The water is remarkable.
    * Playability: Immersive 10/10 - Arround 20 hs of lifespan of enjoyable and immersive experience.
Page:

Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Best Switch Game of 2019
5
#5 Most Discussed Switch Game of 2019

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 111 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 108 out of 111
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 111
  3. Negative: 0 out of 111
  1. Nintendo Force Magazine
    Apr 29, 2020
    95
    I can only hope that its sales success will lead to a patch that fixes the framerate dips, and more importantly, the development of more Zelda games in this style. [Issue #43 – November/December 2019, p. 10SH]
  2. Gamers Heroes
    Jan 2, 2020
    85
    If you need a nostalgia trip or haven’t played Link’s Awakening before, then you won’t be disappointed with this release. Just note that it is a bit more bite-sized when compared to more recent entries in the series.
    Read full review
  3. Game World Navigator Magazine
    Dec 6, 2019
    86
    Awakening’s world is much smaller than Breath of the Wild’s Hyrule. But within the island’s depths lies something that was missing from the last game – eight difficult, multi-layered dungeons, each with its own theme, traps and puzzles. [Issue#241, p.66]
See all critic reviews »