By Michelle Lynn Tackett
Few things bring a smile to my face like a top/down Zelda game. The art style, enemies and dungeons bring back memories. That’s why I was excited when I saw Link’s Awakening trailer. Is this a legendary remake? Let’s find out.
Graphics
They are gorgeous and adorable. You will hug your Switch the whole time! The textures, lighting, and colors are fantastic. Some people talk about the frame rate dropping, such as when the game changes from one screen to the next, but I didn’t experience that. Grizzo did a great job with the graphics. Just because it looks cute, doesn’t mean it’s not a powerhouse. The animations are fluid. This is the best looking game on the Switch until Luigi’s Mansion 3 comes out.
Gameplay
There is nothing groundbreaking here. It’s a typical top/down Zelda game. That’s fine with me. Link gets the master-sword, Hylian shield, bombs, arrows, and more. Because of the extra buttons on the Switch controller, you don’t have to keep removing items. You can use more than one at a time. This is a major upgrade over the original. There are no major changes to the game-play, so if you’ve played any top/down Zelda games before, you know what to expect. Lots of post-game content including a colored dungeon, and a dungeon maker.
Music
The updated music is a delight to the ears! The remastered orchestras and strings give more power to the music. Plus, Ballad of the Wind Fish has lyrics! They will send chills up your spine.
Story
Without giving away anything for those who haven’t played Link’s Awakening. All I will say is Link wakes up on an island inhabited by strange creatures and likable characters. He tries to find a way off the island. How does he do that? Play the game to find out.
Flaws
There are a few flaws in the game. It’s not BOTW in size, but not every game is. The game does end a little abruptly, so that’s one area I would change. The biggest flaw is the Dungeon creator. It’s not Mario Maker 2.
Verdict: It’s a top/down Zelda Game, that’s all there is to say. The dungeons are great graphics are adorable and the gameplay is top-notch. Is this worth sixty bucks? Absolutely!
Grade: 4 Stars, a must-own adventure that plays wonderfully on the Switch.
Photo Courtesy of: https://www.nintendo.co.uk/Games/Nintendo-Switch/The-Legend-of-Zelda-Link-s-Awakening-1514327.html