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A Link Between Worlds is an action-adventure game for the Nintendo 3DS. It takes place several years after A Link to the Past and features a new and different storyline and setting that utilizes many elements from its successor. Players take control of series protagonist Link as he navigates two different worlds simultaneously: Hyrule, which is similar to how it is depicted in A Link to the Past, and Lorule, where many classic dungeon items have obscure origins.
The Storyline
A Link Between Worlds takes place several years after the events of The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. After being told that he cannot leave his house without being accompanied by a close person, Link discovers a new inter-dimensional portal in his basement.
Upon venturing into this mysterious new world and defeating the evil wizard Yuga, who had turned the former princess of Hyrule into a painting, Link learns from an apparition of Princess Zelda that she was kidnapped and taken to another world. After Yuga turns Link into a painting and takes him to his lair, the latter manages to free himself by transforming into a drawing on a touch-activated moving platform.
Upon acquiring a sword in this Dark World, Link is able to travel back and forth between the two worlds. He eventually manages to rescue Zelda from Yuga’s fortress.
The Gameplay
A Link Between Worlds allows players to complete dungeons in any order they desire. Before entering one, however, players must find its map in another location of Hyrule. Each dungeon contains a new item, such as the Boomerang or the fire-generating hammer, which Link can make use of inside or outside of dungeons.
As opposed to using rechargeable hearts to recover health during a fight, players collect and store their health in the form of potions from defeated enemies. In addition to an extra heart container, players can increase their total health by finding pieces of heart scattered throughout the land, which also yield a significant amount of rupees when sold.
The existence of magic pots that contains either an item or rupees makes it possible to obtain rupees without cutting grass. Players can also use these items and pots to decorate their houses. The Lost Woods has been replaced by the Deep Woods, which contains vertically-oriented trees that must be climbed to proceed.
A return of the Spin Attack technique is accompanied by special types of weapons and clothing, such as Pegasus Boots for dashing or an upgraded Fierce Deity Mask for taking out enemies handily. The game also allows players to merge certain items into others using a special item obtained from Ravio to create new ones.
The world is separated into different areas, the central one being Hyrule Castle. These areas are connected by a large number of secret passages that must be discovered and unlocked in order to advance within the game.
Players can also rent or buy items from Ravio’s Shop, which replaces Tingle’s services from the original game. They are largely identical except for renting items is cheaper than buying them. Ravio does not set up shop in every area, requiring players to search for him before they can rent or buy any item he offers.
Releases
The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds is available for Nintendo 3DS. It was released in 2013. In the series of Zelda games, it’s the seventh chronologically, but the third in order of release.
A Link Between Worlds received critical acclaim upon its release. Critics praised its fresh approach to the Zelda formula and noted the similarities between this game and A Link to the Past. The game sold almost four million units in the first 6 months, making it one of the best-selling Nintendo 3DS games to date.
Notable Bosses and Battles
Tentalus is an ancient sea monster that Link encounters in the sands of the Gerudo Desert. Its eye, vulnerable when open, must be shot with a bow to blind it before it can be harmed.
Armos Knights are stone statues that come to life at night due to Yuga’s magic, taking on their more familiar appearance from A Link to the Past. They patrol their area and will shoot arrows if Link strays too close, requiring him to use bombs or a bow to destroy them.
Ghoma is the monstrous spider queen of the Dead Man’s Dump. She uses her web attacks as well as her own fangs and legs in battle, attacking with such ferocity that she can kill Link in a single hit.
Ghirahim is the self-proclaimed Demon Lord and leader of the monsters created by Yuga. He waits at the end of the game’s first dungeon, intending to stop Link from interrupting his master’s plans. Ghirahim fights with swordsmanship as well as magic and will attempt to teleport behind Link before attacking.
Zant is an evil king who usurped the throne of the Twilight Realm, kidnapping Midna and turning her into his personal imp servant. He turns into a spider-like monster in battle, throwing energy balls and summoning enemies that damage Link on contact.
Ganon is the Demon King who rules the Dark World in A Link to the Past. He is fought at the end of this game’s first trial, using his Trident to hurl fireballs and summon enemies that damage Link on contact.
Gohdan is a giant mechanical boss who serves as the final challenge of Tower of the Gods. It attacks with its fists, fires laser beams, and even sprouts wings to attack Link directly. The defeat of Gohdan allows Link entrance to the Wind Temple.
Notable Weapons and Clothing
In A Link Between Worlds, Link can now merge two objects to create new ones, giving him access to every item in the game with only three items. His sword allows him to cling to magnetic surfaces, while his bow lets him fire multiple arrows at once. Among the new items are the Gust Jar for blowing out fires and a device that transforms Link into a painting, allowing him to walk on walls and stand in front of spikes without harm.
The Sand Rod allows Link to create pillars of sand that can be used to lift heavy objects such as rocks and boulders, or even other people. It also lets him instantly dry up quicksand and temporarily activates certain machines. The Ice Rod creates ice blocks that can be used to put out flames, freeze enemies in place, or create platforms in water. The Thunder Rod emits a small ball of electricity that can activate old mechanisms and stun electric foes.
In the series’ first appearance on Wii U, Link’s traditional green tunic has been replaced with a blue one based off his outfit from The Wind Waker. His sword, shield, and bow are identical to those he had in A Link Between Worlds, but his bombs now resemble the variety found in The Legend of Zelda.
Notable Dungeons and Quests
As with any Zelda game, A Link Between Worlds is filled with dungeons, quests, and side quests. Here are just a few that you’ll want to explore.
Lakebed Temple
Lakebed Temple is an ancient ruin located deep within Lanayru Desert that was once part of Hyrule’s water supply system. It features suits of mechanical armor that attack Link as well as a maze-like layout.
Zora’s Domain
Zora’s Domain is a large castle located underwater off the coast of Hyrule, guarded by Prince Ralis and his Zora warriors. The domain acts as both a village and a sanctuary for the Zoras, who had been driven from their homes by Ganondorf’s forces before Link restores it to its former glory.
Temple of Time
The Temple of Time is an ancient ruin located in the Faron region of Hyrule. It contains trial rooms where Link must defeat all enemies without taking damage or using any items to obtain its Master Sword, which allows him to travel back and forth between the past and future.
Village of the Blue Maiden
Village of the Blue Maiden is a town on Mercay Island near The Wind Waker’s Hyrule that Link rescues from a barrage of cannonballs fired by the Helmaroc King. The villagers help him recover a stolen item and give him clues as to where he should travel next.
Hylian Homeowner
The Hylian Homeowner is a side quest in which Link helps a homeowner who has been robbed. He must track down a thief who has stolen a Cucco and help him find his missing dog. Link is rewarded with three chests that contain rare items, but the homeowner leaves in search of more treasure before he can claim them.
Rabbitland Rescue
Rabbitland Rescue is another side quest received on Windfall Island. Link helps a young woman named Maggie find and return a little girl’s missing bunny to her. In exchange, Maggie promises to help Link find someone who can help him reach Dragon Roost Island.
Lynna City Guards
Lynna City Guards is yet another side quest found on Rolling Ridge in Labrynna from Oracle of Ages. Here, Link helps two guards who are in love with each other after their leaders order them to stop seeing each other. Link must acquire a note from one of the guards revealing their romance, allowing him to reach Horon Village without trouble.
Alternatives
If you enjoyed A Link Between Worlds, you’ll definitely want to check out some of these other games.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D
Ocarina of Time 3D takes advantage of the 3DS’s enhanced graphics and updated control system to give players a whole new way to experience one of the best games ever made.
The Wind Waker HD
The Wind Waker HD is a remake of the GameCube classic featuring improved visuals, easier sailing, and other features that make the game even more enjoyable than before.
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is the only action RPG in the series. Like A Link Between Worlds, it has an improved second quest that adds new dungeons and side quests that make for a completely different experience than the original game offered.
The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword
Skyward Sword takes advantage of the Wii’s motion controls to give players a truly unique experience. While it requires some getting used to, Skyward Sword has been widely praised for its innovative gameplay and impressive visuals.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild is an open-world action RPG that takes place in a massive world full of challenges and enemy encampments just waiting to be explored. Link has a variety of weapons and items at his disposal, but he’ll have to constantly gather food and supplies to survive in the harsh environment.
The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD
Twilight Princess HD is a remastering of the GameCube adventure that follows a wolf who must restore balance to two worlds. The game features updated visuals and gameplay that make it a worthwhile purchase for anyone who skipped out on the original release.
FAQ
If you’re not familiar with A Link Between Worlds, these frequently asked questions may help.
Question: What is A Link Between Worlds?
Answer: A Link Between Worlds is the direct sequel to The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past. It’s set in the same world as its predecessor and has many of the same gameplay elements.
Question: Where can I Learn more About A Link Between Worlds?
Answer: You can discover more information about all things involving A Link Between Worlds on the official Nintendo website.
Question: Is this Game Available for Mobile Devices?
Answer: A Link Between Worlds is exclusively available on Nintendo 3DS and 2DS systems. It is not available for any mobile operating system.
Question: Do I Have to Play A Link to the Past Before Playing A Link Between Worlds?
Answer: While it helps, you don’t have to play A Link to the Past before playing A Link Between Worlds. However, you should be aware that both games share a similar story and setting.
Question: Is this Game Available on Wii U?
Answer: A Link Between Worlds is exclusively available for Nintendo 3DS and 2DS systems. It is not available for any other console or operating system.
Final Thoughts
A Link Between Worlds is an amazing game that can be enjoyed by longtime Zelda fans and new players alike. If you haven’t had the chance to check it out yet, now is definitely your chance!
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