Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987) | Game Boy Advance Video Game
Explore Zelda II: The Adventure of Link (1987), the unique Zelda sequel that combines side-scrolling action, RPG leveling, magic spells, and challenging combat in a memorable Nintendo adventure.
Game Intro
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is one of the most unusual entries in Nintendo's long-running Legend of Zelda series. Released in 1987, it took a very different approach from the original game by blending action-platforming with role-playing mechanics. Instead of focusing entirely on top-down exploration, the game switches between an overworld map and side-scrolling action stages, creating an experience that feels distinct from almost every other Zelda title.
The story takes place several years after the events of the first game. Link discovers that Princess Zelda has been placed under a mysterious sleeping spell and can only be awakened by obtaining the Triforce of Courage. To break the curse, he must travel across the kingdom of Hyrule, explore dangerous palaces, defeat powerful enemies, and uncover secrets hidden throughout the land.
While Zelda II is often considered one of the series' most challenging adventures, it has earned a dedicated following thanks to its unique combat system, character progression mechanics, and rewarding sense of exploration.
How to Play
Players guide Link across a large overworld map where towns, caves, forests, deserts, and palaces can be discovered. Traveling on the map may trigger random enemy encounters, leading to side-scrolling combat sections where battles take place in real time.
Unlike most Zelda games, Link gains experience points by defeating enemies. As experience accumulates, players can improve Link's Attack, Magic, and Life attributes, making combat and exploration more manageable as the adventure progresses.
Throughout the journey, Link learns powerful magic spells from wise men found in villages. These spells provide various abilities, including healing, enhanced defense, and access to previously unreachable areas. Exploring every town and speaking with local residents often reveals useful hints, hidden secrets, and important objectives.
The game's combat requires careful timing and positioning. Players can attack high or low, block incoming strikes with their shield, and learn advanced techniques that become essential when facing stronger enemies and palace bosses.
Controls
Basic Controls
- D-Pad or Arrow Keys – Move Link left, right, up, or down
- A Button or Z Key – Jump
- B Button or X Key – Attack with Link's sword
- Start Button – Open status and magic menu
- Select Button – Access secondary menu functions
Touch Devices Controls
You can use onscreen trontrols in touch devices like android mobile, applie phone, iPhone, tablet, iPad and other touch support devices
Combat Tips
- Use high and low attacks to target different enemy positions.
- Raise your shield at the right moment to block incoming attacks.
- Manage magic points carefully, especially during palace exploration.
- Defeating enemies consistently is the fastest way to level up Link's abilities.
Final Thoughts
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link remains one of the boldest experiments in the Zelda franchise. Its mix of side-scrolling action, RPG progression, and challenging sword combat makes it stand apart from both its predecessor and the games that followed. Although its difficulty can be demanding, players willing to master its systems will find a rewarding adventure filled with memorable battles, exploration, and classic Nintendo design.
