Link
The young hero controlled by the player. He explores Hyrule, collects equipment, and fights to recover the Triforce of Wisdom.
Documented for this version
Which controls does this version use?
Actions
D-pad | Move Link |
|---|---|
A | Use the sword A sword beam is produced when Link has full health. |
B | Use the currently equipped secondary item The selected item is changed on the inventory screen. |
Start | Open the inventory and status screen |
Select | Switch between inventory screen pages |
How it plays
How does The Legend of Zelda play?
Link views Hyrule from an overhead perspective and moves between connected screen-sized areas. The main objective is to locate eight pieces of the Triforce of Wisdom in dungeons, defeat their guardians, and enter Death Mountain to confront Ganon.
Players attack with a sword and use secondary items such as bombs, a boomerang, a bow, and magical rods. Dungeons contain locked rooms, map and compass items, special equipment, and bosses. Progress depends on exploration, finding hidden entrances, purchasing supplies, and learning enemy patterns.
Plan your run
What is the best way to play The Legend of Zelda?
Explore methodically rather than following a fixed route. Mark suspicious walls, burnable bushes, and accessible caves, since many upgrades and heart containers are hidden in the overworld.
Use the shield and sword carefully, and avoid entering difficult dungeons before obtaining useful equipment. In dungeons, find the map, compass, and item first when possible, then use bombs and the boomerang to control groups of enemies.
- Buy the Blue Ring and Heart Containers when affordable.
- Keep a potion ready before major dungeon bosses.
- Save often after obtaining important items or defeating a dungeon boss.
Meet the cast
Who are the key characters?
Princess Zelda
The princess of Hyrule, who divides the Triforce of Wisdom before Ganon captures her.
Ganon
The demon king and principal antagonist. He possesses the Triforce of Power and rules from Death Mountain.
Impa
Zelda’s nurse and the character who seeks help for the threatened kingdom in the game’s opening story.
Documented inputs
What cheats and unlocks are documented?
Documented unlockCompleting the first quest unlocks the more difficult Second Quest when starting a new game.
Before you begin
What should you know before playing?
- 1
Search every overworld screen for caves, stairways, and burnable bushes.
- 2
The sword’s ranged beam is useful while Link has full health.
- 3
The Recorder can reveal important dungeon entrances and warp locations.
Editorial context
What do players highlight?
A landmark NES adventure remembered for its exploration, secrets, and unusually open progression.
Its combat and dungeon layouts can feel cryptic, but that uncertainty is part of the original discovery-focused design.
Community discussion
What are players saying? 0