Link
The playable hero who explores Hyrule, gathers equipment, and opposes Ganon and Vaati.
Documented for this version
D-pad | Move Link or the selected character |
|---|---|
B | Use the sword |
A | Use the equipped item or interact with context-sensitive objects |
L | Use the assigned left-shoulder action, such as lifting or pulling in the main adventure |
R | Use the assigned right-shoulder action, including dashing or context-sensitive actions |
Start | Open the status or pause screen |
Select | Open the map or switch the displayed information |
Controls can vary by mode and context.
Four Swords requires linked systems for multiplayer.
How it plays
A Link to the Past is a top-down action-adventure divided between Hyrule and the Dark World. Link explores interconnected areas, enters dungeons, defeats enemies, solves puzzles, and collects weapons, items, heart containers, and medallions to unlock new routes and defeat bosses.
Four Swords is a separate multiplayer adventure built around short stages. Players cooperate to clear rooms, but compete for rupees and the highest score. Each stage provides items and puzzles that encourage positioning, timing, and coordination.
Plan your run
Explore thoroughly before forcing progress. New items often solve puzzles in earlier areas and open routes through both worlds.
In dungeons, mark locked doors and inaccessible objects mentally, then return after collecting the relevant item. In Four Swords, share tasks when solving puzzles but watch the rupee score when a stage rewards competition.
Meet the cast
The playable hero who explores Hyrule, gathers equipment, and opposes Ganon and Vaati.
Hyrule’s princess, whose rescue and protection are central to the main adventure.
The principal villain of A Link to the Past and the ruler of the Dark World.
The wind sorcerer and principal antagonist of Four Swords.
Documented inputs
Documented unlockThe Four Swords content is best experienced with multiplayer and cannot deliver the same experience in single-player mode.
Before you begin
Save frequently, especially before entering a dungeon or attempting a difficult boss.
Use the map and item screen to check unexplored routes and available equipment.
Four Swords requires compatible linked Game Boy Advance systems and additional copies or hardware as applicable.
The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past & Four Swords combines a Game Boy Advance adaptation of Nintendo’s acclaimed Super NES action-adventure with a new multiplayer-focused adventure. Nintendo and Capcom developed the package for the handheld. The main campaign follows Link as he explores Hyrule and the Dark World, solves environmental puzzles, gathers equipment, and confronts Ganon. Four Swords adds competitive and cooperative dungeon challenges for two to four players using linked Game Boy Advance systems. The release was well received for preserving the original adventure while adding useful handheld features and a substantial multiplayer mode, although Four Swords requires additional hardware and players.
Catalog entry maintained by EmuGamers Editorial Team
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