The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening vs The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
Link's Awakening follows the iconic hero as he washes ashore on Koholint Island, a dreamlike world filled with puzzles, quirky characters, and hidden secrets. Players explore dungeons, solve riddles, and collect instruments to awaken the Wind Fish and return home. The game blends classic action-adventure gameplay with charming retro graphics, offering a nostalgic yet fresh experience for both new and veteran players.
Link's Awakening DX is a lovingly enhanced remake of the beloved Game Boy Color classic, bringing the whimsical island of Koholint to modern screens with full color graphics and additional content. The game retains the original's charming exploration, clever puzzles, and memorable soundtrack while adding new dungeons, items, and a secret dungeon for extra challenge. Designed for a single-player experience, this title blends action, adventure, and fantasy elements, making it an accessible yet deep journey for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series. Its timeless gameplay and thoughtful updates ensure it remains a standout entry in the Zelda franchise.
- Engaging puzzles and exploration
- Memorable retro aesthetic
- Rich soundtrack enhances immersion
- Replay value with hidden secrets
- Stunning color overhaul of the original game
- Additional dungeons and items increase replay value
- Touchscreen-friendly UI on Switch
- Faithful to the classic Zelda formula
- Limited combat depth compared to modern titles
- No multiplayer options
- Original Game Boy graphics may feel dated to some
- Limited to Nintendo Switch, no PC version
- Some players miss the original's simplicity
- No multiplayer or co‑op options
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Alternatives to The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX
View all →A timeless adventure where a young hero awakens on a mysterious island.
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The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth versions cost $59.99, but Link's Awakening DX adds color graphics, new dungeons, touchscreen UI and hints, while the original keeps the classic Game Boy look and soundtrack.
Key differences
- •DX features full‑color graphics and remastered music; original remains monochrome with original audio.
- •DX adds two brand‑new dungeons, six hidden items, and a secret Color Dungeon for extra replay.
- •DX supports Switch touchscreen navigation and a save‑anywhere system; original uses a seamless save but no touchscreen.
- •DX includes an integrated hint system; the original offers no built‑in hints.
Gameplay & fun factor
DX adds new dungeons, items, and a hint system, expanding puzzle variety beyond the original.
Platform availability
Original does not specify a platform limit, while DX is limited to Nintendo Switch.
Price & value
Both are priced identically at $59.99, offering comparable monetary cost.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only with no multiplayer or co‑op options.
Content & replayability
DX includes extra dungeons, hidden items, a secret Color Dungeon, and a hint system, boosting replay value.
Difficulty & accessibility
DX’s save‑anywhere and optional hint system make it more accessible than the original.
Graphics & performance
DX upgrades to full‑color graphics and higher‑fidelity remastered music, while the original stays in Game Boy monochrome.
Choose The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening if…
Purists seeking the authentic 1993 Game Boy experience and original aesthetic.
Choose The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX if…
Switch owners who want modern visuals, extra puzzles, and easier progression.
Common questions
Do both versions cost the same?
Yes, each has an MSRP of $59.99.
Which version has more content?
DX adds two new dungeons, six hidden items, and a secret Color Dungeon, increasing total content.
Can I play either version on PC?
DX is limited to Nintendo Switch; the platform for the original is not specified.