The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX vs The Legend of Zelda
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.
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.
The Legend of Zelda is a pioneering action-adventure game that introduced players to the vast kingdom of Hyrule. As Link, you explore dungeons, solve puzzles, and battle enemies in a timeless fantasy world. Its open-world design, memorable music, and innovative gameplay set the standard for future adventure titles, making it a beloved classic for generations of gamers.
- 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
- Groundbreaking open-world design
- Timeless music and atmosphere
- Rich variety of items and upgrades
- Challenging yet fair puzzles
- Limited to Nintendo Switch, no PC version
- Some players miss the original's simplicity
- No multiplayer or co‑op options
- Limited controls by modern standards
- Sparse save system
- Pixelated graphics may not appeal to all
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX
View all →
A timeless adventure where a young hero awakens on a mysterious island.
Classic 2D adventure that defines the action‑puzzle genre
Control the seasons to save Holodrum in this classic adventure.
A tiny hero embarks on a big adventure to save Hyrule’s smallest citizens.
Alternatives to The Legend of Zelda
View all →
A classic side‑scrolling action‑RPG that continues Link’s epic quest
A timeless adventure that defines 3D action‑puzzle gaming
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataBoth titles cost the same, but the original Zelda offers a larger, open‑world adventure, while Link's Awakening DX adds color, extra dungeons, and modern conveniences on Switch.
Key differences
- •World size: Original Zelda features a large, interconnected open world; Link's Awakening DX is a smaller, island‑based map.
- •Graphics: Original uses pixelated 1986 graphics; DX upgrades to full‑color, higher‑fidelity visuals.
- •Additional content: DX adds two new dungeons, six hidden items, a Color Dungeon, and save‑anywhere functionality.
- •Platform: Original runs on legacy hardware (original release) and can be emulated; DX is exclusive to Nintendo Switch.
- •Controls & UI: DX supports touchscreen navigation; original has limited modern controls.
Gameplay & fun factor
Original offers expansive open‑world exploration and varied dungeons, providing broader gameplay variety.
Platform availability
DX is available on modern Nintendo Switch, whereas the original is limited to legacy hardware.
Price & value
Both are priced at $59.99, offering comparable monetary cost.
Multiplayer / co‑op
Both are single‑player only; no multiplayer options in either title.
Content & replayability
DX adds two new dungeons, extra items, a secret Color Dungeon, and a hint system, boosting replay value.
Difficulty & accessibility
DX includes save‑anywhere and touchscreen UI, making progress easier than the original's sparse save system.
Graphics & performance
DX features full‑color graphics and remastered music, whereas the original uses pixelated 1986 graphics.
Choose The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX if…
Players who want a polished, Switch‑ready experience with extra dungeons and easier saving.
Choose The Legend of Zelda if…
Players who prioritize a vast open world and classic adventure over modern conveniences.
Common questions
Do both games cost the same?
Yes, each has an MSRP of $59.99.
Which version is easier to pick up and continue playing?
Link's Awakening DX offers save‑anywhere and touchscreen navigation, making it more accessible.
Is there any multiplayer option in either title?
No, both games are single‑player only.