I always love how raw and unfiltered and passionate Johnny is whenever he talks about games. Such an amazing gaming veteran who just truly loves what he talks about. Keep up the good stuff, Johnny!
I'm glad you enjoyed this game. I have been watching this show since I was 8 years old and now I'm in university and use your show as a way to remember to smile and enjoy my life. Thank you for everything you do. I look at your show nostalgically like you look at something like macross or Zelda 1. You and Rob got me through some tough times as a kid. Thank you John! I really appreciate it.
I spent so much time with this back in 1993 I seem to be walking through this new version pretty fast. It’s amazing how much I’ve remembered after all these years.
@@jcnba28 Given they have made the engine and so many assets, they could remake zero mission/super/fusion fairly easily on switch, along with samus returns :)
I gotta agree with you, 100%, this game has etched itself as my game of the year (so far) and as one of the my top 5 favorite Zelda games of all time. I feel so compelled to replay and I remember thinking to myself when I was at the end of it, that I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to walk around and just take it all in one last time. The soundtrack, the nostalgia, the kooky cameos, the non-hand-holding & linear focus of the original Zelda games reimagined in beautiful graphics. The ending had me nearly in tears and I got this sense of completion. I knew when the credits rolled that I’ll never forget this game and the time I had with it. THIS GAME IS 100% AMAZING AND PERFECTION. I regret never playing the DX or original version. The frame drops don’t impact gameplay at all whatsoever. You’ll notice it, but it won’t finish the gameplay. 🙏🏻
I just turned 40. I remember playing this as a kid when it was new. I don't know why I wasn't more into it. It's exactly the kind of game I would play back then and I went crazy for A Link to the Past. I think back then I played a lot more fighting games (1993-1996), so I was probably too obsessed with Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter 2 Turbo that I only played through this once and didn't really give it its due.
KMƒÐM_KîÐ2Ø00™ same here I’m 41 and remember getting this game and only playing and beating it once then never played it again, I think because I was so heavily into Nintendo and super Nintendo. This new version is definitely something special even if you’re not a Zelda fan it’s a no brainer purchase.
luKe I already beat it! When playing BOTW I miss that formula where rupees are everywhere by cutting the grass and the dungeon collecting progression. Links Awakening has that and it’s a breath of fresh air! It’s like “Wind Waker”and “Twilight Princess” ,but a lot more like “Majora’s Mask” which I loved! I have never played this game until now and am so glad I did! Playing the game especially hearing the music of the owl makes you feel like you’re living in the 90s! EPIC GAME!!👍👍👍
I have loved your channel for a long time, but have never commented. However, I had to comment on this video, because I love this game so much. Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game of all time!!! It was the first Zelda I ever played, and I played it on a GameBoy that I had to save up for and buy when I was a kid; and the Gameboy came with Link's Awakening and Mario Six Golden Coins. When I first tried Link's Awakening I hated it, because I had never played a game like this before, and I had no clue on how to get out of the first house. So I set it down, and came back months later to try it out. It took me months upon months to beat. Every time I progressed I hit another roadblock on a puzzle that would have me stumped. BUT once I beat it, I loved it so much it became my most played game. I would literally play through, beat it, play through it again, finish it again, and then start again. I loved it, and I love the Switch version!!! BTW I'm glad they kept the alternate ending in the game. If you haven't achieved it, you should. It will melt your heart.
Length should never really be an issue sometimes. A good short game can be a masterpiece as compared to a lengthy long overdrawn game. Dont get me wrong, I love my AAA legnthy adventures... But I love my short simple adventures just as much if not often more-so. At least in those short adventures I actually do get around to beating the game before getting burned out on it c_c I still have not beat Skyrim...
Link's Awakening has always been my favorite Zelda game and this remake really reinforced that. The ending would always get to me, but the redone music at the end really put it over the top. During the credits when the music goes to the Game Boy version for just a bit really blindsided me and I loved it. Plus, seeing Marin at the end in the anime style is a nice bonus. I'm assuming that's only if you beat the game with no deaths like in the original. Anyway, fantastic remake. Glad you liked it as much as I did.
It's so much fun to hear you talk about games, Johnny. It never gets old. As for Link's Awakening, it has reminded me how much I love the franchise's old school roots. I honestly am not much into the 3D games (maybe if they ever get remade? time will tell) but this game has been a blessing and completely messed up my top 5 of 2019, lol.
I love genuine channels such as this. I love this game too. I played it first in that Zelda green Game n Watch but I didn’t get to finish. I did finish it in the Switch and I had a blast. We’re on a vacation in Arizona when we got it and that was a great trip for me too so this game will forever be etched in my memory.
Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game and in my Top 5 favorite games ever. I still own my original copies the original game and DX. I also picked up the Japanese original copy and was given a German version of DX years ago. Also got a English translation of The Frog for Whom the Bell Tolls. I've loved Link's Awakening since it came out.
I watched the first half at work today 6 dungeons in, just beat it and finished this video. What an evening! love your enthusiasm and passion for these games man
Damn... I'm anxious to hear your final thoughts on the game, but I can't hear any spoilers. This is my first time playing this particular story line, and I'm only 25%-30% through at this point. I'll have to come back to this video next week... For me personally, I absolutely love this game! I've always preferred the top down format for Zelda, with Zelda III being one of my personal Favorites. I loved the open world Breath of the Wild as well, but for me it's too easy to get distracted from the main story line in the more open world games.
I loved Link's Awakening as a kid, and I'm honestly kind of happy and surprised to hear veteran gamers talking about the vagueness/difficulty. I was stuck for sooooooooooooooooo long because I couldn't figure out how to get into the second dungeon. I eventually saved up my money and my dad's friend who owned a bookstore ordered the game guide (the Newstand in Clemson, SC, now closed sadly).
I was going to hold off on this because a few years ago I finally started Link’s Awakening DX and sat down to finish it after this was announced. Now you got me wanting to play it again lol
This was one of the few Gameboy games I owned as a young teenager. I spent over 20 years playing the game without ever completing the game. I had played all the game except the ending until the switch release. I first completed the switch version before going back to complete the Gameboy version on my 3ds and I haven't played either version since. I think part of the reason I never completed the game until this point as its such a wonderful world I just didn't want it to disappear, I know that must sound silly as it's just a game and I could just restart it but I was so attached to the world and the characters I didn't want to end it. Now that I have completed both versions I think the original is best! Thanks for all you do Johnny.
Thank you for this. I just finished the game yesterday, the ending is so magical, so poignant, so moving. I can remember exactly what I was doing back when I was 11 years and seeing the original ending for the first time and my kid mind just being blown away. Agreed, top 5 Zelda games for sure.
Living abroad, my copy just came today. This was my very first Zelda game when I was a kid. It's the only Zelda game I have beaten multiple times. Excited to revisit it. Cool review. Glad it's one of your goty. Hope it will be one of mine as well.
My favorite text line from the game is ” just as you cannot know if a chest holds treasure until you open it, you cannot tell it is a dream until you awaken” - the owl
This game will always hold a special place in my heart as well. Especially the dungeon theme of Level 6 right after you find the mural explaining the island is just an illusion. While traversing through Level 6, listening to that theme, i could just picture and feel the internal struggle of what you have to do and what the results will inevitably be and whether you are making the right choice by continuing your quest. This game brought out some real poweful emotions in me that i havent experienced in a while. Link's Awakening is very magical experience. Already started on my Hero run.
Link's Awakening was my favorite Zelda game before Breath of the Wild came out. It was one I played a lot as a kid and I have no idea how I got through it as a kid, because replaying it with this version, I forgot how cryptic it can be at times and how hard the puzzles are in later dungeons. It's still great though! I'm glad you really liked it! It's definitely in my Top 5 Zelda games as well.
Honestly man I started watching and I was close to finishing so held off till now. I agree with you 100% I feel like its one of my new favourite Zelda titles and that's from the magical experience they recreated so perfectly. Good job Johnny.
Great video Johnny! Just finished the game and I share your enthusiasm for it. Also played the original back in the 90s and feel fortunate to have gotten to play the remake. And lmao, and the thief part. I stole all the expensive items partially because I think it's hilarious how casually everyone calls you thief.
I've never played it, as I didn't have a Game Boy growing up, but having heard so much about it recently, I was mildly interested. This review just sold me on it.
Listening to Johnny’s tell gives a beautiful description on comparing the original and remake. What’s true about the game is short once you reach the final dungeon. You don’t want the journey to end because as a gamer you want to absorb all the little details on Koholint Island. My eyes starting tearing up at the last magical scene of Link’s Awakening. Marvelous, short game that really hits you in the feels.
Imagine a Links Awakening 4 album set. The original GameBoy soundtrack on GameBoy green vinyl with black splatter and the Switch version of the soundtrack on white with pink splatter. All held together and packaged like a children's story book that you would read before bed.
I had the same feelings playing this game. I've never played the game before so it was a brand new experience for me. I did play the original and SNES zelda games. So awakening felt very familiar. The new graphics and updated music was to die for. I enjoyed this game so much. I hope Nintendo can do this with the SNES Zelda games.
Great vid. Love this game. I remember playing this on a 2 week holiday to Tenerife as a kid on the original Gameboy and has been in my top 3 best games ever.
Link's Awakening is a game I play every year, it really is something I've carried with me for the last 26 years. Knowing that not only can you not save the people on the island, but have to stop them from existing to leave the island saving the windfish and yourself is so brilliant, and the trick is that you are told it is a dream and that that is what you have to do with hours left in the journey, really hits you hard. You still interact with the people, even when you know they aren't real, the next dungeon even has a really somber song playing to hit you harder. The story in this game is just absolutely nuts for a Gameboy game. This is a masterpiece, the game play is a 9 but the story is a 10.
The dream aspect of it made me think of Super Mario Bros. 2 (US version), which is cemented even more by the fact that there are shy guys in this game.
I agree with Johnny this is definitely in my top five Zelda games. I love the art style and the music. I finished the game yesterday so now l am going to replay it again this weekend.
The DX version was my first Zelda game ever, and my favorite thus far. I need to get this one! Now you just need to beat it without dying to see the best ending.
Finished it last night on hero mode and got the good ending. It was such a breath of fresh air to play a puzzle adventure game that is so cute, claming, with a toy art style. Before this game was released I just 100%'d botw on the 18th sept and I took a 2 day break from games so I can get all relaxed and ready for LA remake. I had a pleasant time with this game and it's kept me occupied before DQ11 and the Erdrick trillogy comes to switch which I've been waiting for since late 2018.
Played the game for the first time, and i had so much fun that i will postpone the new fire emblem to play a Link between worlds on the 3DS. Really glad to see that i wasn't the only one really impressed and captivated by the game, visuals and music. Thanks a lot for share your thoughts.
Nah, a link to the past is supposed to be darker than links awakening. If they are going to remake that one they should make it more mature and darker. This style is better fitting for the oracle games. Though personally, I don't think a link to the past needs a remake, it still looks great as it is! I prefer a remake of oracle games, zelda 1 and 2 which havent aged that well in comparison.
I can't wait to play this game for the first time. I'd always meant to play it, but never got around to it for some reason. I'll definitely be documenting my experience via video on the Tom & Joe Show, the internet's best show on the internet. For the month of October we are only doing horror-themed games, starting with Luigi's Mansion, but right after we're finished with that I think we're going to jump right in to Link's Awakening. I can't wait!
This game really shows how special Nintendo was in the late 80s early 90s. Every game they made was a masterpiece. Never played this game for more than a few minutes as a kid. It made it a real treat to get to play this game on a big tv. The one dungeon towards the end was a little frustrating because I had to keep looping back around if you went the wrong way and I went the wrong way like 20 times.
Played it for the first time a couple weeks ago. Loved it! It made me very nostalgic for the old days, playing it on my game boy color. This time I actually finished the game though!
I had such a smile on my face while watching this, Johnny, just seeing you fall in love with a game that has always been so very special to me, and seeing you appreciate and see the same magic in the game that I do. Link's Awakening DX was my first Zelda game and is an immeasurably special game to me. I was skeptical about the remake when they first revealed it, but it really delivered, feeling transformative but also true to the spirit of the original. Hearing you have this reaction to it proves this. I also really appreciate you talking about how cool and unique the narrative in the game really is. I feel like the storytelling in LA has always been underappreciated and underdiscussed among the Zelda games and in general, and I hope this remake helps it to get its due recognition. It really is so special.
Left watching this until I finished it for myself and I 100% it the other night with zero deaths so unlocked the secret ending on my first play through and yes Johnny, that ending gave me chills and teared up several times. That added touch to the secret ending was truly beautiful. That's when the tears leaked out.
Played and beat this a few times back on the original Gameboy. I know I dont have time for this game right now and really enjoyed the re-cap and video. I agree on the ending, I remember that sad feeling when I first beat it. Felt a similar way with FF10.
I feel the same. Links awakening was the first Zelda game I owned and one of the first games I owned in general. It is also the first game I fondly remember and have nostalgia for. My only problems with Links awakening was the inventory management which has now been fixed and I truly think this is an awesome remake! The art style really fits this game and there are even some extra heart pieces, shells and other collectibles. My only disappointment is that the dungeon maker is quite underwhelming, luckily the last series doesn't really reward anything significant so I do not really need to do it. Btw I think people are exaggerating how short this game is, yes it is short but to beat it under 8 hours you either need a walkthrough or know exactly what you are doing. It is easy to get lost in some of the dungeons due to there being several branches leading to a dead end. I think for a fresh playthrough using no guide it is more like an average of about 14-15 hours and another 2-4 to find every hearth piece, shell, and figurine. Also, I don't mind the game being so short since there is barely any boring content in it, backtracking doesn't matter since the map is small and you will most likely find some secrets along the way. Take for instance Ocarina of Time, which I really love btw way. A large part of why this game takes longer than links awakening is not because of good reasons. Gathering all 100 skultulas is both boring and unrewarding and I would argue that you can better quit after getting 50, also it sometimes takes way to long to travel from A to B. For instance as a child you have to go from the forest to the castle and than back etc... Since the map is way bigger than it needs to be a large part of your extra playtime is due to walking, walking and some more walking. So yeah many games seem so much bigger, but if you really look at the content I think the difference isn't even that big it is for a large part because of some boring filler stuff added and long travel time. I rather have a 10 hours game which is 10 hours of full epicness than a 30-hour game where I spend a large part watching unskippable cutscenes and traversing the land without finding anything useful. That being said I do feel the game is on the expensive side comparing it with the likes of BoTW, Mario odyssey and Xenoblade Chronicles 2 or maybe the latter ones are just cheap considering they have so much content.
I just beat the game today, got all the little extras, that I know of. I loved it! I have the original on my gameboy but haven't played it since 95. Now I want a Link to the past remade in this style, oh and a port of a link between worlds would be nice too!
As a kid when I beat this game in 1993 on original gameboy and first experienced the ending I literally cried like a baby and had a deep visceral reaction with the plot twist in the end. That was my first time experiencing in a video game where I became emotionally attached and invested in all the characters and locations in the game to the point of a weird obsession or love with them lol. But anyway, after YEARS of screaming out for a modern remake, going all the way back to the original Wii days, 2 generations later Nintendo finally delivered. Come on Nintendo...take this same engine and give us Oracle Of Ages and Oracle of Seasons on the Switch!! Then while you're at it a Skyward Sword release on Switch would be much appreciated! :)
I loved this remake. I still enjoy the original for nostalgic reasons. I played through it all during my childhood and never beat it till my teen years and I remember feeling so accomplished because it took me years to beat. I would always just fiddle around with it, then one fishing trip I decided I was going to really try to focus and actually beat it and it was such a great experience. It was easy to knock out this remake in a weekend but I would still recommend it to anyone who loved the original and wants to get a vastly improved version. I would still recommend playing the original at some point just because it's one of the quintessential gameboy games that I think everyone should play like pokemon or super mario land 2 but if you don't care this game rules.
Back in the day, this game lasted me months on the game boy. You couldn't just youtube a walkthrough whenever you got stuck. The ball puzzle in Dungeon 7 and the trading quest took me forever to figure out.
Just finished the game for the first time (never played the original), and I loved it. I want to play it again right now. And I agree with everything you just said. Also, yes, the puzzles were very vague and tricky sometimes (and yes, the ball part was tricky!), but I loved it. I never thought the day would come where I could re-experience the magic of playing an old-school, 2D Zelda game, but here it is, and I loved it. Game of the year for me. Now I just have to find the remaining heart pieces, seashells, and for the love of whatever, how do I get into the color dungeon in the cemetery?! I will figure it out!
Love the ending of this game, very surreal, and simplistic if you dont analyze it, but it teaches a beautiful lesson and it makes you think about what is real, sure, nothing on the dream exists anymore, but Link is not sad that it dissapeared, hes happy that it even happened in the first place, powerful stuff.
I finished the DX version a couple of months ago on the 3DS, and I like the remake more. I love the quality of life improvements and the beautiful visuals.
This game took me over 25 hours to complete. I don’t think length is an issue personally. But yes Johnny this game has something special. For me it was the first game I played as a kid and I was getting bombed with memories of me playing it during lunch break in grade 3. Me and my friend Ryan would talk everyday about it and all the secrets I never knew of that he figured out. Unfortunately the game was too hard for me as a kid I gave up. It was personal revenge to make this game my own on my own terms. 10/10 game
I still remember my friend had a og gameboy, and in 1996 he used to play the og game. Long way since those barely 8 bit, two ro three color game boy games, though game gear blew all handhelds outta the water until pokemon released outside japan in 1998
Just finished this game today and I adore it. I think it is the best of the Zelda remakes so far! Really want them to remake the Oracle games with this style. Anyone looking to play old 2D Zelda, look no further!
I'm getting my copy and Amiibo for Switch tomorrow in the mail. Been playing my copy of Links Awakening DX on my game boy color the last couple of days
This reminds me of the good old times before the internet when you basically could make up any rumors and be taken seriously. Like Smash 64 and its unlockables characters like Dark Link, Bowser, Falco, Raichu, Dr. Mario etc. OOT triforce, nowadays everyone knows that this stuff is fake but back then everything was possible.
@@slax4884 You hear Marins song and see her appear in the sky then a seagull flies past - She wished the wind fish would make her a seagull so she could go where she wanted and sing so it granted her wish.
Played the DX version and i must say the game was ahead of it's time back then, you get attached to the people and the world, I too want to get the soundtrack.
I don't know if its the best but I know it will always be in my heart. That's what happens when some game conforts you through difficult times. ^_^ Besides, the hero mode is such a refreshing and stimulating experience. Even more for a Souls/Zelda megafan like me! ;)
Links awakening remake was the most fun I had playing a Zelda game since twilight princess. I feel bad I didn't get breath of the wild but I hope they still continue to try new things with zelda
This is still the best way to play Zelda. It was nice playing a Zelda and not knowing what to do. Turtle rock was insane. I started getting annoyed having to go through the same area over and over.
I knew the ending since it's the first thing people talk about when they talk about this game and it's also in the title. Took me 16 hours to finish with no guides and I still had a good time, except dungeon 7.
Even though I could break out my original Game Boy cart and play it on my Gcube Game Boy Player, I enjoyed playing this game so much, this game may be a Switch seller for me.
If you beat the game with out dying even once you get an extra of a segal flying and a anime drawing of Marin smiling. it's indicated that she became the seagal and got to fly around the world that the whale granted her wish, you find this out when talking to her during gameplay that she wanted that.
Because of your love and sincere passion for this game, you hooked me. I plan to purchase a copy tomorrow ... and I don't even own a Switch. Yet. Why don't I own a Switch. I'm waiting for either the rumored Switch Pro or a Metroid Prime 4 bundle with a Metroid branded Switch, if they make one. I have to assume they will.
Just completed the game the minute this video went up. I actually didn't get the original game, I mean it came out the year I was born so. Anyway, I completed it and it's really good a few weird issues with frame rate but man it's good. The animated scenes just really make me want a good Zelda anime.
This is more like it! I had a game boy color,but I never owned this game! At that time I hadn’t even discovered Zelda. I did play “Ocarina of Time” and was the first Nintendo game I got rid of because of it being too hard! It was not till “Twilight Princess” when I finally got back into the franchise! Ive played all the over the years and love them all!
I always love how raw and unfiltered and passionate Johnny is whenever he talks about games. Such an amazing gaming veteran who just truly loves what he talks about. Keep up the good stuff, Johnny!
That is why I'm subscribed, he is so charismatic
I'm glad you enjoyed this game. I have been watching this show since I was 8 years old and now I'm in university and use your show as a way to remember to smile and enjoy my life. Thank you for everything you do. I look at your show nostalgically like you look at something like macross or Zelda 1. You and Rob got me through some tough times as a kid. Thank you John! I really appreciate it.
Wow! Thank you! time flies!
I spent so much time with this back in 1993 I seem to be walking through this new version pretty fast. It’s amazing how much I’ve remembered after all these years.
Appreciate the warning up front! I'll come back in a day or two, I'm on the last dungeon.
Hope this opens the gate for Metroid gba games to get a remaster like fusion and Zero Mission
Hallowed Be Thy Game that would be so cool. I’ve been craving to bust out fusion 😂
I'd be happy with a Samus returns port to Switch.
@@jcnba28 Given they have made the engine and so many assets, they could remake zero mission/super/fusion fairly easily on switch, along with samus returns :)
Zero Mission is a constant blast. The flow was just perfect imo.
Sike!
Oracle games first!
CD soundtrack?!?! get with the times old man! Vinyl is the modern format! :)
Vinyl all day ever day!
I gotta agree with you, 100%, this game has etched itself as my game of the year (so far) and as one of the my top 5 favorite Zelda games of all time. I feel so compelled to replay and I remember thinking to myself when I was at the end of it, that I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to walk around and just take it all in one last time. The soundtrack, the nostalgia, the kooky cameos, the non-hand-holding & linear focus of the original Zelda games reimagined in beautiful graphics. The ending had me nearly in tears and I got this sense of completion. I knew when the credits rolled that I’ll never forget this game and the time I had with it. THIS GAME IS 100% AMAZING AND PERFECTION. I regret never playing the DX or original version. The frame drops don’t impact gameplay at all whatsoever. You’ll notice it, but it won’t finish the gameplay. 🙏🏻
Halfway through, and I’m loving it (except FPS drops)! I’m 39, and this is my first time playing it :)
I just turned 40. I remember playing this as a kid when it was new. I don't know why I wasn't more into it. It's exactly the kind of game I would play back then and I went crazy for A Link to the Past. I think back then I played a lot more fighting games (1993-1996), so I was probably too obsessed with Mortal Kombat and Street Fighter 2 Turbo that I only played through this once and didn't really give it its due.
KMƒÐM_KîÐ2Ø00™ same here I’m 41 and remember getting this game and only playing and beating it once then never played it again, I think because I was so heavily into Nintendo and super Nintendo. This new version is definitely something special even if you’re not a Zelda fan it’s a no brainer purchase.
luKe I already beat it! When playing BOTW I miss that formula where rupees are everywhere by cutting the grass and the dungeon collecting progression. Links Awakening has that and it’s a breath of fresh air! It’s like “Wind Waker”and “Twilight Princess” ,but a lot more like “Majora’s Mask” which I loved! I have never played this game until now and am so glad I did! Playing the game especially hearing the music of the owl makes you feel like you’re living in the 90s! EPIC GAME!!👍👍👍
I have loved your channel for a long time, but have never commented. However, I had to comment on this video, because I love this game so much. Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game of all time!!! It was the first Zelda I ever played, and I played it on a GameBoy that I had to save up for and buy when I was a kid; and the Gameboy came with Link's Awakening and Mario Six Golden Coins. When I first tried Link's Awakening I hated it, because I had never played a game like this before, and I had no clue on how to get out of the first house. So I set it down, and came back months later to try it out. It took me months upon months to beat. Every time I progressed I hit another roadblock on a puzzle that would have me stumped. BUT once I beat it, I loved it so much it became my most played game. I would literally play through, beat it, play through it again, finish it again, and then start again. I loved it, and I love the Switch version!!! BTW I'm glad they kept the alternate ending in the game. If you haven't achieved it, you should. It will melt your heart.
Nice! awesome story thanks for sharing! :D
Length should never really be an issue sometimes. A good short game can be a masterpiece as compared to a lengthy long overdrawn game.
Dont get me wrong, I love my AAA legnthy adventures... But I love my short simple adventures just as much if not often more-so. At least in those short adventures I actually do get around to beating the game before getting burned out on it c_c
I still have not beat Skyrim...
Link's Awakening has always been my favorite Zelda game and this remake really reinforced that. The ending would always get to me, but the redone music at the end really put it over the top. During the credits when the music goes to the Game Boy version for just a bit really blindsided me and I loved it. Plus, seeing Marin at the end in the anime style is a nice bonus. I'm assuming that's only if you beat the game with no deaths like in the original.
Anyway, fantastic remake. Glad you liked it as much as I did.
It's so much fun to hear you talk about games, Johnny. It never gets old. As for Link's Awakening, it has reminded me how much I love the franchise's old school roots. I honestly am not much into the 3D games (maybe if they ever get remade? time will tell) but this game has been a blessing and completely messed up my top 5 of 2019, lol.
The "Thief" thing was in the original too! Awesome they kept that in.
I love genuine channels such as this. I love this game too. I played it first in that Zelda green Game n Watch but I didn’t get to finish. I did finish it in the Switch and I had a blast. We’re on a vacation in Arizona when we got it and that was a great trip for me too so this game will forever be etched in my memory.
Link's Awakening is my favorite Zelda game and in my Top 5 favorite games ever. I still own my original copies the original game and DX. I also picked up the Japanese original copy and was given a German version of DX years ago. Also got a English translation of The Frog for Whom the Bell Tolls. I've loved Link's Awakening since it came out.
Wow what a review. I had goosebumps watching this. I’ve played through twice and your review sums this game up to perfection!
I watched the first half at work today 6 dungeons in, just beat it and finished this video. What an evening! love your enthusiasm and passion for these games man
Damn... I'm anxious to hear your final thoughts on the game, but I can't hear any spoilers. This is my first time playing this particular story line, and I'm only 25%-30% through at this point. I'll have to come back to this video next week... For me personally, I absolutely love this game! I've always preferred the top down format for Zelda, with Zelda III being one of my personal Favorites. I loved the open world Breath of the Wild as well, but for me it's too easy to get distracted from the main story line in the more open world games.
I loved Link's Awakening as a kid, and I'm honestly kind of happy and surprised to hear veteran gamers talking about the vagueness/difficulty. I was stuck for sooooooooooooooooo long because I couldn't figure out how to get into the second dungeon. I eventually saved up my money and my dad's friend who owned a bookstore ordered the game guide (the Newstand in Clemson, SC, now closed sadly).
I was going to hold off on this because a few years ago I finally started Link’s Awakening DX and sat down to finish it after this was announced. Now you got me wanting to play it again lol
This was one of the few Gameboy games I owned as a young teenager. I spent over 20 years playing the game without ever completing the game. I had played all the game except the ending until the switch release. I first completed the switch version before going back to complete the Gameboy version on my 3ds and I haven't played either version since. I think part of the reason I never completed the game until this point as its such a wonderful world I just didn't want it to disappear, I know that must sound silly as it's just a game and I could just restart it but I was so attached to the world and the characters I didn't want to end it. Now that I have completed both versions I think the original is best! Thanks for all you do Johnny.
Thank you for this. I just finished the game yesterday, the ending is so magical, so poignant, so moving. I can remember exactly what I was doing back when I was 11 years and seeing the original ending for the first time and my kid mind just being blown away. Agreed, top 5 Zelda games for sure.
Living abroad, my copy just came today. This was my very first Zelda game when I was a kid. It's the only Zelda game I have beaten multiple times. Excited to revisit it. Cool review. Glad it's one of your goty. Hope it will be one of mine as well.
Man, that final conclusion really got me. You really are an inspiration, and videogames are magical! #PlayForever
My favorite text line from the game is ” just as you cannot know if a chest holds treasure until you open it, you cannot tell it is a dream until you awaken” - the owl
This game will always hold a special place in my heart as well. Especially the dungeon theme of Level 6 right after you find the mural explaining the island is just an illusion. While traversing through Level 6, listening to that theme, i could just picture and feel the internal struggle of what you have to do and what the results will inevitably be and whether you are making the right choice by continuing your quest. This game brought out some real poweful emotions in me that i havent experienced in a while. Link's Awakening is very magical experience. Already started on my Hero run.
Link's Awakening was my favorite Zelda game before Breath of the Wild came out. It was one I played a lot as a kid and I have no idea how I got through it as a kid, because replaying it with this version, I forgot how cryptic it can be at times and how hard the puzzles are in later dungeons. It's still great though! I'm glad you really liked it! It's definitely in my Top 5 Zelda games as well.
Honestly man I started watching and I was close to finishing so held off till now. I agree with you 100% I feel like its one of my new favourite Zelda titles and that's from the magical experience they recreated so perfectly. Good job Johnny.
Great video Johnny! Just finished the game and I share your enthusiasm for it. Also played the original back in the 90s and feel fortunate to have gotten to play the remake. And lmao, and the thief part. I stole all the expensive items partially because I think it's hilarious how casually everyone calls you thief.
I've never played it, as I didn't have a Game Boy growing up, but having heard so much about it recently, I was mildly interested. This review just sold me on it.
Listening to Johnny’s tell gives a beautiful description on comparing the original and remake. What’s true about the game is short once you reach the final dungeon. You don’t want the journey to end because as a gamer you want to absorb all the little details on Koholint Island. My eyes starting tearing up at the last magical scene of Link’s Awakening. Marvelous, short game that really hits you in the feels.
Imagine a Links Awakening 4 album set. The original GameBoy soundtrack on GameBoy green vinyl with black splatter and the Switch version of the soundtrack on white with pink splatter. All held together and packaged like a children's story book that you would read before bed.
This was my very first game I remember playing as a kid. The whole time I played this game, small things just made me smile so much.
When HCG does 3 videos on a game, you know it’s good
I had the same feelings playing this game. I've never played the game before so it was a brand new experience for me. I did play the original and SNES zelda games. So awakening felt very familiar. The new graphics and updated music was to die for. I enjoyed this game so much. I hope Nintendo can do this with the SNES Zelda games.
Great vid. Love this game. I remember playing this on a 2 week holiday to Tenerife as a kid on the original Gameboy and has been in my top 3 best games ever.
Link's Awakening is a game I play every year, it really is something I've carried with me for the last 26 years. Knowing that not only can you not save the people on the island, but have to stop them from existing to leave the island saving the windfish and yourself is so brilliant, and the trick is that you are told it is a dream and that that is what you have to do with hours left in the journey, really hits you hard.
You still interact with the people, even when you know they aren't real, the next dungeon even has a really somber song playing to hit you harder. The story in this game is just absolutely nuts for a Gameboy game. This is a masterpiece, the game play is a 9 but the story is a 10.
John, I am loving the consistent uploads my man. Please keep it up if you can.
The dream aspect of it made me think of Super Mario Bros. 2 (US version), which is cemented even more by the fact that there are shy guys in this game.
I agree with Johnny this is definitely in my top five Zelda games. I love the art style and the music. I finished the game yesterday so now l am going to replay it again this weekend.
I played this game so much back in the day on the Gameboy. One of my favorite games on the Gameboy and one of my favorite Zeldas as well.
The DX version was my first Zelda game ever, and my favorite thus far. I need to get this one! Now you just need to beat it without dying to see the best ending.
Finished it last night on hero mode and got the good ending.
It was such a breath of fresh air to play a puzzle adventure game that is so cute, claming, with a toy art style.
Before this game was released I just 100%'d botw on the 18th sept and I took a 2 day break from games so I can get all relaxed and ready for LA remake.
I had a pleasant time with this game and it's kept me occupied before DQ11 and the Erdrick trillogy comes to switch which I've been waiting for since late 2018.
This or trails of mana?
Played the game for the first time, and i had so much fun that i will postpone the new fire emblem to play a Link between worlds on the 3DS.
Really glad to see that i wasn't the only one really impressed and captivated by the game, visuals and music.
Thanks a lot for share your thoughts.
I hope they can use the same framework to remake a link to the past as the style of this game is perfect.
Nah, a link to the past is supposed to be darker than links awakening. If they are going to remake that one they should make it more mature and darker. This style is better fitting for the oracle games. Though personally, I don't think a link to the past needs a remake, it still looks great as it is! I prefer a remake of oracle games, zelda 1 and 2 which havent aged that well in comparison.
I can't wait to play this game for the first time. I'd always meant to play it, but never got around to it for some reason. I'll definitely be documenting my experience via video on the Tom & Joe Show, the internet's best show on the internet. For the month of October we are only doing horror-themed games, starting with Luigi's Mansion, but right after we're finished with that I think we're going to jump right in to Link's Awakening. I can't wait!
This game really shows how special Nintendo was in the late 80s early 90s. Every game they made was a masterpiece. Never played this game for more than a few minutes as a kid. It made it a real treat to get to play this game on a big tv. The one dungeon towards the end was a little frustrating because I had to keep looping back around if you went the wrong way and I went the wrong way like 20 times.
Played it for the first time a couple weeks ago. Loved it! It made me very nostalgic for the old days, playing it on my game boy color. This time I actually finished the game though!
I had such a smile on my face while watching this, Johnny, just seeing you fall in love with a game that has always been so very special to me, and seeing you appreciate and see the same magic in the game that I do. Link's Awakening DX was my first Zelda game and is an immeasurably special game to me. I was skeptical about the remake when they first revealed it, but it really delivered, feeling transformative but also true to the spirit of the original. Hearing you have this reaction to it proves this. I also really appreciate you talking about how cool and unique the narrative in the game really is. I feel like the storytelling in LA has always been underappreciated and underdiscussed among the Zelda games and in general, and I hope this remake helps it to get its due recognition. It really is so special.
Left watching this until I finished it for myself and I 100% it the other night with zero deaths so unlocked the secret ending on my first play through and yes Johnny, that ending gave me chills and teared up several times. That added touch to the secret ending was truly beautiful. That's when the tears leaked out.
Great review, I also agree it’s in my top 5 zelda games, it’s so well put together and the puzzles are really clever
Played and beat this a few times back on the original Gameboy. I know I dont have time for this game right now and really enjoyed the re-cap and video. I agree on the ending, I remember that sad feeling when I first beat it. Felt a similar way with FF10.
I just finished the game tonight and I felt the same way. I knew it would be good, but I didn’t know it would be THAT good! Amazing Zelda experience!
I feel the same. Links awakening was the first Zelda game I owned and one of the first games I owned in general. It is also the first game I fondly remember and have nostalgia for. My only problems with Links awakening was the inventory management which has now been fixed and I truly think this is an awesome remake! The art style really fits this game and there are even some extra heart pieces, shells and other collectibles. My only disappointment is that the dungeon maker is quite underwhelming, luckily the last series doesn't really reward anything significant so I do not really need to do it.
Btw I think people are exaggerating how short this game is, yes it is short but to beat it under 8 hours you either need a walkthrough or know exactly what you are doing. It is easy to get lost in some of the dungeons due to there being several branches leading to a dead end. I think for a fresh playthrough using no guide it is more like an average of about 14-15 hours and another 2-4 to find every hearth piece, shell, and figurine. Also, I don't mind the game being so short since there is barely any boring content in it, backtracking doesn't matter since the map is small and you will most likely find some secrets along the way. Take for instance Ocarina of Time, which I really love btw way. A large part of why this game takes longer than links awakening is not because of good reasons. Gathering all 100 skultulas is both boring and unrewarding and I would argue that you can better quit after getting 50, also it sometimes takes way to long to travel from A to B. For instance as a child you have to go from the forest to the castle and than back etc... Since the map is way bigger than it needs to be a large part of your extra playtime is due to walking, walking and some more walking. So yeah many games seem so much bigger, but if you really look at the content I think the difference isn't even that big it is for a large part because of some boring filler stuff added and long travel time. I rather have a 10 hours game which is 10 hours of full epicness than a 30-hour game where I spend a large part watching unskippable cutscenes and traversing the land without finding anything useful. That being said I do feel the game is on the expensive side comparing it with the likes of BoTW, Mario odyssey and Xenoblade Chronicles 2 or maybe the latter ones are just cheap considering they have so much content.
I just beat the game today, got all the little extras, that I know of. I loved it! I have the original on my gameboy but haven't played it since 95. Now I want a Link to the past remade in this style, oh and a port of a link between worlds would be nice too!
As a kid when I beat this game in 1993 on original gameboy and first experienced the ending I literally cried like a baby and had a deep visceral reaction with the plot twist in the end. That was my first time experiencing in a video game where I became emotionally attached and invested in all the characters and locations in the game to the point of a weird obsession or love with them lol. But anyway, after YEARS of screaming out for a modern remake, going all the way back to the original Wii days, 2 generations later Nintendo finally delivered. Come on Nintendo...take this same engine and give us Oracle Of Ages and Oracle of Seasons on the Switch!! Then while you're at it a Skyward Sword release on Switch would be much appreciated! :)
I loved this remake. I still enjoy the original for nostalgic reasons. I played through it all during my childhood and never beat it till my teen years and I remember feeling so accomplished because it took me years to beat. I would always just fiddle around with it, then one fishing trip I decided I was going to really try to focus and actually beat it and it was such a great experience. It was easy to knock out this remake in a weekend but I would still recommend it to anyone who loved the original and wants to get a vastly improved version. I would still recommend playing the original at some point just because it's one of the quintessential gameboy games that I think everyone should play like pokemon or super mario land 2 but if you don't care this game rules.
Back in the day, this game lasted me months on the game boy. You couldn't just youtube a walkthrough whenever you got stuck. The ball puzzle in Dungeon 7 and the trading quest took me forever to figure out.
I just finished the game 10 minutes ago so I could watch this video finally. I agree with you- Such a great game! Probably top 3 Zelda for me.
Just finished the game for the first time (never played the original), and I loved it. I want to play it again right now. And I agree with everything you just said. Also, yes, the puzzles were very vague and tricky sometimes (and yes, the ball part was tricky!), but I loved it. I never thought the day would come where I could re-experience the magic of playing an old-school, 2D Zelda game, but here it is, and I loved it. Game of the year for me. Now I just have to find the remaining heart pieces, seashells, and for the love of whatever, how do I get into the color dungeon in the cemetery?! I will figure it out!
You put in so much thought and love into this video Johnny, very well done! Gave me a tear...
You convinced me to try this game and I totally agree about the feel of the game. The game is a work of art.
Love the ending of this game, very surreal, and simplistic if you dont analyze it, but it teaches a beautiful lesson and it makes you think about what is real, sure, nothing on the dream exists anymore, but Link is not sad that it dissapeared, hes happy that it even happened in the first place, powerful stuff.
I finished the DX version a couple of months ago on the 3DS, and I like the remake more. I love the quality of life improvements and the beautiful visuals.
I’ve never really played a Zelda game before. Your honest and heartfelt review makes me consider it.
This game took me over 25 hours to complete. I don’t think length is an issue personally. But yes Johnny this game has something special. For me it was the first game I played as a kid and I was getting bombed with memories of me playing it during lunch break in grade 3. Me and my friend Ryan would talk everyday about it and all the secrets I never knew of that he figured out. Unfortunately the game was too hard for me as a kid I gave up. It was personal revenge to make this game my own on my own terms. 10/10 game
I still remember my friend had a og gameboy, and in 1996 he used to play the og game. Long way since those barely 8 bit, two ro three color game boy games, though game gear blew all handhelds outta the water until pokemon released outside japan in 1998
Just finished this game today and I adore it. I think it is the best of the Zelda remakes so far! Really want them to remake the Oracle games with this style. Anyone looking to play old 2D Zelda, look no further!
Haven't played the new version yet but it's my favorite zelda! Excited to hear the southern face shrine music redone. Song really set the mood.
I hope we get more of these zeldas. Imagine the original zelda remade like this
I'll watch it after I've finished the game. I don't want any spoilers
Love your review and enthusiasm about this
I'm getting my copy and Amiibo for Switch tomorrow in the mail. Been playing my copy of Links Awakening DX on my game boy color the last couple of days
I went back and played the OG Game boy game on my GameCube... also has frame rate drops! Nostalgia.
I hope you know, there is a hidden ending when you beat the game without any deaths...
Yeah, there's not much to the ending but he's gotta see it. It makes it that much sweeter.
What happens?
This reminds me of the good old times before the internet when you basically could make up any rumors and be taken seriously.
Like Smash 64 and its unlockables characters like Dark Link, Bowser, Falco, Raichu, Dr. Mario etc.
OOT triforce, nowadays everyone knows that this stuff is fake but back then everything was possible.
@@slax4884 You hear Marins song and see her appear in the sky then a seagull flies past - She wished the wind fish would make her a seagull so she could go where she wanted and sing so it granted her wish.
@@deadwolfknight ah ok, I haven't play the game yet so didn't know her wish
Just now playing it. And it feels so much like a Link to the past 2 or .5. Loving it so far.
Played the DX version and i must say the game was ahead of it's time back then, you get attached to the people and the world, I too want to get the soundtrack.
Wow this was one of your best videos lots of emotion here
I don't know if its the best but I know it will always be in my heart. That's what happens when some game conforts you through difficult times. ^_^ Besides, the hero mode is such a refreshing and stimulating experience. Even more for a Souls/Zelda megafan like me! ;)
Links awakening remake was the most fun I had playing a Zelda game since twilight princess. I feel bad I didn't get breath of the wild but I hope they still continue to try new things with zelda
I had a great experience playing this being a fan of it on the gameboy. I really loved the face shrine remix theme.
This is still the best way to play Zelda. It was nice playing a Zelda and not knowing what to do. Turtle rock was insane. I started getting annoyed having to go through the same area over and over.
I knew the ending since it's the first thing people talk about when they talk about this game and it's also in the title. Took me 16 hours to finish with no guides and I still had a good time, except dungeon 7.
Even though I could break out my original Game Boy cart and play it on my Gcube Game Boy Player, I enjoyed playing this game so much, this game may be a Switch seller for me.
I was like hell yeah ! New happyconsolegamer video but... It contains spoilers and I just only completed my fourth dungeon. Damn it video game gods...
If you beat the game with out dying even once you get an extra of a segal flying and a anime drawing of Marin smiling. it's indicated that she became the seagal and got to fly around the world that the whale granted her wish, you find this out when talking to her during gameplay that she wanted that.
I love the art style it's a beautiful game to not only look at but with its story telling.
Because of your love and sincere passion for this game, you hooked me. I plan to purchase a copy tomorrow ... and I don't even own a Switch. Yet.
Why don't I own a Switch. I'm waiting for either the rumored Switch Pro or a Metroid Prime 4 bundle with a Metroid branded Switch, if they make one. I have to assume they will.
Did you end up buying it ?
Yep. And I still don't own a Switch. Lol
Just completed the game the minute this video went up. I actually didn't get the original game, I mean it came out the year I was born so. Anyway, I completed it and it's really good a few weird issues with frame rate but man it's good. The animated scenes just really make me want a good Zelda anime.
I just finished the game tonight, it was amazing!
Thanks for the heads up on the spoilers.
As I'm not getting this until Christmas (yes I used that c word) I'll give this video a miss until then.
I’ve always said that this is the only “it was all a dream” story that has ever worked! Glad you mentioned that
I don't know. The Wizard of Oz worlds. And if you are in the mood for bat-crap crazy, Return To Oz works even better.
JazGalaxy would you hate me if I told you I didn’t even know wizard of Oz was a dream?
Fist time I have noticed the Roy Fokker jacket. Epic. Don't fall off a couch man!
2 remakes in GOTY discussion this year (RE 2 and this)..... hopefully this bodes well for FFVII and Trials of Mana in 2020 🙂
I love that he shows almost all zeldas with enthusiasm except skyward sword haha
Nothing tops his enthusiasm for Dynamite Dux! haha
Stayed up extra late to finish this as I was close to the end. Could just instantly start it up and start exploring again.
Love your vids and loved this review. You deserve more subs and love
They need to put Ocarina of Time, Majoras Mask, and Link Btwn Worlds into this Switch...
AND Metroid Prime!
This is more like it! I had a game boy color,but I never owned this game! At that time I hadn’t even discovered Zelda. I did play “Ocarina of Time” and was the first Nintendo game I got rid of because of it being too hard! It was not till “Twilight Princess” when I finally got back into the franchise! Ive played all the over the years and love them all!
Fair play John.just shows size doesn't matter .cough.cough