I didn't get Zelda 2 when it first came out. I distinctly remember seeing it on the tab at some store (i don't remember which) but i was young. I eventually traded my friend Joey Camacho and finally was able to go on Link's Adventure. Strangely enough, my copy was much more silver than gold. Idk. Though the overworld never really sat right with me and seemed almost like a step backwards from the look of Zelda 1, I loved the action sequences. I still do. Thanks to school yard tips and Nintendo Power, I beat Link's Shadow (and definitely crouched. LOL). Such great memories... What are your memories of the game? Also.. thank you so much for watching! I’m so close to the 100,000 subscriber milestone. Please do me a favor and share this video with anyone you know who loves NES games or the Zelda franchise. Spread the Nintendo love and help me reach that elusive goal! Thank you! 🍄
If I could subscribe again, I would. However, Shigeru convinced me to smash the like button….. You’re an awesome chap. Thanks for bringing such awesome gaming content to my life.
Too many people hate on this game. This was easily one of the greatest NES games. It was the 8th best selling NES game. You don't sell that many copies by being a bad game. All the hate comes from people who weren't around when the game came out. They rely too much on save states and rewinds to save the progress every time they scratch their butts. Gaming use to be get good and stop crying. For those of you who trash this game because it's not as good as modern games, will you please also compare the Ford model t to the Lexus LFA (the hindenberg to the concord / the steam locomotive to a mag lev bullet train). You are all delusional.
The quality of the Declassified series is out of this world, way worth the wait between episodes for high class documentary quality. Appriciate the hard work and effort you put into this.
Thank you for noticing! I definitely put my heart and soul into every episode. I want them to stand the test of time and really bring us back to the period
My man, your production quality is always through the roof and you still keep topping yourself. Great research too. In other words you make other channels look bad... and I like it.
Totally agree with this guy - your channel is epic. Declassified always surprises me. I thought I knew pretty much all the history and secrets for most of these games but you always surprise me with facts and secrets I didnt know. "Is it fun" is my other favorite series you do, itd be awesome to see some more of those too. Hope you hit 100k soon, your channel is way better than 99% of the retro game channels repeating the same facts over and over and you should have a million subs!
Just wanted to let you know how much these masterpieces mean to me, whenever I have anything going on, I put these on, relax, and all my problems of the day just melt away. Please never stop making these.
Zelda 2 is my favorite in the series when it's about atmosphere. It really feels like a more grown up and more grim Zelda while still having that mystery and wonder.
Yes it has a very Mediterranean atmosphere. I always remember the art in the booklets being very dark and gritty. The townsfolk also were drawn as real people and not silly cartoonish. The breath of the wild was the first recent game to return to real people.
Zelda 2 is my favorite because of this to. I also like Links Awakening because it's a twisted dream inspired by Twin Peaks. I like the Game and Watch one the best.
@@Heymrk I feel like the top down view of the original and Link to the past isnt as dynamic and fun to replay as Legend of Zelda 2. It's a game I still return to every now and then, I'm pushing over 40 years of age. The original and Link to the past...I've played them and i recognise their value as classics, but i just don't feel like they are as fun. I like using downward and upward thrusts, the swordplay of Zelda 2. I know i guess It's a minority opinion, but Zelda 2 is definitely my favourite of the franchise.
When I first played it as a kid, I liked Zelda 2, but didn’t love it because the difficulty curve was so high. Sometime around college, when my gaming skills were greater, I realized that it’s my favorite video game of all time-the combat platforming engine is unparalleled, with the idea of both high and low attack and defense, the towns are more numerous and interesting, and the dark and mysterious feel make every play through a real adventure. It has lots of flaws, and if I could remake it today, there are many things I would remove, or change, or expand upon, but it directly inspired video games that I’ve personally made, and I know a lot of people love it like I do. This video is an excellent service to humanity, and I thank you so much for highlighting such an underrated game, and teaching me lots of things that even I didn’t know, especially around the production of the game, and its connection to other games and mythology. I had to rewind and rewatch parts of the video many times in amazement! I know this video was a colossal effort, like all your Declassified videos, and I truly appreciate all the work you’ve done for fans of this dark horse in the greatest game series of all time. You did miss one minor thing, the explicit Dragon Quest reference at one of the graves that was removed in the English version (and mirrored in a Dragon Quest game)!
First of all thank you very much for your comment I really appreciate the kind words. I actually was well aware of the grave connection to dragon quest, but it felt very tacked on when I was talking about Games that clearly inspired adventure of link. I ended up cutting it along with about 30 other bits of information, but I regret doing so.
Of course you knew, I am a fool to think you might have missed it haha! I’ve already watched this video a few times in one day, I would certainly watch the uncut version many more times if you ever post it somewhere!
The old woman in towns doesn't refill your magic meter indefinitely; you specifically get 16 containers filled. So if you're casting a bunch of spells during that filling segment, you'll eventually hit that limit.
This game is very near and dear to my heart as I spent my childhood watching my dad play it, and it turns out there are some things I didn't know about and I just learnt them today. Thanks for the video and all the quality content 🫶🏼
When I was a kid, this is the game that started my lifelong love for Zelda (well…that and the animated series). It was a big game and kind of scary. The large Greek-like temple and strange Horsehead boss. The difficulty and music. It was the first game that felt ‘Epic’ to me. There was so much forgotten merchandise and mysteries surrounding this overlooked masterpiece. Thank you for making another amazing video. Also, I read somewhere that ocarina of time started as a remake of Zelda 2. Not sure if it’s true, but the earliest images of it definitely have a similar design to Link in this game.
If ocarina was a remake of Zelda 2 that would make sense of why the sages are named after the cities. The emphasis on combat mechanics. The look of link. Very interesting I'll have to look into that
@@NESComplexI believe it began with that attempt by Koizumi at doing a 3D remake of Zelda 2 using the Super FX chip on SNES, like you mentioned in video. (Some believe that Super FX Link model from the Giga Leak was from that experiment.) So from there the concept evolved towards Zelda 64, and it's chanbara style swordplay.
What I love about Zelda II is it's a product of its time in terms of the culture. All the other popular classics we play constantly, so we don't think about the 80s. But when you talk about Zelda II, your brain goes back to that time, because that was the last time people really ever talked about it. Its a forgotten classic thats stuck in its time.
Man it’s a shame that thing about links awakening taking place during the raft ride was retconned, that’s actually super cool. Great video as always it was well worth the wait
This game has taunted me since I was 10 years old. Absolutely fascinating information you’ve provided with exceptional quality. This series keeps getting better and better, lovin it. Nice work 👍👍
The “hidden message” of Zelda II is just how simplicity can also give way to complexity! Easy controls, but such an open world you can get lost and find your way again very easily! Ah so good. Love this. You’re a real whiz.
Expert editing, very interesting information, beautiful visuals. I almost feel like I'm watching a TV series. Very well done this was a pleasure to watch.
Thank you for covering this game. It is my favorite in the Zelda series, and has always been the underdog of the series. Nice to see it get some attention.
These are always a treat to watch. While Zelda II isn’t my favorite and falls to other titles in my ranking, it’s an underrated game. It took me a while and I used to not like it, but I came around by the end of the game. It gets way too much hate. Glad to see more declassified!!
@@NESComplex I went crazy over the game when I got downthrust, made things extremely fun. It became one of my fav games until I played Wind Walker and Twilight Princess.
This video should be sitting in the millions. It deserves more attention than where it's at, for sure 😤 Brilliant coverage Complex! My second time viewing 😃🙏
Pause while going over a collapsing bridge causes the sprites on the bridge to go red. Pause while unlocking a door repeats the door sound multiple times
Finally, he uploaded again! I can’t believe that he can go from teaching history at school to making very good content for all of us to watch and enjoy! Keep up the hard work you do every video and let’s get to 100k subscribers!!!!
Awesome video about an amazing game! Zelda 2 is iconic. I never understood the flack that it receives. I learned some awesome tidbits by watching your video, so now I must revisit this gem. Cheers!
Ah Yes.. what a life.. I can relax and watch the new NESComplex piece, which just so happens to be an all-time favorite game. Thoughts go out to folks caught up in war, on the home front or overseas. ✌️
My friend and i stayed in his garage for a whole saturday trying to beat this game and we finally did! It was so hot that summer, I'll never forget it. What a game!!
At this point I don’t think I need to say how great these videos are but I would like to say watching these reminds me of old TH-cam. Where these videos were passion driven and just aiming to be the best it can be. It is also so interesting to see the process behind the development of such a classic, beloved game. Simply incredible
@@NESComplexjust want to say keep at it with these videos would love to see Mario 3, World or even Ocarina of Time an N64 declassified would be amazing! Your videos inspire me to be creative!
Getting a new NESCOMPLEX is like Christmas, it comes once a year (jk) and it's a joyous occasion. As always, thank you for your hard work and wonderful production quality. Can't wait until the next one!
Wow Chris, another masterpiece! I was so happy to see a new video and this one didn’t disappoint. This game is one of my all time favorites despite the hate it often gets. I learned so much from your video I never knew. You are legendary Chris!
Fun fact from a long time fan and viewer: I’ve started this game several times, but never got into it. But your enthusiasm has caused me to suck it up and get down. I have a CRT and the cartridge. Here we effing go.
@@NESComplex yes I did! Was a lot more fun, once I gave it the chance it deserved! Link to the Past will always be my favorite, but it held up as a unique experience!
Once again, Complex nails it out of the park. FANTASTIC job. I've always enjoyed this game when I was a kid. I had NO idea about most of what you have presented. Thank you for this.👏👏👏👏👏👏🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
My Uncle had Zelda 1 & we played it all the time, so we had previous experience before playing Zelda II which I owned this time when I had my own NES in 1992. He owned the Nintendo Player's Guide which he still has today. We used it for other games like Super Mario Bros., Zelda 1, Metroid, & The Goonies II before I got Zelda II which was also in that guide like you showed in the video. I actually had the reissue version of Zelda II which had smoothened graphics. I could say: I have gotten so much better at playing Video Games now from all the experience + being smarter & wiser about what I'm doing; I have that 'present in the mind' thing where it's like 'I know what I'm doing' which I had back then but much improved now. I was never dumbed down either & still not. But with Zelda II, I used to be much better at it, but now when I try to play it, I don't seem to get thru it as well as I used to... Zelda in general can be 'strategically difficult'; fighting thru the difficulty of the enemies & remembering where things are & what you need. That's especially experienced in the next title Zelda: A Link to the Past, & gets even deeper in Zelda: Ocarina of Time (especially since it's 3-D & a bigger world, so you could literally go deeper). When my Uncle Warren played it back then, he had no problem playing Zelda II - he said it was easy. He told me that more recently like maybe a year or so ago when I talked about it with him. I enjoy sharing my experiences with people wherever I could comment.
I always love to hear about her games were part of family. I think like many games they are much easier when you know what you're doing. I feel like Zelda two is not too difficult when you know how to power up quick and when you get the down thrust the game becomes much easier
A video about Zelda II, instant like! I love this game! We've been smart kids back then, I played with my sisters and we realized at some point, that it's better to no kill the guardians, just get the item and go on to save the points for later. Also does ist make fighting them when you're powered up much easier.
I don't usually comment, but this is for the algorithm. Every now and again I'll search for 3-4 channels that post infrequently, yours is one of those channels. I was so excited to see this today. Your research and production quality is amazing man, these are my most sought after retro videos. Hope all is going well, and keep up the great work!
I randomly just reread the manual for the game a couple of days ago. Two items stuck out to me. 1. Was that their would be two Zeldas (which you cover). 2 The manual makes it very clear that all the bad guys in the palaces were placed there by the King of Hyrule. This explained to me why they a. didn't have the same names as the bad guys in the original Zelda and b. why they were so different (in a lot of ways) from the original Zelda. Someone else might have brought this up at this point, but I thought it would be worth sharing.
It created even more questions, though: 1) How did Princess Zelda place all the triforce fragments in the first game? 2) Are the Zelda 1 dungeons all minions of Hyrule's royalty as well, other than Spectacle Rock/Level 9? Why wouldn't they *give* the Triforce pieces to Ganon if they weren't? 3) if 2) is yes, then did Ganon only control the overworld?
Always glad to see an upload from NESComplex. It is clear that a ton of work goes into these. Miss the Retro Rejects podcast. Hope to see another Nintendo Power Time Machine in the future!
You have ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA how much joy you have brought to me and my brothers with ALL your nintendo and SNES videos. We have a playlist of docuvideos and yours are the ones we rewatch the most
Zelda II for me is up there with Zelda 3, maybe a touch of nostalgia as it was my first Zelda game when it came out in the UK in '90, but it was so influential to me. Always recall the incredible artwork
@@dutchschaefer4983wow really? I'm a middle school history teacher and parent and finding time to do something like this for YOU to enjoy for FREE should be appreciated a little bit more. I'm guessing you have no idea the amount of work it takes to teach kids today, let alone make videos like this with top tier production.
Happy to see a new Declassified episode. Made 29 minutes seem like 30 seconds. I always learn so much about games I thought I had heard everything lol.
Dude, FINALLY someone who references Link's Awakening taking place during the crossing from West to East Hyrule! I've been saying this for over 20 years. I saw that same timeline when it came out.
My all time favorite video game. I love everything about Zelda 2, especially the music. I know most people hate it, but when you're 8 years old and there's only two Zelda, this was the best one. I feel the same way about Super Mario Bros 2
Sadly, quick save adds a death to your counter. Also, perhaps as a remnant of the Zelda 2 work done on the SNES, the SNES Test Cartridge's Burn-In mode contains a version of the Zelda 2 title theme. (th-cam.com/video/R2tu6dq0d_I/w-d-xo.html)
This was my favorite Zelda when I was a kid even though I could only barely beat the first palace. I finally beat it as an adult and loved it even more
Zelda II was the first Zelda game I ever played. I talked my little bro into getting it for his birthday not long after it came out. I was such an asshole…I still feel bad about that even 34+ years later. I had heard of the original Zelda, but I didn’t get to play it…or really even see it…until about a year afterward. And after having completed Zelda II by that point, I thought the original sucked, lol. It seemed so primitive by comparison. Zelda II will always be special to me. I still play through it every few years! Edit: Great job on this video! I learned a bunch of stuff I had never heard before. Amazing. This game is a memorable part of my childhood, and it’s really eye opening to discover so many behind the scenes tidbits about it. I spent at least four months in 1989 figuring out how to beat it. I was so proud of myself, that I even called the “Nintendo Hotline” to let the game counselors know that I finally finished it. Lol. The guy on the other end laughed and said great job…or something like that.
Here's a minor random one: If you use the Game Genie code that lets you walk anywhere on the map and get caught by the enemy on the mountain tiles, the battle will be the graveyard setting. Here's one that soft locks the game: When points are racking up after a crystal is placed, and the NEXT amount reaches it's point the instant you exit the screen, the next screen won't load and the screen will just be one color with the music playing. I found this out by complete accident. It's impossible to get this on purpose due to how precise it needs to be.
I remember going to Target with my mom when Zelda II and Super Mario Bros 2 first came out. Shelves were stocked with them and it was such a great moment and now a great memory.
There was a chip shortage during the time Zelda II was being manufactured. I was with my father at K-Mart, saw the game in a box of random stuff, and asked him for it. He told me that it would be one of my Christmas gifts. I spent hours upon hours playing this awesome game learning where everything is. When I finally beat it, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Just like I did when I finished the 2nd quest of the Leg0end of Zelds.
It's such a solid game. And it gets so unfairly treated sometimes. I'm sure making it a Zelda game was a wise financial decision, but I often wonder if it had been themed in some other way if it would have become a totally different franchise with sequels.
Every one of these videos feels like an adventure into a new world, you do a great job at not just informing, but recreating experiences of playing these games to new people.
I was always told that the move from the FDS the NES meant that the water couldn't be animated because the NES version doesn't have CHR RAM. The NES version of Zelda II actually has a few free CHR ROM banks, making it possible to create a ROM hack that can re-create the animated water.
Always love these videos, gives me the feel of old playground discussions. Tons of stuff I wasn't aware of brought up here and for a game I didn't learn to appreciate til later in life am very grateful to get a bit more insight.
I want to thank you for making this video. Yes, this game was incredibly frustrating when I was a child and still somewhat is, but I always found some strange interest in it being so different than the first game. The music I felt was better and with how little details there were with the story and images to go along with it, the game felt a bit sad/isolating. I still always wanted to play it and I still always get chills at the title music.
Just want to say, the vids in this series are extremely well produced, interesting, and entertaining. I watched all the behind the code a while ago so not sure how I missed them. But now I can binge several and they’re new to me. Really well done.
Just a tip, if you plan the use a Game Genie (US version) to max out link, make sure you save and quit and stop usuing the cheat before you get the the max level, otherwise youll get stuck on the level up screen indefinitely, which would force you to reset the console
I had no idea Zelda II released in Japan before Zelda 1 in America. That blows my mind.
I didn't get Zelda 2 when it first came out. I distinctly remember seeing it on the tab at some store (i don't remember which) but i was young. I eventually traded my friend Joey Camacho and finally was able to go on Link's Adventure. Strangely enough, my copy was much more silver than gold. Idk. Though the overworld never really sat right with me and seemed almost like a step backwards from the look of Zelda 1, I loved the action sequences. I still do. Thanks to school yard tips and Nintendo Power, I beat Link's Shadow (and definitely crouched. LOL). Such great memories... What are your memories of the game?
Also.. thank you so much for watching! I’m so close to the 100,000 subscriber milestone. Please do me a favor and share this video with anyone you know who loves NES games or the Zelda franchise. Spread the Nintendo love and help me reach that elusive goal! Thank you! 🍄
If I could subscribe again, I would. However, Shigeru convinced me to smash the like button…..
You’re an awesome chap. Thanks for bringing such awesome gaming content to my life.
Just came across your channel so have another sub
You deserve 1,000,000+ subscribers. Your videos are amazing! Your editing is sooo good.
Too many people hate on this game. This was easily one of the greatest NES games. It was the 8th best selling NES game. You don't sell that many copies by being a bad game. All the hate comes from people who weren't around when the game came out. They rely too much on save states and rewinds to save the progress every time they scratch their butts. Gaming use to be get good and stop crying.
For those of you who trash this game because it's not as good as modern games, will you please also compare the Ford model t to the Lexus LFA (the hindenberg to the concord / the steam locomotive to a mag lev bullet train). You are all delusional.
Great channel dude! You need to post more often 💯
The quality of the Declassified series is out of this world, way worth the wait between episodes for high class documentary quality. Appriciate the hard work and effort you put into this.
Thank you for noticing! I definitely put my heart and soul into every episode. I want them to stand the test of time and really bring us back to the period
Yes...i loved the Chrono Trigger video
@@NESComplex every time I see a new episode on TH-cam I get a little thrill.
Awesome vid!
Completely agree
My man, your production quality is always through the roof and you still keep topping yourself. Great research too. In other words you make other channels look bad... and I like it.
I'm excited to share everything I found!
Totally agree with this guy - your channel is epic.
Declassified always surprises me. I thought I knew pretty much all the history and secrets for most of these games but you always surprise me with facts and secrets I didnt know.
"Is it fun" is my other favorite series you do, itd be awesome to see some more of those too.
Hope you hit 100k soon, your channel is way better than 99% of the retro game channels repeating the same facts over and over and you should have a million subs!
Thank you so much for the kind words. I dig as deep as I can and consume EVERYTHING I can find before making one of these
Just wanted to let you know how much these masterpieces mean to me, whenever I have anything going on, I put these on, relax, and all my problems of the day just melt away. Please never stop making these.
I don't ever want these videos to end. Some of the best content on the internet
Seriously, his videos have top notch editing and are so much fun. I rewatch his stuff regularly.
That means a lot. Thank you!
Damn! High praise! Thank you!!!
Zelda 2 is my favorite in the series when it's about atmosphere. It really feels like a more grown up and more grim Zelda while still having that mystery and wonder.
I agree it definitely has a darker vibe
I find it to be better than OoT. And no, I don't say that to be contrary. I genuinely don't like it and I played it new as a young adult.
Yes it has a very Mediterranean atmosphere. I always remember the art in the booklets being very dark and gritty. The townsfolk also were drawn as real people and not silly cartoonish. The breath of the wild was the first recent game to return to real people.
Zelda 2 is my favorite because of this to. I also like Links Awakening because it's a twisted dream inspired by Twin Peaks. I like the Game and Watch one the best.
@@Heymrk
I feel like the top down view of the original and Link to the past isnt as dynamic and fun to replay as Legend of Zelda 2.
It's a game I still return to every now and then, I'm pushing over 40 years of age. The original and Link to the past...I've played them and i recognise their value as classics, but i just don't feel like they are as fun. I like using downward and upward thrusts, the swordplay of Zelda 2. I know i guess It's a minority opinion, but Zelda 2 is definitely my favourite of the franchise.
When I first played it as a kid, I liked Zelda 2, but didn’t love it because the difficulty curve was so high. Sometime around college, when my gaming skills were greater, I realized that it’s my favorite video game of all time-the combat platforming engine is unparalleled, with the idea of both high and low attack and defense, the towns are more numerous and interesting, and the dark and mysterious feel make every play through a real adventure. It has lots of flaws, and if I could remake it today, there are many things I would remove, or change, or expand upon, but it directly inspired video games that I’ve personally made, and I know a lot of people love it like I do.
This video is an excellent service to humanity, and I thank you so much for highlighting such an underrated game, and teaching me lots of things that even I didn’t know, especially around the production of the game, and its connection to other games and mythology. I had to rewind and rewatch parts of the video many times in amazement! I know this video was a colossal effort, like all your Declassified videos, and I truly appreciate all the work you’ve done for fans of this dark horse in the greatest game series of all time.
You did miss one minor thing, the explicit Dragon Quest reference at one of the graves that was removed in the English version (and mirrored in a Dragon Quest game)!
First of all thank you very much for your comment I really appreciate the kind words. I actually was well aware of the grave connection to dragon quest, but it felt very tacked on when I was talking about Games that clearly inspired adventure of link. I ended up cutting it along with about 30 other bits of information, but I regret doing so.
Of course you knew, I am a fool to think you might have missed it haha! I’ve already watched this video a few times in one day, I would certainly watch the uncut version many more times if you ever post it somewhere!
The old woman in towns doesn't refill your magic meter indefinitely; you specifically get 16 containers filled. So if you're casting a bunch of spells during that filling segment, you'll eventually hit that limit.
red potions work the same way
@@misterturkturkle Yep! But they don’t refill as much as the old woman; I think it’s 8 containers for red potions.
@WaveBirdDash its twice how many you have iirc.
You never fail in making consistently interesting, funny, entertaining deep dives into the world of video games.
Hi Mort! 👋
@@captaindb4998 👋😊
Thanks Mr. Garage! I appreciate you so much! Lol. See you soon bro 😎
This game is very near and dear to my heart as I spent my childhood watching my dad play it, and it turns out there are some things I didn't know about and I just learnt them today. Thanks for the video and all the quality content 🫶🏼
How old is ur dad? Just wondering what year this was and how old/what I was doing that time.
I'm glad I could share some new things with you. Also that's very cool that you have that memory with your dad.
This series gives me the same feeling that reading Nintendo Power gave me as a kid.
Another excellent video, with amazing production!
Thanks Dan! The next Declassified episode is actually going to be on Nintendo Power... #inception
When I was a kid, this is the game that started my lifelong love for Zelda (well…that and the animated series). It was a big game and kind of scary. The large Greek-like temple and strange Horsehead boss. The difficulty and music. It was the first game that felt ‘Epic’ to me. There was so much forgotten merchandise and mysteries surrounding this overlooked masterpiece. Thank you for making another amazing video.
Also, I read somewhere that ocarina of time started as a remake of Zelda 2. Not sure if it’s true, but the earliest images of it definitely have a similar design to Link in this game.
If ocarina was a remake of Zelda 2 that would make sense of why the sages are named after the cities. The emphasis on combat mechanics. The look of link. Very interesting I'll have to look into that
@@NESComplexI believe it began with that attempt by Koizumi at doing a 3D remake of Zelda 2 using the Super FX chip on SNES, like you mentioned in video. (Some believe that Super FX Link model from the Giga Leak was from that experiment.) So from there the concept evolved towards Zelda 64, and it's chanbara style swordplay.
What I love about Zelda II is it's a product of its time in terms of the culture. All the other popular classics we play constantly, so we don't think about the 80s. But when you talk about Zelda II, your brain goes back to that time, because that was the last time people really ever talked about it. Its a forgotten classic thats stuck in its time.
That's a really good point! It becomes a time capsule
Wow!.....well said 😢
Man it’s a shame that thing about links awakening taking place during the raft ride was retconned, that’s actually super cool. Great video as always it was well worth the wait
I agree. I kind of wish that was the real lore. It makes that little raft ride so much more impactful
@@NESComplex They had to redesign Zelda in the Oracle games to change it. That Zelda had brown hair in LttP, while the Zelda 2 Zelda has red hair.
This game has taunted me since I was 10 years old. Absolutely fascinating information you’ve provided with exceptional quality. This series keeps getting better and better, lovin it. Nice work 👍👍
I'm glad I was able to find some things you didn't know
The “hidden message” of Zelda II is just how simplicity can also give way to complexity! Easy controls, but such an open world you can get lost and find your way again very easily! Ah so good. Love this. You’re a real whiz.
I always wanted to be a whiz
Expert editing, very interesting information, beautiful visuals. I almost feel like I'm watching a TV series. Very well done this was a pleasure to watch.
Thank you! My favorite comment of the day!
This game is severely underrated. Thanks for covering it!
It really is! Of all the games for the NES I wish they would do a remake of this one. I have so many ideas
Thank you for covering this game. It is my favorite in the Zelda series, and has always been the underdog of the series. Nice to see it get some attention.
These are always a treat to watch. While Zelda II isn’t my favorite and falls to other titles in my ranking, it’s an underrated game. It took me a while and I used to not like it, but I came around by the end of the game. It gets way too much hate. Glad to see more declassified!!
It grows on you. It really opens up once you get downthrust. Then it's super fun
Def underrated and not that hard as some say. Once you learn wich way to go in the palace's it gets a lot easier and all the bosses are fairly easy.
@@NESComplex I went crazy over the game when I got downthrust, made things extremely fun. It became one of my fav games until I played Wind Walker and Twilight Princess.
This video should be sitting in the millions. It deserves more attention than where it's at, for sure 😤
Brilliant coverage Complex! My second time viewing 😃🙏
Pause while going over a collapsing bridge causes the sprites on the bridge to go red.
Pause while unlocking a door repeats the door sound multiple times
Good factoids. Thanks for sharing them here.
Finally, he uploaded again! I can’t believe that he can go from teaching history at school to making very good content for all of us to watch and enjoy! Keep up the hard work you do every video and let’s get to 100k subscribers!!!!
Thank you!! I'm getting close 😁
Thank you!!
Awesome video about an amazing game! Zelda 2 is iconic. I never understood the flack that it receives. I learned some awesome tidbits by watching your video, so now I must revisit this gem. Cheers!
I hope some of those tidbits give you an even greater appreciation for the game
Ah Yes.. what a life..
I can relax and watch the new NESComplex piece, which just so happens to be an all-time favorite game. Thoughts go out to folks caught up in war, on the home front or overseas. ✌️
I know. Crazy times. I try to make these videos partially to remind us of simplicity. Maybe give us something to strive for
My friend and i stayed in his garage for a whole saturday trying to beat this game and we finally did! It was so hot that summer, I'll never forget it. What a game!!
Production quality and attention to detail is unmatched on these declassification videos. Wow - really enjoyed this.
Wow, thanks!
At this point I don’t think I need to say how great these videos are but I would like to say watching these reminds me of old TH-cam. Where these videos were passion driven and just aiming to be the best it can be.
It is also so interesting to see the process behind the development of such a classic, beloved game.
Simply incredible
Yes I waited so long for this Zelda II is incredible!
I agree! It's greatly overlooked! I always thought it truly felt like an adventure
@@NESComplex I felt the exact same way a bit of a hot take but I think it’s better than a Link to the Past just barely though!
@Gamingwithahandicap I like it better than A Link to the Past too
@@NESComplexjust want to say keep at it with these videos would love to see Mario 3, World or even Ocarina of Time an N64 declassified would be amazing! Your videos inspire me to be creative!
No new videos in 9 months, what a bummer. Best retro gaming channel on youtube by far.
I'm not gone. I'll be back
Getting a new NESCOMPLEX is like Christmas, it comes once a year (jk) and it's a joyous occasion. As always, thank you for your hard work and wonderful production quality. Can't wait until the next one!
You're not wrong 🎄
Zelda II is my favorite NES game, hands down. It's always nice to learn something new about it, thanks for such a great video.
Wow Chris, another masterpiece! I was so happy to see a new video and this one didn’t disappoint. This game is one of my all time favorites despite the hate it often gets. I learned so much from your video I never knew. You are legendary Chris!
I always appreciate your comments Tim! Thank you
11:02 Both that laugh and the "woop" sound that Link makes when he gets hit are originally from Kung Fu.
Came here to post this. Level 4 midget boss laugh.
Pure magic, your whole style reeks of passion, perfectionism and true artistry, i applaud u my man!
Wow, thank you!
Fun fact from a long time fan and viewer:
I’ve started this game several times, but never got into it. But your enthusiasm has caused me to suck it up and get down.
I have a CRT and the cartridge.
Here we effing go.
Let me know... did you manage to do it?
@@NESComplex yes I did! Was a lot more fun, once I gave it the chance it deserved!
Link to the Past will always be my favorite, but it held up as a unique experience!
Once again, Complex nails it out of the park. FANTASTIC job. I've always enjoyed this game when I was a kid. I had NO idea about most of what you have presented. Thank you for this.👏👏👏👏👏👏🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
I hope it adds more appreciation for this game
My Uncle had Zelda 1 & we played it all the time, so we had previous experience before playing Zelda II which I owned this time when I had my own NES in 1992. He owned the Nintendo Player's Guide which he still has today. We used it for other games like Super Mario Bros., Zelda 1, Metroid, & The Goonies II before I got Zelda II which was also in that guide like you showed in the video. I actually had the reissue version of Zelda II which had smoothened graphics. I could say: I have gotten so much better at playing Video Games now from all the experience + being smarter & wiser about what I'm doing; I have that 'present in the mind' thing where it's like 'I know what I'm doing' which I had back then but much improved now. I was never dumbed down either & still not. But with Zelda II, I used to be much better at it, but now when I try to play it, I don't seem to get thru it as well as I used to... Zelda in general can be 'strategically difficult'; fighting thru the difficulty of the enemies & remembering where things are & what you need. That's especially experienced in the next title Zelda: A Link to the Past, & gets even deeper in Zelda: Ocarina of Time (especially since it's 3-D & a bigger world, so you could literally go deeper). When my Uncle Warren played it back then, he had no problem playing Zelda II - he said it was easy. He told me that more recently like maybe a year or so ago when I talked about it with him. I enjoy sharing my experiences with people wherever I could comment.
I always love to hear about her games were part of family. I think like many games they are much easier when you know what you're doing. I feel like Zelda two is not too difficult when you know how to power up quick and when you get the down thrust the game becomes much easier
I really like your unique take on exploring games and the history that accompanies it. And yes it was worth the wait.
Thank you Anthony!
A video about Zelda II, instant like! I love this game!
We've been smart kids back then, I played with my sisters and we realized at some point, that it's better to no kill the guardians, just get the item and go on to save the points for later. Also does ist make fighting them when you're powered up much easier.
Your videos are always worth the wait. This might be your finest work yet!
Wow, thanks! I always give it 110%
I don't usually comment, but this is for the algorithm. Every now and again I'll search for 3-4 channels that post infrequently, yours is one of those channels. I was so excited to see this today. Your research and production quality is amazing man, these are my most sought after retro videos. Hope all is going well, and keep up the great work!
Thank you so much for the kind words. And thank you for helping out with the algorithm. I appreciate it
I randomly just reread the manual for the game a couple of days ago. Two items stuck out to me. 1. Was that their would be two Zeldas (which you cover). 2 The manual makes it very clear that all the bad guys in the palaces were placed there by the King of Hyrule. This explained to me why they a. didn't have the same names as the bad guys in the original Zelda and b. why they were so different (in a lot of ways) from the original Zelda. Someone else might have brought this up at this point, but I thought it would be worth sharing.
It created even more questions, though:
1) How did Princess Zelda place all the triforce fragments in the first game?
2) Are the Zelda 1 dungeons all minions of Hyrule's royalty as well, other than Spectacle Rock/Level 9? Why wouldn't they *give* the Triforce pieces to Ganon if they weren't?
3) if 2) is yes, then did Ganon only control the overworld?
Always glad to see an upload from NESComplex. It is clear that a ton of work goes into these. Miss the Retro Rejects podcast. Hope to see another Nintendo Power Time Machine in the future!
My day is now AMAZING! Thanks NesComplex!!
Hahaha! Thank you!!
Amazing work, you know.. this can video could live on for a 1000 years and be enjoyed by generations into the future, the quality is there!
Thank you! I very intentionally try to be timeless. I try not to have current trends or talk about current dates
You have ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA how much joy you have brought to me and my brothers with ALL your nintendo and SNES videos. We have a playlist of docuvideos and yours are the ones we rewatch the most
That's so cool! I can't think of NES without thinking of my brother too
Zelda II for me is up there with Zelda 3, maybe a touch of nostalgia as it was my first Zelda game when it came out in the UK in '90, but it was so influential to me.
Always recall the incredible artwork
There is no Zelda 3
The artwork is my favorite in the entire series!!
I love this series so much. I'd happily watch an episode that's based on pretty any classic game ever released.
These are always so well done, and this one is no exception. Thanks!
@@dutchschaefer4983wow really? I'm a middle school history teacher and parent and finding time to do something like this for YOU to enjoy for FREE should be appreciated a little bit more. I'm guessing you have no idea the amount of work it takes to teach kids today, let alone make videos like this with top tier production.
Glad you like them! Thanks!
One of the few NES games that holds up to this day. We need another Zelda game in the vain of this or a graphical "Remake".
Heck ya! I want to remake for this game perhaps more than any other
This was an awesome episode, I always learn things from your videos. I think I this is my favorite Declassified episode yet! Great work!!!
Thanks again man! You're the best!
Dude I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again! This is like a modern day player’s guide, I love it.
Man, these are always a treat to see. Love these deep dives into what made these games tick.
Thank you I really appreciate it
The nes declassified series has to be the most entertaining yet very informative and well put together video game documentary’s ever
Your videos are always quality and definitely worth the wait.
I appreciate that greatly!
Happy to see a new Declassified episode. Made 29 minutes seem like 30 seconds. I always learn so much about games I thought I had heard everything lol.
Thank you Tyler! I hope to see you do another secrets & history
Yes, so much polish and production quality. My man.
Gregg? Is that my buddy Gregg! Duuuude! I miss you man!
15:00 That (Bagu -> Bug) part breaks my heart. Been playing this for decades and I never noticed.
I think better communication between America and Japan would have resulted in a lot of minor improvements
So glad you're back with a new video! 😊😊
Me too!!
The anticipation has been killing me!!
Glad you survived bro!
This is great. I love this series man.
😁😁😁. Thanks so much!
Dude, FINALLY someone who references Link's Awakening taking place during the crossing from West to East Hyrule! I've been saying this for over 20 years. I saw that same timeline when it came out.
Your editing skills are incredible
Thank you so much!!
One of my all time favorite games. Nostalgia overload!!!!
Damn man! I learned something at every minute, your researching skills are superb! I love Zelda 2! It’s a shame that Miyamoto shuns it
Hopefully it gives you an even greater appreciation for the game
My all time favorite video game. I love everything about Zelda 2, especially the music. I know most people hate it, but when you're 8 years old and there's only two Zelda, this was the best one. I feel the same way about Super Mario Bros 2
Sadly, quick save adds a death to your counter. Also, perhaps as a remnant of the Zelda 2 work done on the SNES, the SNES Test Cartridge's Burn-In mode contains a version of the Zelda 2 title theme. (th-cam.com/video/R2tu6dq0d_I/w-d-xo.html)
That's AMAZING! I wish I'd known about THAT!!! Do you have any more info on the test cart?
This was my favorite Zelda when I was a kid even though I could only barely beat the first palace. I finally beat it as an adult and loved it even more
Damn dude really went above and beyond on this Zelda 2 mini doc, amazing job NES complex!
Thank you Cliff
I can't believe you had new things to tell me about this game! I've played this since it was new!
One of my favorite games of all time. I remember messing around with the fairy glitch and ending up in the middle of the water. Was nuts!
Zelda II was the first Zelda game I ever played. I talked my little bro into getting it for his birthday not long after it came out. I was such an asshole…I still feel bad about that even 34+ years later. I had heard of the original Zelda, but I didn’t get to play it…or really even see it…until about a year afterward. And after having completed Zelda II by that point, I thought the original sucked, lol. It seemed so primitive by comparison. Zelda II will always be special to me. I still play through it every few years!
Edit: Great job on this video! I learned a bunch of stuff I had never heard before. Amazing. This game is a memorable part of my childhood, and it’s really eye opening to discover so many behind the scenes tidbits about it. I spent at least four months in 1989 figuring out how to beat it. I was so proud of myself, that I even called the “Nintendo Hotline” to let the game counselors know that I finally finished it. Lol. The guy on the other end laughed and said great job…or something like that.
Here's a minor random one: If you use the Game Genie code that lets you walk anywhere on the map and get caught by the enemy on the mountain tiles, the battle will be the graveyard setting.
Here's one that soft locks the game: When points are racking up after a crystal is placed, and the NEXT amount reaches it's point the instant you exit the screen, the next screen won't load and the screen will just be one color with the music playing. I found this out by complete accident. It's impossible to get this on purpose due to how precise it needs to be.
So cool! Thanks for sharing!
Zelda II was the first game I got with my NES, besides the Super Mario Bros/Duck Hunt cart. I was immediately hooked. I loved it. Still do.
The Return of NESComplex - The Legend!
Thanks! I'm never really gone I just take my time
Awesome video! Just when you think you can't learn anymore about these classics, you step up and deliver!
Thank you! There's about 30 things that I left out because the video was getting out of control.
I remember going to Target with my mom when Zelda II and Super Mario Bros 2 first came out. Shelves were stocked with them and it was such a great moment and now a great memory.
You had target back then too? Were you in Minnesota or California?
Muncie, Indiana! Love your videos! Thanks for making them.@@NESComplex
This series was already great but this was a really outstanding episode
This series is one of the best on TH-cam!
Thanks a lot Trevor! I really appreciate the kind words
There was a chip shortage during the time Zelda II was being manufactured. I was with my father at K-Mart, saw the game in a box of random stuff, and asked him for it. He told me that it would be one of my Christmas gifts. I spent hours upon hours playing this awesome game learning where everything is. When I finally beat it, I felt a sense of accomplishment. Just like I did when I finished the 2nd quest of the Leg0end of Zelds.
Ahhh Kmart. The good old days of blue light specials
Zelda 2 was very advanced game on 8-bit console.
It's also super underrated.
I love this game so much ❤!
It's such a solid game. And it gets so unfairly treated sometimes. I'm sure making it a Zelda game was a wise financial decision, but I often wonder if it had been themed in some other way if it would have become a totally different franchise with sequels.
Every one of these videos feels like an adventure into a new world, you do a great job at not just informing, but recreating experiences of playing these games to new people.
Literally the one that got me into the Zelda series. Didn't like 1 at first, and only went back to 1 after LTTP came out.
So worth the wait! Been playing this game for ages and I still learned something new
Awesome! Mission accomplished
Zelda 2 was one of my Top 5 Favorite Games ever when it came out in the late 1980's!
Excellent job!! The quality and research done to accomplish this is impressive and much appreciated! You truly are a master at what you do 😎
I was always told that the move from the FDS the NES meant that the water couldn't be animated because the NES version doesn't have CHR RAM. The NES version of Zelda II actually has a few free CHR ROM banks, making it possible to create a ROM hack that can re-create the animated water.
Always love these videos, gives me the feel of old playground discussions. Tons of stuff I wasn't aware of brought up here and for a game I didn't learn to appreciate til later in life am very grateful to get a bit more insight.
Thanks a lot! I definitely am always trying to take us back to those early days
This is the best Zelda 2 review I have ever seen.
Yes, like everyone says, the QUALITY of these videos are world class!
Thank you for the kind words. I just want to do the games justice
I want to thank you for making this video. Yes, this game was incredibly frustrating when I was a child and still somewhat is, but I always found some strange interest in it being so different than the first game.
The music I felt was better and with how little details there were with the story and images to go along with it, the game felt a bit sad/isolating. I still always wanted to play it and I still always get chills at the title music.
I feel like it's one NES game that would benefit the most from a remake
Just want to say, the vids in this series are extremely well produced, interesting, and entertaining. I watched all the behind the code a while ago so not sure how I missed them. But now I can binge several and they’re new to me. Really well done.
Just a tip, if you plan the use a Game Genie (US version) to max out link, make sure you save and quit and stop usuing the cheat before you get the the max level, otherwise youll get stuck on the level up screen indefinitely, which would force you to reset the console
Love all the detail in your videos. It's always worth the wait!
My favorite Zelda NES game.
Been a little bit since I was stoked for a video. Zelda 2 is highly underrated. I loved this game as a kid.
I agree! It's a fantastic game. Do you still like it as an adult?
Nice, you snuck in the best Zelda 1 commercial. TEKTITES!!
Thank goodness this series isnt dead, thanks!
Definitely not dead. I'm working on several more