SNES Classic review: The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda series is one of Nintendo's longest-running franchises. The game series stars Link as he explores dungeons to help restore the Kingdom that Zelda helps rule. The many games in the series also have a very long and somewhat complex timeline where some games take place in worlds that Link lost to the series main antagonist Gannon. This SNES title also has a sequel on the 3DS portable platform which is excellent though a bit short and on the easy side.

This game like many others takes place in Hyrule and starts in the middle of the night. Link is sleeping and Zelda is calling out for help. Link's uncle picks up his sword and shield telling Link not to follow on his way out. Then Link immediately sets out after his uncle... You find him inside a secret passage injured and he gives Link his sword and shield. He tasks you with saving Zelda and then dies, Link without any emoting sets off into the castle proper.

You eventually rescue Zelda while fighting corrupted palace guards and collecting magical items for your journey. Link then gets tasked to find the sword of evils bane AKA the Master Sword. First, he has to find three pendants each found in elaborate puzzle filled dungeons guarded by a boss monster at the end. With the three pendants in hand the Master Sword will be yours.

Zelda games in general tend to guard the plot and story for when it needs you to do something and while this game is no exception it does it well enough that you’re never lost. If you do find yourself lost there is a handy world map often marked with your next destination? Dungeons also have their own map systems in place but are not as reliable in some cases. Boss battles can be challenging but rarely frustrating as that dungeon's special item are usually key to beating them.

In the end, however, this title still stands out as a masterpiece of world and dungeon design not to mention solid gameplay. This game cemented the Zelda formula while also advancing it to new levels. As with all SNES era games, the graphics are dated but still stand out as among some of the best the system has to offer; mixed with iconic scores you have an adventure that is hard to beat even today. 9.75/10