# Zelda II: The Adventure of Link **Release Year:** 1987 (Japan), 1988 (North America, Europe) **Platform:** Nintendo Entertainment System (NES), Famicom Disk System, Game Boy Advance, Virtual Console (Wii, 3DS, Wii U), Nintendo Switch Online **Meta Description:** **Tags:** Action, RPG, Platformer, Single-Player, Retro, Fantasy *Zelda II: The Adventure of Link*, known as *The Legend of Zelda 2: Link no Bōken* in Japan, is a 1987 action-RPG developed and published by Nintendo for the Famicom Disk System (1987) and NES (1988). The second *Zelda* game, designed by Shigeru Miyamoto and others, shifts from the top-down exploration of *The Legend of Zelda* (1986) to a hybrid of side-scrolling combat and overworld navigation. Set years after the first game, Link, aged 16, must collect six crystals to awaken Princess Zelda from a magical sleep and prevent Ganon’s resurrection by defeating the Guardian in the Great Palace. Featuring seven palaces, RPG mechanics (experience, levels, magic), and side-scrolling battles, it uses 8-bit visuals and a soundtrack by Akito Nakatsuka. It sold over 4.3 million copies but received mixed reviews (*Nintendo Power*: 4/5) for its high difficulty and departure from the original’s formula. Re-released on Game Boy Advance (*Classic NES Series*, 2004), Virtual Console, and Nintendo Switch Online (2019). ## Why Play Zelda II: The Adventure of Link? *Zelda II* blends side-scrolling platforming with RPG elements, letting Link explore Hyrule’s overworld and enter towns, caves, and seven palaces in 2D perspective. Players level up Attack, Magic, and Life stats using experience points, cast spells (e.g., Shield, Fire, Thunder), and wield a sword with techniques like up/down thrusts. The game’s non-linear overworld hides secrets, while palaces challenge with tough enemies (e.g., Iron Knuckles) and bosses like Barba. Gameplay lasts 6-10 hours (12-20 for completion), with a battery save (NES) or password system (Famicom). Its unique mechanics and atmospheric design make it a must-play for retro ROM and action-RPG fans, though its steep difficulty, cryptic progression, and limited lives (Game Over sends players to the starting temple) may frustrate some. ## Game Features - Play as Link across Hyrule’s overworld and 7 palaces - Level up Attack, Magic, Life with experience; cast 8 spells (Jump, Fairy, Reflect) - Wield sword and shield with up/down thrust techniques - Explore towns for clues, items (e.g., Water of Life, Hammer), and heart/magic containers - Battle enemies (Moblins, Stalfos) and bosses (Horsehead, Thunderbird) - Experience authentic NES gameplay on our retro ROM platform, *Classic NES Series* (GBA), or Nintendo Switch Online ## Play Zelda II: The Adventure of Link Online Embark on the adventure today! Our website, Classic Joy Games, lets you play *Zelda II: The Adventure of Link* instantly with no downloads, optimized for modern browsers using NES emulators. Alternatively, enjoy it on Nintendo Switch Online, Virtual Console (Wii, 3DS, Wii U), or sites like RetroGames.cz or EmulatorGames.net. Physical copies are available on eBay/Amazon ($20-$60). Ideal for fans of retro ROMs and action-RPG classics! Note: For emulation, use Nestopia or Mesen for optimal performance; expect minor slowdown in crowded palace rooms. Join players worldwide and enjoy *Zelda II: The Adventure of Link* on Classic Joy Games. Start your quest now and awaken Princess Zelda to secure Link’s legacy!