Link's Awakening DX

The DX version of this game (which was released for Gameboy in 1993) is one that takes advantage of the graphics capabilities of Gameboy Color. As with the Legend of Zelda, much of the appeal of the game is in its great story. It starts with Link sailing on a raft. There is a storm, the raft is hit by lightning and Link becomes unconscious. He dreams.

In the dream, Link is washed ashore on Koholint Island, where he encounters the girl Marin. A Wind Fish (a whale that can fly) has created Link's dream, but has been invaded by evil monsters. Link needs to wake the Wind Fish in order to end the dream and escape. To do so, he has to collect the 8 instruments of the Syrens from 8 dungeons and then head to the 9th location.

There are the usual transitory power-ups - Guardian Acorn and Piece of Power - that reduce damage to Link and double the damage that his sword does to bosses. Try to acquire the red and blue Tunics, as they do the same except that effects are permanent with the tunics. There are also lots of puzzles to solve.

The 9th location is the Wind Fish egg, where Link has to beat the Nightmare Boss to wake the Wind Fish. According to my kids, this is a great Boss with 6 different appearances! Why do they like this game so much? They find it challenging and humorous, and of course appreciate its associations with Zelda. Link's Awakening DX is a classic!