The Legend of Zelda Link's Awakening DX is an action-adventure title released by Nintendo in 1998 for the Game Boy Color. It is a color-rich update of the original 1993 Game Boy classic, developed by Nintendo EAD under the direction of Takashi Tezuka. The story follows Link as he washes ashore on the mysterious Koholint Island after a violent storm wrecks his ship. To return home, he must wake the Wind Fish, a giant whale-like creature sleeping inside a massive egg atop Mount Tamaranch. The game stands out as the first Zelda entry on a handheld system and the first to take place outside of Hyrule. Its dreamlike setting, quirky characters, and emotional story gave the series a fresh tone. The DX version adds full color support, a new exclusive dungeon called the Color Dungeon, and printer compatibility for the Game Boy Printer accessory, making it a definitive version of a beloved portable adventure.
Updated: Jun 22, 2026
Screenshots

1 MB · GB / GBC ROMs
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Specifications
| Platform | GB / GBC ROMs |
|---|---|
| Genre | Action |
| File Size | 1 MB |
| Release Year | 1998 |
| Developer | Nintendo EAD |
| Updated | Jun 22, 2026 |
Overview
The Legend of Zelda Link's Awakening DX is an action-adventure title released by Nintendo in 1998 for the Game Boy Color. It is a color-rich update of the original 1993 Game Boy classic, developed by Nintendo EAD under the direction of Takashi Tezuka. The story follows Link as he washes ashore on the mysterious Koholint Island after a violent storm wrecks his ship. To return home, he must wake the Wind Fish, a giant whale-like creature sleeping inside a massive egg atop Mount Tamaranch. The game stands out as the first Zelda entry on a handheld system and the first to take place outside of Hyrule. Its dreamlike setting, quirky characters, and emotional story gave the series a fresh tone. The DX version adds full color support, a new exclusive dungeon called the Color Dungeon, and printer compatibility for the Game Boy Printer accessory, making it a definitive version of a beloved portable adventure.
Players guide Link through nine dungeons scattered across Koholint Island, collecting eight musical instruments needed to awaken the Wind Fish. Combat uses a sword and shield system, while puzzles rely on classic Zelda items like the boomerang, hookshot, Pegasus Boots, and bombs. The Color Dungeon, exclusive to the DX release, rewards players with a powerful red or blue tunic that boosts attack or defense. A photographer character lets players capture 12 special memories that can be printed using the Game Boy Printer. Side quests include a memorable trading sequence, fishing minigames, and a crane game inside the village shop. The world blends Zelda staples with playful cameos from Mario, Yoshi, Kirby, and other Nintendo franchises, giving the island a charming and surreal personality. With its haunting soundtrack, clever dungeon design, and bittersweet ending, Link's Awakening DX remains one of the most cherished handheld games ever made and a true highlight of the Game Boy Color library.