Kotaku Explains Why Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is the Best Zelda Game

It’s no secret around these parts that I adore The Adventure of Link. While it doesn’t always occupy my #1 overall game in the series mantra, it’s certainly up there and has been at the top of my list on many occasions. A user at Kotaku posted an article defending the game, making a bold statement that it is the best in the series. Why?

“Sure, newer games have better stories, gameplay, graphics and so forth, but this is the Zelda game I always find myself going back to play when I have spare time.

This is the only Zelda game in which Link learns actual magic – not just using magical items, he learns to use magic. That’s right, the Link of Zelda II is a wizard.

This is the first Zelda game in which Link learned actual sword-fighting techniques from sword masters. This is something that wouldn’t show up again in games for years.

This is the first Zelda game with Shadow Link. The greatest challenge in this game is getting all the way to the end and learning to defeat yourself.

This could even be said to be the first Zelda game with an alternate timeline, as every time you die, the game reminds you that Ganon has been resurrected and evil reigns.

This is – as of this moment anyway – the Zelda game with the largest world map. The only other game that even came close was Wind Waker, and most of that was water. Yes, the map was seen from far away Final Fantasy-style and you only got to experience it up close through generic random enemy encounters, but that was due to the limitations of the system. It had several towns, plenty of caves to explore and random hidden areas with abandoned ruins. Who knew Hyrule had a Stonehenge?”

I agree with much of the reasoning presented. He has more present in the actual article, though it is a bit rough around the edges. What do you think?