Combat in Link's Awakening Link's Awakening guide, walkthrough

Last update: 04 November 2019

On this page, you will find useful information about combat in The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening, as well as a brief description of each weapon and attacks that you can perform, such as spin attack and bomb arrows.

Unlike the original, the game does not have a map divided into individual segments. On the Nintendo Switch version, each region of the Koholint Island folds into the other, which creates a more open feel. You have a little more freedom of movement, and a dedicated sword and shield button, so the combat is really not that complicated. As you progress in the game, you will find new equipment that you'll be able to assign to the additional buttons and use them during the battle.

The first thing you should know about defeated opponents is that they respawn after a while. If you don't want to fight them, you can always evade by quickly escaping to a further region of the map. Obviously, this rule does not apply to Bosses and almost every Mini-Bosses.

Initially, your only weapon is a sword. You can perform a spin attack, by pressing the B button and releasing it when it's charged, thus dealing more damage. Eventually you'll be able to buy bombs and a set of bow and arrows. Bomb arrows can be created by equipping the Bow and Bombs, and pressing both buttons at the same time.

A bomb can be planted in a designated place or thrown at opponents. To do so, pick it up by pressing the A button and throw it by pressing the A button again in the desired direction.

Some Moblins and Sword Stalfos are shielded. To get a hit on them, you first have to parry their attacks with your shield to open them up for a strike.

After completing the trading sequence, you will get Boomerang. It's worth having it because it's the most effective weapon in the game. It deals a lot of damage and can stun enemies. It is also the only weapon that destroys Sparks, fireballs that circle around the walls in Dungeons.

It is also worth to collect Secret Seashells. You will receive Koholint Sword in the Seashell Mansion as a reward for collecting 40 shells. This sword not only deals more damage, but it can also fire energy beams at full health.