The Legend of Zelda

Link explores Hyrule from an overhead perspective. Each screen contains enemies, obstacles, secrets, or routes to other areas, and Link can move in four directions, attack with his sword, and use one selected secondary item. The main quest requires finding eight numbered dungeons, defeating their guardians, and collecting the Triforce fragments inside. Dungeons contain keys, maps, compasses, special items, and bosses; items such as the Raft, Ladder, and Recorder open new routes in the overworld. After the eight fragments are gathered, Link enters the more difficult Death Mountain area to confront Ganon and rescue Zelda.

Link

The hero controlled by the player. Link explores Hyrule, collects equipment, defeats dungeon bosses, and assembles the Triforce of Wisdom.

Princess Zelda

The princess of Hyrule, who divides the Triforce of Wisdom into eight pieces before Ganon captures her.

Ganon

The principal antagonist and ruler of the Demon Kingdom. He holds the Triforce of Power and guards Zelda in the final area.

Impa

Zelda's nurse and adviser, whose warning begins Link's mission in the game's story.

Search every overworld screen for burnable trees, bombable walls, stairways, and hidden merchants. The starting sword is found in the cave at the opening screen; collecting the White Sword and Magical Sword substantially improves Link's attack power. Dungeon order is flexible, but the Raft, Ladder, Recorder, and other dungeon items unlock specific routes. Buy a Blue Ring when possible, keep a supply of bombs and medicine, and use the map and compass to avoid missing keys or the Triforce fragment. In the final Death Mountain dungeon, mark unexplored passages carefully because its layout is larger and more demanding than the earlier dungeons.