Legend Of Zelda II: Adventure Of Link Just Got A Gorgeous Makeover

Published Sep 28, 2026, 10:00 PM EDT

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Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is arguably one of the most underrated entries in the Legend of Zelda franchise. While it's definitely recognized by hardcore Zelda fans, it's sort of been lost to time, as a lot of folks will play through the original Zelda on Virtual Console or the Nintendo Classics line, then either skip or bounce off of Zelda 2 because of how different it is.

With side-scrolling elements alongside the classic top-down map exploration, it immediately differentiated itself from its predecessor and introduced a few key elements of Zelda lore, like Dark Link. When it came out, it made a huge impact, though it remains divisive in some circles.

Now, thanks to a new YouTube update, we knowit's coming back with a brand-new coat of paint [via DSOGaming].

Thanks to a new reveal from modder Troygentic, we have a fresh look at the Zelda 2 Remake project, a fan remake of Zelda 2: The Adventure of Link. While the build is still in development, it's playable now and currently features an HD sprite overhaul.

The trailer does a great job of showing off how different the game looks compared to the original, and while the sprite work could use more fine-tuning, the backgrounds look very much in line with the original. Plus. the widescreen effect is incredibly useful, as it allows Link to see more screen real estate and plan for enemies attacking off-screen.

But the most gorgeous element of this game is easily the addition of co-op. Another Link copy can play locally or online, which is a great touch. As is the case with many fan remake projects, expected extras are included like save-states and controller support.

Over time, the Legend of Zelda series would add more co-op elements, starting in earnest with Four Swords, included in GBA copies of The Legend of Zelda: Link to the Past. It's an incredible game in its own right, given it was packed in as a bonus, but Four Swords eventually expanded into its own game line across multiple console and portable generations.

Eventually, several other games and spinoffs would introduce multiplayer, including the Hyrule Warriors series, which has multiple games under its belt. That it's optional, and the original experience is preserved, makes it even better when it happens.

If done poorly, however, it can backfire. That was unfortunately the case for Triforce Heroes, which forced players to gather up two friends while offering a wonky solo option.

Fans have been hungering for a return to co-op Zelda, and Nintendo still has plenty of chances to deliver, since we'll see decades more of The Legend of Zelda throughout our lifetime. Plus, many people are still waiting for a Zelda Dungeon Maker in the same vein as Super Mario Maker.