Probably the best 2D Zelda game so far. Minish cap hold charm for how it gets its points right. Its a smaller world for a small device, akin to link's awakening in design. Plus it has everything you'd expect from a game titled Zelda.

My biggest gripes are reoccurring issues, that later dungeons get really convoluted that it's just a handicap to not have a guide for the tough parts on. 2nd is that the game dangles a lot of items that you can't reach yet, so you need to make notes for what you missed since the game doesn't offer markers if you entered the area once and going back and forth to check if you've progressed enough to get it plus the tedium of some areas really makes it a chore.

However, it's the most well-rounded 2D entry and if there's one 2D Zelda you'd play, make it this one.

The game that kickstarted a very distinctive IP at least in my opinion. However, it is a VERY rough game even with patches. I spent a good 20 mins of my time fidgeting with an elevator because some NPCs kept blocking it. I used fixt only but I'd recommend ET TU if you're planning to play.

However I'd understand if someone were to skip it for two, since I've heard that 2 is an overall improvement. F1 isn't plot-heavy so you can recap it if that's what matters for you. It is a decent game but the jank is unwieldy and frustrating. It is a somewhat inaccessible game but these guys went so hard on the art and concept that I can't be hard on them.