I am so fucking close to beating this asshole of a game, even with save states. And you know what, it's pretty damn good. I don't even have any nostalgia for this and I still like it. I've never liked Zelda 1 for one straightforward reason; it controls like dog shit. Yes, it is influential and inspired perhaps the most critically acclaimed series in the industry. But personally, if it does not feel satisfying to perform basic functions (moving, turning, attacking, the god-awful shield) then I am going to struggle to care. This game, however, for all its many, many faults, controls superbly! The combat and progression system are so compelling for an NES title that I feel a real drive to get through its hilariously impossible moments. I agree with some of the cryptic parts being bullshit, but I actually managed to find most of them without a guide. I feel if you go into it knowing a few tips (do a victory lap of temples for the last level-ups, write down cryptic hints and be overly thorough, search every fucking tile) rather than outright using a guide, you CAN really enjoy this.
Currently still stuck on the approach to the final temple. Will update this when I have finally completed this wacky piece of shit that I love for some reason.