Surprisingly ambitious for a Game Boy game, Link's Awakening takes several risks by breaking away from series hallmarks like Hyrule, Zelda, and Ganon. Even if its overall structure resembles A Link to the Past—Link's Awakening even started as a remake of that title—deviations like assigning items to the primary buttons, platforming, the trading quest, collecting seashells, and a fishing mini-game help it feel like a unique experience. It might feel a bit cramped given the Game Boy's limited control scheme and 8-bit graphics, but it's arguably even more impressive for overcoming those hurdles to deliver a wonderful and memorable Zelda adventure.

Bonus points for the dreamy plot, remarkable art direction, and earworm soundtrack.