A Link to the Past

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Editions & platforms

Before you start

SNES and GBA differ in extras and text. The GBA Four Swords component is a separate adventure, not an extra SNES dungeon.

The magic mirror leaves a return point, so plan each transition between Light and Dark Worlds. Their maps are related but not interchangeable.

Main route & dungeon order

An ordered progression route. Use the stated coverage to distinguish this overview from a room-by-room solution.

1. 01

   Stage 1

   Rescue Zelda from Hyrule Castle and reach the sanctuary. Obtain the bow in the Eastern Palace, then the Book of Mudora for the Desert Palace. The Tower of Hera on Death Mountain holds the third pendant.

2. 02

   Stage 2

   With three pendants, draw the Master Sword in the woods and confront Agahnim in the castle tower. In the Dark World, the Moon Pearl preserves your form; the mirror and portals connect both worlds.

3. 03

   Stage 3

   A practical crystal route visits Palace of Darkness, Swamp Palace, Skull Woods, Thieves’ Town, Ice Palace, Misery Mire and Turtle Rock. Hammer, hookshot and Titan’s Mitt open more areas. Some later dungeons allow alternate orders.

4. 04

   Stage 4

   Seven crystals open Ganon’s Tower. Upgrade your sword and arrows first. After the second Agahnim battle, fight Ganon in the pyramid: keep the torches lit and use silver arrows during his vulnerable phase.

Collection goals & secrets

Heart pieces, bottles, fairy upgrades, medallions, sword tiers and optional equipment such as the magic cape and Cane of Byrna.