Dark Link (The Adventure of Link)

This article is about the boss from The Adventure of Link. For the recurring antagonist, see Dark Link.

Dark Link
Artwork of Dark Link
First appearance	The Adventure of Link (1988)
Location(s)	Great Palace
Weapon(s)	Sword
Effective weapon(s)	Sword

Dark Link (ダークリンク, Dāku Rinku^?) is the final boss in Zelda II: The Adventure of Link. Link is forced to fight him after he defeats the Thunderbird in order to win the Triforce of Courage. Dark Link copies all of Link's abilities, as he is Link's own shadow. He is defeated by Link, who, after the ordeal, receives the Triforce from the Triforce Keeper and revives the original Princess Zelda. Dark Link is never described as one of Ganon's servants; it is more likely that he was a final test left for Link made by the Great King of Hyrule who hid the Triforce of Courage, possibly evidenced by the Triforce Keeper's actions.

Interestingly, this is the only time in the Legend of Zelda series that Dark Link appears as the final boss.

Battle

Use the Shield Spell as soon as Link enters the room. Dark Link will use his shield to defend against Link's attacks; however, unlike Iron Knuckles and Fokkas, he can not attack at one height and defend at a different height. Dark Link is very quick at attacking and defending, so precise timing is needed to damage him. Regardless of Link's sword level, it will always take eight hits to defeat Dark Link.

An effective alternative strategy for fighting Dark Link is to crouch in the left corner and repeatedly stab at him when he approaches.

Video