The Nintendo Switch boasts a rich library of titles from The Legend of Zelda series. Gamers can explore the acclaimed open worlds of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, experience the innovative Echoes of Wisdom where Zelda takes center stage, and enjoy a selection of classic games through the Nintendo Switch Online service. Notably, the Switch also features a reimagining of a sometimes overlooked gem: The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening.
This Switch version of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening retains the spirit of the original 1993 Game Boy release while sporting a charming new “chibi” graphical style. It also introduces user-friendly enhancements such as streamlined menu navigation and customizable button assignments, ensuring a delightful experience for both veteran players and newcomers diving into the fourth installment of the Zelda saga.
Faithful to its source material, the Switch remake mirrors the original’s playtime. So, how long does it take to complete The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening on the Nintendo Switch? Furthermore, does it perform any differently on the Switch 2? Let’s delve into the details.
How does Link’s Awakening perform on Switch 2?
Unlike Tears of the Kingdom and various other titles designed specifically for the Switch, there isn’t a dedicated “Switch 2 upgrade” available for Link’s Awakening. However, the game did receive enhancements coinciding with the launch of Nintendo’s upgraded console. On June 3rd, 2025, a software update was released, optimizing the game’s visuals by increasing the resolution and incorporating improved HDR support.
The initial Switch release of Link’s Awakening occasionally experienced framerate dips. However, these issues have been significantly minimized, if not entirely eliminated, on the Switch 2. If you’ve been holding off on playing this remake until upgrading to a Switch 2, your patience will be rewarded with a smoother gaming experience. For a direct comparison, you can view this video: here.
How long is The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening?
An average playthrough of The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening will typically require approximately 12-15 hours to reach the end credits. This time is largely devoted to puzzle-solving, interacting with non-player characters (NPCs), and locating essential items required to progress through the adventure. This estimate doesn’t account for activities such as collecting all heart pieces and seashells, completing every trading sequence, or engaging in other optional side quests.
For completionists aiming to acquire every collectible and experience all additional content, expect a playtime closer to 20-25 hours in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening. This extensive playtime promises plenty of Hyrulian entertainment, but it demands patience (or the assistance of a handy guide) as numerous well-concealed secrets are scattered throughout this vibrant and colorful rendition of Hyrule.
If you’re unsure whether to play, keep in mind that it’s a remake of a Game Boy title, complete with both its strengths and weaknesses. It features memorable dungeons, a unique narrative, and charming, toy-like graphics that appeal to both new and returning players. However, its relatively linear progression and occasionally challenging “old-school” design may be somewhat divisive, particularly for those whose initial exposure to the franchise was through the open-world experiences of Breath of the Wild.
However, if The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening sounds appealing, it is currently available for purchase on both the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.