The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX vs The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
Side-by-side comparison of features, pricing, ratings, and alternatives.


Link's Awakening DX is a lovingly enhanced remake of the beloved Game Boy Color classic, bringing the whimsical island of Koholint to modern screens with full color graphics and additional content. The game retains the original's charming exploration, clever puzzles, and memorable soundtrack while adding new dungeons, items, and a secret dungeon for extra challenge. Designed for a single-player experience, this title blends action, adventure, and fantasy elements, making it an accessible yet deep journey for both newcomers and longtime fans of the series. Its timeless gameplay and thoughtful updates ensure it remains a standout entry in the Zelda franchise.
The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass continues Link’s journey on the high seas, blending classic Zelda exploration with innovative touch-screen controls. Players steer the Ocean King, uncover hidden islands, and unravel the mystery of the Phantom Hourglass to rescue Tetra and restore peace to the Great Sea. With its vibrant art style, real-time combat, and intricate puzzles, the game offers a rich single-player experience that challenges both reflexes and wits, making it a standout title for handheld adventure gamers.
- Stunning color overhaul of the original game
- Additional dungeons and items increase replay value
- Touchscreen-friendly UI on Switch
- Faithful to the classic Zelda formula
- Innovative touch-screen gameplay
- Engaging story and characters
- Varied puzzles and combat
- Rich, colorful art direction
- Limited to Nintendo Switch, no PC version
- Some players miss the original's simplicity
- No multiplayer or co‑op options
- Limited to handheld hardware
- No multiplayer campaign mode
- Touch controls can be imprecise at times
More alternatives & similar tools
Alternatives to The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX
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Control the seasons to save Holodrum in this classic adventure.

A timeless adventure where a young hero awakens on a mysterious island.

Classic 2D adventure that defines the action‑puzzle genre

A tiny hero embarks on a big adventure to save Hyrule’s smallest citizens.
Alternatives to The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass
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Link up with friends for a magical co‑op adventure in Hyrule.

Soar through the skies and master the sword in Zelda's origin story.

Embark on a railway adventure across a magical world of puzzles and action

Classic handheld adventure reborn with vibrant colors and new puzzles.
The Verdict
AI-generated from listing dataThe Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass is a safer default for adventure fans, but The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX is a better choice for classic Zelda fans. The main trade-off is between innovative touch-screen gameplay and a classic handheld adventure reborn with vibrant colors.
Key differences
- •Innovative touch-screen gameplay vs classic gameplay
- •New story and characters vs a reborn classic
- •Cooperative multiplayer minigames vs no multiplayer options
Gameplay & fun factor
Innovative touch-screen gameplay
Platform availability
Both limited to handheld or Switch
Price & value
Same MSRP of $59.99
Multiplayer / co-op
Cooperative multiplayer minigames available
Content & replayability
Hidden treasure chests and cooperative multiplayer minigames
Difficulty & accessibility
Not specified
Graphics & performance
Rich, colorful art direction
Choose The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX if…
Classic Zelda fans wanting a reborn classic
Choose The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass if…
Adventure fans seeking innovation
Common questions
Is The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass available on PC?
Not specified
Can I play The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening DX with a friend?
No multiplayer or co-op options
Do both games have the same age rating?
Yes, both have PEGI 7 and ESRB E ratings