Secrets and Easter Eggs
Zelda II: The Adventure of Link is notorious for its difficulty, but it also hides a surprising number of secrets and fun Easter eggs that can make your journey a little easier or simply provide a chuckle. Uncovering these hidden gems is part of the adventure!
Hidden Item Locations
Many valuable items are tucked away in obscure corners of Hyrule. Keep your eyes peeled and your sword ready!
- Heart Container in the Hidden Town of Mido: After obtaining the Hammer from the Death Mountain dungeon, head to the town of Mido. Use the Hammer on the large boulder located in the northwest corner of the town. This reveals a hidden cave containing a valuable Heart Container, permanently increasing Link's maximum HP.
- Magic Container in the Maze Island Cave: Once you have the Raft, sail to Maze Island, located in the eastern sea. Navigate the maze-like forest until you find a hidden cave entrance. Inside, you'll discover a Magic Container, which boosts your maximum magic points. This is crucial for casting more spells!
- Red Magic Jar in Tantari Desert: In the Tantari Desert, there's a specific screen with a single, isolated rock formation. If you stand on this rock and cast the "Jump" spell, you can reach a hidden ledge above. On this ledge, you'll find a Red Magic Jar, which fully restores your magic. This is a great emergency refill for tough encounters.
Dialogue and Character Quirks
The residents of Hyrule often have interesting things to say, some of which are more than just flavor text.
- "I AM ERROR." Man: This is perhaps the most famous Easter egg in the game. In the town of Ruto, enter the second house from the left. Speak to the man inside, and he will famously declare, "I AM ERROR." This has become a legendary line in gaming history. While not directly useful, it's a fun nod to the game's quirky localization.
- Hidden Wise Man in Saria: After you've obtained the Cross, return to the town of Saria. Go to the house in the upper-left corner. The wise man inside, who previously offered generic advice, will now teach you the invaluable "Reflect" spell. This spell is essential for defeating certain magic-wielding enemies and bosses.
Gameplay Exploits and Tricks
Some "secrets" are more akin to clever exploits that can give you an edge.
- Infinite 1-Up Trick (Palace of Death Mountain): This trick requires careful timing. In the Palace of Death Mountain, there's a room with a Red Darknut and a Bubble. If you defeat the Red Darknut, then allow the Bubble to hit you (taking damage), and then quickly exit and re-enter the room, the Red Darknut will respawn. Defeating it again will grant you another 1-Up. Repeat this process for as many extra lives as you need before facing the dungeon boss.
- Easy Experience Grinding (Death Mountain): Early in the game, once you can reliably defeat them, the Iron Knuckles on Death Mountain yield a significant amount of experience points. Find a screen with one or two Iron Knuckles, defeat them, then exit and re-enter the screen to respawn them. This is an excellent way to level up your Attack, Magic, and Life early on.