Editing Link

{{about|Link as usually seen in his adult form|the other versions of Link|[[List of fighters debuting in Super Smash Bros. Melee#Young Link|List of fighters debuting in Super Smash Bros. Melee § Young Link]] and [[List of fighters debuting in Super Smash Bros. Brawl#Toon Link|List of fighters debuting in Super Smash Bros. Brawl § Toon Link]]}}
{{character infobox
|image=[[File:Link (Tunic of the Wild) SSBU.png|200px]]<br>Artwork from ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''
|species=[[zeldawiki:Hylian|Hylian]]
|first_appearance=''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda|The Legend of Zelda]]'' ([[List of games by date#1986|1986]], [[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda (Series)|''The Legend of Zelda'' series]])<br>''[[The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!]]'' (1989, ''Super Mario'' franchise)
|latest_appearance=''[[Super Mario RPG (Nintendo Switch)|Super Mario RPG]]'' ([[Nintendo Switch]]) ([[List of games by date#2023|2023]])
|latest_portrayal=Kengo Takanashi (''The Legend of Zelda'' and ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, 2017-present)<br>[[wikipedia:Takashi Ōhara|Takashi Ōhara]] (''Super Mario''-related media excluding ''Super Smash Bros.'' series, 2014-present)
}}
{{quote2|Champion of Hyrule|[[List of stages debuting in Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U#Boxing Ring|Boxing Ring]] nickname|[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]}}
'''Link''' is a crossover character from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda (Series)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' series, where he is the main protagonist, usually having to protect [[zeldawiki:Hyrule|Hyrule]] from forces of evil, especially his arch-nemesis, [[zeldawiki:Ganon|Ganon]]. Link in the [[Super Mario (franchise)|''Super Mario'' franchise]] has often made cameo appearances and appears in some [[microgame]]s of the [[WarioWare (series)|''WarioWare'' series]].

==History in the ''Super Mario'' franchise==
===''Super Mario Bros. & Friends: When I Grow Up''===
[[File:TravelGuide.png|thumb|upright=0.85|Link as a traveling guide]]
Link's first appearance in the ''Super Mario'' franchise is the coloring game ''[[Super Mario Bros. & Friends: When I Grow Up]]''. Link first appears on the "Chef" page, where he is shown waiting for a pasta dish cooked by [[Mario]]. He later appears on the "Travel Guide" page, showing that he owns a traveling agency.

===''Donkey Kong Country'' series===
====''Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest''====
[[File:HeroesYoshi.png|thumb|left|Link comes in third place as one of Cranky's Video Game Heroes]]
In ''[[Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest]]'', Link is by default ranked third on a podium at [[Cranky's Video Game Heroes]], with [[Mario]] coming in first and [[Yoshi]] second. He can be removed from the podium by collecting nineteen [[DK Coin]]s, which replaces him with [[Diddy Kong]].

In the [[Donkey Kong Country 2 (Game Boy Advance)|Game Boy Advance version]], Link and Yoshi's positions on the leaderboard are swapped. Additionally, Link has obtained 50 DK Coins in total, meaning that Diddy can only shift Link down to third place, therefore removing Yoshi from the podium.

====''Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!''====
In ''[[Donkey Kong Country 3: Dixie Kong's Double Trouble!]]'', if the Kongs ask [[Bazaar]] who owns [[Kastle Kaos|the castle]] in the [[Northern Kremisphere]], Bazaar tells a short story of when Link visited his [[Bazaar's General Store|General Store]] the week before. Link also asked Bazaar for information regarding the castle even though he had insufficient [[bear coin]]s, but Bazaar thought him nice enough that he accepted a payment of 500 [[rupee]]s instead. After being told the information, Link left, grumbling about the seashells being the wrong shape (a nod to the [[zeldawiki:Secret Seashell|Secret Seashell]] sidequest in ''[[The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening]]''). This dialogue was removed in the Game Boy Advance version, and Bazaar instead discusses what he personally saw at Kastle Kaos.

===''Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars''===
[[File:Link SMRPG screenshot.png|thumb|Link sleeping at the [[Rose Town]] [[Inn]] in ''Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars''.]]
In ''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]'' and [[Super Mario RPG (Nintendo Switch)|its remake]], Link can be found resting at the [[Rose Town]] Inn. He does not awaken when spoken to (likely a nod to Link's constant portrayal as a silent protagonist and the recurring trait of him being asleep at the beginning of games), and a ''The Legend of Zelda'' melody for when a secret is uncovered plays instead.

In the remake, talking to Link adds "The Slumbering Hero" entry to the [[Scrapbook (Super Mario RPG for Nintendo Switch)|Scrapbook]]. Curiously, his model [https://youtube.com/shorts/Uq4FRZRKbdc depicts] his sleeves to be more red in color than the standard brown, as depicted in the non-canonical ''Zelda'' CD-i games.
{{br}}

===''Donkey Kong Land 2''===
Just like in ''Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest'', Link appears in Cranky's Video Game Heroes in the ending for ''[[Donkey Kong Land 2]]'', where he has the same number of DK Coins collected as before.

===''Mario Golf'' series===
In ''[[Mario Golf (Nintendo 64)|Mario Golf]]'' for the [[Nintendo 64]] and ''[[Mario Golf (Game Boy Color)|Mario Golf]]'' for the [[Game Boy Color]], Link's name appears on the scorechart.

===''Mario Artist: Paint Studio''===
His artwork from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time]]'' appears as a stamp in ''[[Mario Artist: Paint Studio]]''. This includes both his [[Young Link|young]] and adult form, as well as his adult form riding [[zeldawiki:Epona|Epona]].

===''Game & Watch Gallery 4''===
In ''[[Game & Watch Gallery 4]]'', Link appears in the ''Zelda'' Game & Watch game, which is playable in the [[Museum]] after unlocking enough stars.

===''WarioWare'' series===
Link appears in several ''[[WarioWare (series)|WarioWare]]'' games. He usually is a playable character in [[9-Volt]]'s and [[18-Volt]]'s [[microgame]]s.

[[File:Zelda Microgame.png|thumb|Link in The Legend of Zelda microgame]]
In ''[[WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$!]]'', Link appears in the [[The Legend of Zelda (WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$!)|Legend of Zelda]] microgame, based on the original ''The Legend of Zelda'' game, in which the player must guide Link into a cave.

In ''[[WarioWare: Twisted!]]'', Link appears in another microgame also titled [[The Legend of Zelda (WarioWare: Twisted!)|The Legend of Zelda]], once again based on the original game. The object is to rotate the handheld to deflect projectiles by red [[Octorok]]s with the shield.

In ''[[WarioWare: Smooth Moves]]'', three incarnations of Link appear. In the [[Ocarina of Time]] microgame, [[Young Link]] must draw his sword from its pedestal. This turns him into Adult Link on Level 1, old Link (with a gray beard) on Level 2, and a [[Cucco]] on Level 3. In addition, in the microgame [[The Wind Waker]], [[Toon Link]] must glide over the sea to a safe landing point with the [[zeldawiki:Deku Leaf|Deku Leaf]]. Finally, in the microgame [[Opening Night]], his 8-bit sprite from the original game can be seen playing the violin with the rest of the characters in the orchestra. 

In ''[[WarioWare: D.I.Y.]]'', Link is the main character in the [[Zelda (microgame)|Zelda]] microgame, appearing in his ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass|The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass]]'' incarnation. The object is to defeat [[zeldawiki:Chuchu|Chuchu]]s with the sword by tapping them.

In ''[[WarioWare: D.I.Y. Showcase]]'', Link is in the [[Zelda 2]] microgame, based on ''[[zeldawiki:Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|Zelda II: The Adventure of Link]]'', in which Link must deflect a [[zeldawiki:Goriya|Goriya]]'s boomerangs with the shield.

In ''[[WarioWare Gold]]'', some of the previous microgames in which Link appears return, specifically The Legend of Zelda from ''Mega Microgame$!'', and Ocarina of Time and The Wind Waker, both from ''Smooth Moves''. In addition to those, a new microgame called [[Phantom Hourglass]] appears, which is also based on ''The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass''. The object is to hit a switch with Link's boomerang by tracing a line for it to follow.

In ''[[WarioWare: Get It Together!]]'', Link is seen in a microgame titled [[The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild]], which is based on the [[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|''The Legend of Zelda'' game]] of the same name.

In ''[[WarioWare: Move It!]]'', Young Link appears in the microgame [[The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D]]. He is seen chasing a Cucco, which is controlled by the player and must run away from Link without getting caught by him.
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===''[[Super Mario (series)|Super Mario]]'' series===
====''Super Mario 3D World'' / ''Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury''====
In ''[[Super Mario 3D World]]'' and its [[Nintendo Switch]] port, ''[[Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury]]'', before the second [[Green Star]] in {{world|star2|1}}, [[Rainbow Run (level)|Rainbow Run]], there is a secret area where if the playable characters walk on all the panels, an 8-bit image of Link, which is an enlargement of one of his ''The Legend of Zelda'' sprites, is uncovered. After doing so, an arrangement of the main theme of ''The Legend of Zelda'' starts to play until the characters leave the area.

====''Super Mario Maker''====
Link appears as a [[Mystery Mushroom]] [[Costume Mario|costume]] in ''[[Super Mario Maker]]''. Link, [[Toon Link]], and Wolf Link's costumes can be unlocked by scanning their respective [[amiibo]], or randomly by completing the 100 Mario Challenge. The Link Costume is based on his sprites from ''The Legend of Zelda''. The Wolf Link Costume also includes [[Midna]] riding on top of Wolf Link. 

A special [[List of official Super Mario Maker courses|Event Course]] titled "[[Tri Force Heroes]]" allows the player to play as, and unlock, a special Costume Mario called Totem Link, based off of ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes|The Legend of Zelda: Tri Force Heroes]]''. As Totem Link, players play as all three Links from the game (red, blue, and green), stacked up on top of each other. Additionally, there is also an Event Course titled "[[Twilight Princess HD]]", which is based off ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD|The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess HD]]'', where players can unlock Wolf Link.

====''Super Mario Maker 2''====
{{multiframe
|[[File:SMM2 Green Link Sprite.png]] [[File:SMM2 Red Link Sprite.png]] [[File:SMM2 Blue Link Sprite.png]] [[File:SMM2 Pink Link Sprite.png]]
|align=left
}}
In version 2.0 of ''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]'', the player transforms into Link upon collecting the [[Master Sword]] power-up. His appearance is based on his sprite from the original ''The Legend of Zelda'', albeit with the shield redesigned to be based on the Hylian Shield. While in this form, Link can attack enemies with his sword, block projectiles with his shield, perform a [[zeldawiki:Dash Attack|Dash Attack]] to charge through enemies, perform a [[zeldawiki:Down Thrust|Down Thrust]] to attack enemies from above, aim and fire an arrow in three directions to obtain distant items, and use a bomb to destroy breakable blocks. Link can also drop bombs beneath him while riding a [[Koopa Clown Car]]. In multiplayer, if all four players obtain a Master Sword, they become the green, red, blue, and purple [[zeldawiki:Links|Link]]s from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords|The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords]]''.

While wearing a [[Goomba's Shoe]], Link cannot block [[Bullet Bill]]s. However, he can still use the shield whilst underwater.

===''Mario Kart 8'' / ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe''===
[[File:MK8 Link Joins The Race.jpg|thumb|upright=1.1|left|Link driving a [[Standard Kart]] on [[Mario Circuit (Mario Kart 8)|Mario Circuit]] in ''Mario Kart 8'']]
In ''[[Mario Kart 8]]'', Link appears as a downloadable playable character in the [[The Legend of Zelda x Mario Kart 8|''The Legend of Zelda'' × ''Mario Kart 8'']] downloadable content pack. This marks his first playable appearance of any kind in the ''Super Mario'' franchise. Link is one of the lighter heavyweight racers, befitting his much taller size, and he shares his stats with [[Rosalina]], [[Donkey Kong]], [[Waluigi]], and [[Roy Koopa|Roy]]. Although this Link is the Hero of the Skies from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword]]'', his proportions have been altered slightly to fit the ''Super Mario'' franchise aesthetic: he has a slightly larger head and eyes, and is left-handed as opposed to right-handed like in ''The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword''.

The [[Master Cycle]], a [[bike]] based on Link's [[Master Sword]] and his horse [[zeldawiki:Epona|Epona]], appears as one of four additional vehicle bodies, along with a ''The Legend of Zelda''-themed set of [[tire]]s, the [[Triforce Tires]], and a ''The Legend of Zelda''-themed [[glider]], the [[Hylian Kite]]. A ''The Legend of Zelda''-themed course called [[Hyrule Circuit]] also appears as part of the [[Triforce Cup]]. His kart symbol is the [[zeldawiki:Royal Crest|Royal Crest]]. During his tricks, he wields the Master Sword and shows off the Triforce.

[[File:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Art - Link.png|thumb|upright=1.1|Artwork of Link on the Master Cycle holding a [[boomerang]] from ''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'']]
Link reappears in the [[Nintendo Switch]] game ''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]'', available as part of the base game. He is available from the start, and is still among the lightest heavyweight characters, sharing his statistics with Rosalina, [[King Boo]], and [[Pauline]]. The game's July 2018 update also added the Hero of the Wild from ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', alongside the [[Master Cycle Zero]], [[Ancient Tires]], and [[Paraglider (The Legend of Zelda)|Paraglider]] parts. Upon being added, the Hero of the Wild became the default Link, while the Hero of the Skies was relegated to being an alternate character. Like the Hero of the Skies, the Hero of the Wild is left-handed despite being right-handed in his respective game; however, they also share the same voice actor.

Despite sharing some of the same part colors for items that change, the two Links have some noticeable differences. In regard to the Hero of the Wild, his kart symbol is the [[zeldawiki:Crest of the Sheikah|Crest of the Sheikah]] as it appears on the [[zeldawiki:Sheikah Slate|Sheikah Slate]] instead of the [[zeldawiki:Royal Crest|Royal Crest]], and he uses a [[zeldawiki:Guardian Sword++|Guardian Sword++]] instead of the Master Sword when performing tricks. The two variants have different horn sounds, which plays when pressing {{button|switch|l}} without any items; Link's horn is based on a sound from [[zeldawiki:Hyrule Warriors|Hyrule Warriors]] and Champion's Tunic Link's horn is based on the [[zeldawiki:Sheikah Slate|Sheikah Slate]]. Before the 2.3.0 update,<ref>balladofwindfishes (June 24, 2023). [https://www.reddit.com/r/mariokart/comments/14hdedg/comment/jpcn05t The experiment was just to pick BotW Link and see if CPU tunic Link was ever picked as a CPU in vs mode]. ''Reddit''. Retrieved July 13, 2023. ([http://archive.today/k4S6G Archived] July 13, 2023, 18:44:57 UTC via archive.today.)</ref> due to being two distinct incarnations of Link, the Hero of the Skies could also appear in a race if Hero of the Wild had already been selected and vice versa, while both could appear in a race if neither had been selected as well. Additionally, as CPUs, the vehicle combinations they use are almost completely different, with the only exception being the [[Standard Kart]], [[Standard (tire)|Standard]] tires, and [[Super Glider]] combination that is shared with most CPUs.

===''The Super Mario Bros. Movie''===
In ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Movie]]'', on the map in the [[Super Mario Bros. Plumbing]] commercial, a road in Queens named "Link Street" is shown, which is a reference to Link.

===Unused appearances===
====''Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga''====
[[File:Beta MLSS Link.png|frame]]
In ''[[Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga]]'', Link was [[List of Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga pre-release and unused content#Unused Cameos|meant to appear]] at [[Starbeans Cafe]] along with other non-''Mario'' character cameos. He would have given Mario and Luigi the Triforce. In the final game, all of the Nintendo cameos are replaced with [[Professor E. Gadd]], and the Triforce is replaced with the [[Great Force]].

====''Super Mario Odyssey''====
A costume for Mario based on Link seems to have been planned for ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]'', but has not been implemented.<ref>[https://tcrf.net/Super_Mario_Odyssey#Unused_Costumes Super Mario Odyssey § Unused Costumes]. ''The Cutting Room Floor''. Retrieved April 18, 2018.</ref>

==History in other media==
Link has had interactions and association with characters and other elements of the ''[[Super Mario (franchise)|Super Mario]]'' franchise in various other forms of media.

===''Club Nintendo''===
[[File:LinkCN.jpg|thumb|left|upright=0.55|Link as seen in the ''Club Nintendo'' comic "Mario in Mariozilla"]]
Link also makes several appearances in the ''Super Mario''-based comics within the German [[Club Nintendo (magazine)|''Club Nintendo'' magazine]], his appearance based upon that in the original ''The Legend of Zelda''. He debuts in "[[Super Mario: Die Bescherung]]", celebrating a Christmas party in the [[Mario Bros.' House]]. His role in this story is minor, though he has a brief speaking part at the end, mistrusting the realness of [[Santa Claus]].

In "[[Super Mario: Die Verwandlung]]", Dr. Light constantly mistakes Mario for Link. One of these confusions also implies that Link has undergone an aesthetic surgery by Light.

In "[[Warios Weihnachtsmärchen]]", Link appears in the role of the [[Ghosts of Christmas#Ghost of Present|Ghost of Present]]. Like in the story it is based on, Link takes [[Wario]] to see those he had upset earlier.

In "[[Mario in Mariozilla]]", he is seen in the [[Empire State Building]], studying a map together with [[Dr. Light]], who lives there. Link's actual role is unknown, though it appears that he works as Light's assistant. He also comments on a "magic cap" Light gave to Mario in order to make him incognito - actually a simple paper bag pulled over his head - in the way that it "becomes" him.

Link, alongside [[Kirby]], is Mario's ally in the comic "[[Super Mario in Die Nacht des Grauens]]". During the events of this story, he lives in a [[Brooklyn]] [[Nintendo Skyscraper|skyscraper]] and fights against [[Abigor]] and his demonic fellows who plan to take over the building. He does so by making use of a magic serum which turns him and his allies into aggressive ghostbusters. In this form, he has green skin, black armor, and a fire sword.

===DiC cartoons===
====''The Legend of Zelda''====
Link received his own television show with ''[[The Legend of Zelda (television series)|The Legend of Zelda]]''. It aired under the ''[[The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!]]'' syndication, with the animated ''Mario'' segments running Monday through Thursday, and being replaced by ''The Legend of Zelda'' segments on Fridays. ''The Legend of Zelda'' segments still received an accompanying live-action [[Mario]] and [[Luigi]] short. The series revolved around Link and [[Princess Zelda]] protecting the Triforce of Wisdom from [[Ganon]].

====''Captain N: The Game Master''====
[[File:ZeldaLinkN.png|thumb|Link, in between Zelda and Captain N in ''Captain N: The Game Master'']]
Link and Zelda appear in ''[[Captain N: The Game Master]]'', borrowing their appearance and personality from the aforementioned ''The Legend of Zelda'' cartoon. Jonathan Potts returned to voice Link in the series. Link was also a major character in the Valiant [[Nintendo Comics System]] line of ''Captain N: The Game Master''.

===''Super Smash Bros.'' series===
{{SSB fighter infobox
|color=green
|emblem=Zelda_Emblem.png
|image=LinkSSBU.png
|games=''[[Super Smash Bros.]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]''<br>''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''
|standard=Boomerang (64); Bow / Hero's Bow (''Melee'', ''Brawl'', ''for 3DS / Wii U''); Bow and Arrows (''Ultimate'')
|side=Boomerang (''Melee'', ''Ultimate''); Gale Boomerang (''Brawl'', ''for 3DS / Wii U'')
|up=Spin Attack
|down=Bomb (64, ''Melee'', ''Brawl'', ''for 3DS / Wii U''); Remote Bomb (''Ultimate'')
|final=Triforce Slash (''Brawl'', ''for 3DS / Wii U''); Ancient Bow and Arrow (''Ultimate'')
|entrance=Link floats down in a beam of light. (64)<br>Link whirls in via Gale Boomerang. (''Brawl'', ''for 3DS / Wii U'')<br>Link flies in with his [[Paraglider (The Legend of Zelda)|Paraglider]]. (''Ultimate'')
}}
Link appears in every ''[[Super Smash Bros. (series)|Super Smash Bros.]]'' game as a default playable character. Most of Link's standard attacks make use of the [[Master Sword]], while his specials are all attacks or items from ''The Legend of Zelda'' series.

====''Super Smash Bros.''====
[[File:Link SSB Artwork.png|thumb|left|Link's artwork from ''Super Smash Bros.'']]
{{main-wiki|SmashWiki|Link (SSB)}}
In ''[[Super Smash Bros.]]'', Link is one of the default playable characters. Specifically, he is the "[[zeldawiki:Hero of Time|Hero of Time]]" from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time]]''. Link is the first character fought in single player mode, on [[Hyrule Castle]].

Link's standard special move in this game is the [[smashwiki:Boomerang|Boomerang]], in which Link tosses a boomerang to damage opponents. His up special move is the [[smashwiki:Spin Attack|Spin Attack]], in which he spins around rapidly to deal damage; and his down special is [[smashwiki:Bomb (Link)|Bomb]], in which Link pulls out a bomb to throw. In addition, Link's grab move uses the [[zeldawiki:Hookshot|Hookshot]], an item also taking its appearance from ''Ocarina of Time'' that can also be used as a [[smashwiki:Wall grapple|wall grapple]]. Link's up and down aerials are the [[zeldawiki:Jump Thrust|Jump Thrust]] and [[zeldawiki:Down Thrust|Down Thrust]], both of which originated in ''[[zeldawiki:Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|Zelda II: The Adventure of Link]]''.

Two of Link's alternate colorations in this game are based upon the [[zeldawiki:Goron Tunic|Goron]] and [[zeldawiki:Zora Tunic|Zora Tunics]] from ''The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time'', while his final coloration is based upon his outfit after collecting the [[zeldawiki:Blue Ring|Blue Ring]] in the original ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda|The Legend of Zelda]]''.
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====''Super Smash Bros. Melee''====
[[File:MeleeLink.jpg|thumb|left|Link as he appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'']]
{{main-wiki|SmashWiki|Link (SSBM)}}
In ''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'', Link returns as a playable character, though some of his moves have been changed. His standard special attack has been replaced with the [[smashwiki:Hero's Bow|Bow]], which lets Link shoot an arrow that can be charged; the boomerang has instead been made his side special move. His other specials are kept the same, as has the Hookshot. This is also the first ''Super Smash Bros.'' game to feature Link's ability to use his [[zeldawiki:Hylian Shield|Hylian Shield]] to defend himself from projectile attacks while standing still.

In the game's Adventure Mode, Link is fought in the [[Underground Maze]] stage. He can be found at fake pedestals for the Master Sword (wearing a different tunic each time) as fighters search for the Triforce to end the level. [[Young Link]], Link's childhood self from ''The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time'', is also a separate playable character, much in the same manner that [[Mario]] and [[Baby Mario]] often appear in the same games.
{{SSB fighter infobox
|title=Dark Link
|color=green
|width=200
|emblem=Zelda_Emblem.png
|image=Dark Link SSBM.jpg
|games=''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]'' (non-playable) <br> ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]'' (non-playable, or playable using one of Link's alternate costumes)
|standard=Bow / Hero's Bow
|side=Boomerang (''Melee''); Gale Boomerang (''Brawl'')
|up=Spin Attack
|down=Bomb
|final=Triforce Slash
}}
Additionally, a doppelganger of Link, known as '''Dark Link''', appears in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'' as the opponent in [[smashwiki:Event 18: Link's Adventure|Event 18: Link's Adventure]]. In the battle, the player controls a red-clad Link, who has two [[extra life|extra lives]]. The fighter must defeat Dark Link, who also has two lives. The two swordsmen are fought at the Temple, with no time limit. This Event Match is a reference to the ending of  ''[[zeldawiki:Zelda II: The Adventure of Link|Zelda II: The Adventure of Link]]'', where a similar Dark Link served as the game's final boss.
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====''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''====
{{main-wiki|SmashWiki|Link (SSBB)}}
[[File:Link SSBB.png|frame|left]]
Link was the first character to be announced for ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''. Unlike in previous installments, this Link is the "Hero of Twilight", the descendant of the Hero of Time and the protagonist of ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess]]''. This Link's moveset also references ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'' in a number of ways. The bow (now called "Hero's Bow") and bombs have been aesthetically updated to match their ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'' designs, while the boomerang has been replaced with the [[smashwiki:Gale Boomerang|Gale Boomerang]], which generates a whirlwind that can drag in opponents as it returns. The Hookshot has also been replaced with the [[zeldawiki:Clawshot|Clawshot]] from ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'', which, when used offstage, can home in on edges and grab them unlike the Hookshot; however, it is now a tether recovery, as opposed to a wall grapple. Link also has a Final Smash called [[smashwiki:Triforce Slash|Triforce Slash]]. Dark Link also appears in the game, both as one of Link's alternative colors and as an opponent in an Event Match. The "Hero of Winds" from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker|The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker]]'' also appears in the game as a playable character under the name [[Toon Link]], complete with a moveset very similar to Link's.

Dark Link also reappears in this game, where he returns in two Event Matches. The first, [[smashwiki:Event 18: Dark Link Duel|Event 18: Dark Link Duel]], is similar to the match from Melee, but it is fought on the [[Bridge of Eldin]] instead, and is a stamina match rather than using lives. The second, [[smashwiki:Co-Op Event 7: Battle of the Dark Sides|Co-Op Event 7: Battle of the Dark Sides]], is the same as Dark Link Duel, but with the addition of [[Samus]] and [[False Character|her counterpart]] assisting Link and Dark Link, respectively.

Versions of Dark Link also appear as palette swaps for both Link and Toon Link. Link's is based on the [[zeldawiki:Dark Interlopers|"interlopers"]] from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess]]'', whereas Toon Link's is based off Shadow Link from ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures|The Legend of Zelda: Four Swords Adventures]]''.
=====Role in [[Super Smash Bros. Brawl#The Subspace Emissary|The Subspace Emissary]]=====
[[File:SubspaceIntro-Link.png|thumb|left|Link's snapshot in the Subspace Emissary]]
While walking through a forest, Links finds the Master Sword. Taking it in hand, he meets up with [[Yoshi]], forming an alliance. They later meet [[Mario]] and [[Pit (character)|Pit]], though under circumstances where Mario/Link defeats an evil copy of [[Princess Zelda|Zelda]]/[[Princess Peach|Peach]], leading to a fight. The two groups come to an understanding (and [[Kirby]] joins up as well) and unite as they see [[King Dedede]] driving off with [[Ness]], [[Luigi]], and the captured Princess.

They come to Dedede's base, only to find that [[Bowser]] has beaten them to it, taking the Princess off in his [[Koopa Clown Car]]. The team grows in size as they meet with [[Ike]], [[Marth]], [[Lucas]], the [[Pokémon Trainer]], and the [[Ice Climbers]]. The remaining heroes join them as they enter [[Subspace (Super Smash Bros. Brawl)|Subspace]]. Link is among the many that falls to [[Tabuu]]'s Off Waves, later revived by Kirby. He and Zelda come across [[Ganondorf]]'s trophy and revive him, forming a temporary alliance as everyone teams up to defeat Tabuu.
{{br|left}}

====''Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS'' / ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''====
{{main-wiki|SmashWiki|Link (SSB4)}}
Link reappears in ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS]]'' and ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]'' as a playable character along with Toon Link. Due to these games' more vibrant aesthetic, Link has a noticeably brighter color scheme than in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl'', though is still based on his appearance in ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess''. Link retains much of his moveset from the previous game, though some of his non-special moves have been altered, such as his down aerial gaining a meteor smash effect and gaining the [[zeldawiki:Jump Slash|Jump Slash]] as his new dash attack. Link's Hylian Shield can also now block projectiles while crouching and walking.

Link retains all of his alternate costumes from ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl'', while gaining two more: one based on the clothes worn by the "Hero of the Skies" during the beginning of ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword|The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword]]'', and another based on [[zeldawiki:Fierce Deity|Fierce Deity Link]], a transformation Link can obtain at the end of ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask|The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask]]''.<ref>Koczwara, Michael (September 6, 2014). [http://mariopartylegacy.com/2014/09/new-details-from-super-smash-bros-for-3ds-event-in-japan/ New Details from Super Smash Bros. for 3DS Event in Japan]. ''Mario Party Legacy''. Retrieved September 10, 2014.</ref>

====''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''====
{{main-wiki|SmashWiki|Link (SSBU)}}
[[File:03-Link.png|thumb|100px|Link's stock icon]]
Link returns as a playable character in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]'', alongside Young Link and Toon Link. This time, the Hero of Twilight has been succeeded by the "Hero of the Wild", the protagonist of ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild|The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild]]''. For the first time in the series, Link joins [[Mario]] himself as one of the co-mascots of ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'', as the two are frequently marketed and paired together to advertise and showcase the game.

Compared to his predecessors, Link takes on many different stances during battle. While this is purely aesthetic in some instances, he also leans further when performing attacks, giving them greater range, yet making his hurtbox more vulnerable to attacks. On a related note, the blade of his [[Master Sword]] is longer, increasing the range in his attacks, and his forward smash's first hit is capable of firing a [[zeldawiki:Sword Beam|Sword Beam]] while his damage is at 0%. Like his fellow ''The Legend of Zelda'' fighters, Link's victory theme has been changed to a new arrangement of their home series' main theme.

The [[zeldawiki:Hero of the Wild Set|Hero of the Wild]] set of clothes from ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', which resembles Link's classic design, also appears an alternate costume. Although Link uses a regular Boomerang like he does in ''Super Smash Bros.'' and ''Super Smash Bros. Melee'', his other special moves noticeably deviate from his predecessors': [[smashwiki:Bow and Arrows|his Bow]] is capable of firing two arrows at once, he uses the [[smashwiki:Remote Bomb|Remote Bomb]] [[zeldawiki:Rune|Rune]] instead of his Bombs as his down special, and [[smashwiki:Ancient Bow and Arrow|his Final Smash]] uses an [[zeldawiki:Ancient Bow|Ancient Bow]] to fire an [[zeldawiki:Ancient Arrow|Ancient Arrow]].

Some of Link's normal moves are also different compared to his predecessors. Due to neither the Hookshot nor the Clawshot appearing in ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', Link's grab consists of him quickly putting his Hylian Shield on his back in order to reach out with his left hand. Although this makes his grab much faster overall, it also results in his grab having much shorter range and lacking a tether recovery compared to his predecessors. As another reference to ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild'', the first hit of Link's forward smash is capable of firing a [[zeldawiki:Sword Beam|Sword Beam]] while his damage is at 0%, granting him yet another projectile (aforementioned above).

Compared to his predecessors, Link sports better mobility, higher jumps, faster short hop timing, less landing lag for his aerials, and a higher overall damage output. The reintroduction of the directional air dodge, the ability to use aerials on ladders, and the improved dash cancel mechanic also indirectly benefit Link to varying degrees. Link's dash attack, up aerial, and down aerials are now referred to their names in-game, while his forward smash is now called Sword Slice.
=====Classic Mode route=====
By completing Link's Classic Mode route, it is possible to unlock [[King K. Rool]], the [[Ice Climbers]], [[Simon Belmont|Simon]], [[Meta Knight]], [[Solid Snake|Snake]], [[Young Link]], [[Richter Belmont|Richter]], or [[Toon Link]]. Link's Classic Mode route pits him against characters that are in some way associated with darkness, with the fight against the dark-costumed Link being a reference to Dark Link.
{|class="wikitable"style="margin: auto;"
!colspan="5"|A Quest to Seal the Darkness
|-
!width=20px|Round
!width=150px|Opponent
!width=150px|Rule
!width=150px|Stage
!width=250px|Song
|-
!1
|[[Dark Pit]]
|
|[[Reset Bomb Forest]]
|Dark Pit's Theme
|-
!2
|[[Ridley]]
|
|[[Norfair]]
|Vs. Ridley
|-
!3
|[[Bayonetta]]
|
|[[Umbra Clock Tower]]
|One Of A Kind
|-
!4
|[[Dark Samus]]
|
|[[Frigate Orpheon]]
|Boss Battle 4 - Metroid: Samus Returns
|-
!5
|[[Ganondorf]]
|Team Battle<br>('''Ally:''' [[Princess Zelda|Zelda]])
|[[Gerudo Valley]]
|Gerudo Valley
|-
!6
|Link (dark costume)
|
|[[Temple (stage)|Temple]]
|Great Temple / Temple
|-
!Final
|[[Ganon]]
|
|
|Calamity Ganon Battle - Second Form
|}
{{br}}

===''Captain Rainbow''===
[[File:Mario Link portraits Captain Rainbow.png|thumb|Portraits of Mario and Link above Tracy's throne]]
Though Link himself does not make a direct appearance in ''[[Captain Rainbow]]'', there is a cameo of Link in the form of a portrait of him above [[zeldawiki:Crazy Tracy|Tracy]]'s throne, next to a portrait of [[Mario]]. The Link picture depicts his artwork from ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess''.
{{Br}}

==Portrayals==
Link has been portrayed by the following people:
*{{wp|Jonathan Potts}} voiced Link in DiC's ''[[The Legend of Zelda (television series)|The Legend of Zelda]]'' and ''[[Captain N: The Game Master]]'' cartoons.
*{{wp|Nobuyuki Hiyama}}, who later voiced [[Topper]] in ''[[Super Mario Odyssey]]'', voiced Link's "Hero of Time" incarnation. His voice clips from ''The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time'' were used in ''Super Smash Bros.'' and ''Super Smash Bros. Melee''.
*[[nwiki:Akira Sasanuma|Akira Sasanuma]] voiced Link's "Hero of Twilight" incarnation. His voice clips from ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'' were used in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl'', ''Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS'', and ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''.
*{{wp|Takashi Ōhara}} voiced Link's "Hero of the Sky" incarnation in ''Mario Kart 8'', reprising his role from ''The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword''. The Champion's Tunic Link in ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe'' reuses Ōhara's portrayal.
*Kengo Takanashi voiced Link's "Hero of the Wild" incarnation in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate'', reprising his role from ''The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild''.

==Profiles and statistics==
===''Mario Kart'' series===
====''Mario Kart 8''====
{{multiframe
|[[File:MK8 Link Emblem.png|100px]][[File:MK8 Link Car Horn Emblem.png|100px]] 
|Hero of the Skies Link's emblems from ''Mario Kart 8''
|size=200
|align=right
}}
*'''Weight Class''': Heavy
*'''Stats'''
**'''Speed'''
***'''Ground''': 4.25
***'''Water''': 4.75
***'''Air''': 4.25
***'''Anti-Gravity''': 4.5
**'''Acceleration''':  2.25
**'''Weight''':  4.25
**'''Handling'''
***'''Ground''': 2.75
***'''Water''': 2.75
***'''Air''': 2.5
***'''Anti-Gravity''': 3
**'''Traction''': 3.5
**'''Mini-Turbo''': 2
;Staff ghost time
{|border=1 style="text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse"width=70% align=center
|-style="background:gold"
!width=15% rowspan=2|Course
!width=10% rowspan=2|Staff Name
!width=10% rowspan=2|Country
!width=5% rowspan=2|Time
!width=30% colspan=3|Vehicle Combination
|-style="background:gold"
!width=10%|Body
!width=10%|Tires
!width=10%|Glider
|-
!Hyrule Circuit
|Nin★Claudi
|United Kingdom
|2:11.156
|Master Cycle
|Triforce Tires
|Hylian Kite
|}

====''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe''====
{{multiframe
|[[File:MK8D BotW Link Emblem.png|100px]]
|Hero of the Wild Link's emblem from ''Mario Kart 8 Deluxe''
|size=100
|align=right
}}
*'''Weight Class''': Heavy
*'''Vehicle Size''': Big
*'''Stats'''
**'''Speed'''
***'''Ground''':  4
***'''Water''': 4.25
***'''Air''': 4.5
***'''Anti-Gravity''': 3.75
**'''Acceleration''': 3.25
**'''Weight''': 3.75
**'''Handling'''
***'''Ground''': 3.25
***'''Water''': 2.75
***'''Air''': 3.25
***'''Anti-Gravity''': 3.25
**'''Traction''': 3.75
**'''Mini-Turbo''': 3.25
;150cc staff ghost time
{|border=1 style="text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse"width=70% align=center
|-style="background:gold"
!width=15% rowspan=2|Course
!width=10% rowspan=2|Staff Name
!width=10% rowspan=2|Country
!width=5% rowspan=2|Time
!width=30% colspan=3|Vehicle Combination
|-style="background:gold"
!width=10%|Body
!width=10%|Tires
!width=10%|Glider
|-
!Hyrule Circuit
|Nin★Mitsu
|Japan
|2:08.616
|Master Cycle
|Triforce Tires
|Hylian Kite
|}
;200cc staff ghost time
{|border=1 style="text-align:center;border-collapse:collapse"width=70% align=center
|-style="background:gold"
!width=15% rowspan=2|Course
!width=10% rowspan=2|Staff Name
!width=10% rowspan=2|Country
!width=5% rowspan=2|Time
!width=30% colspan=3|Vehicle Combination
|-style="background:gold"
!width=10%|Body
!width=10%|Tires
!width=10%|Glider
|-
!Hyrule Circuit
|Nin★Mark
|Netherlands
|1:40.394
|Master Cycle
|Triforce Tires
|Hylian Kite
|}

===''Super Smash Bros.'' series===
====''[[Super Smash Bros.]]''====
[[File:SSB64 Link.gif|thumb|Link in ''Super Smash Bros.'']]
*'''Bio''': ''Link is the valiant boy hero of "The Legend of Zelda" series in which he fights against the evil Ganon to recover the Triforce. Though his tools may change with each adventure, his strength and righteousness remain constant. With his trusty sword and a variety of weapons, he takes adventure head on!''

====''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''====
=====Bio=====
''A sword-wielding hero who also boasts long-range attacks.''

=====Trophies=====
{|class=sortable align=center width=100% cellspacing=0 border=1 cellpadding=3 style="border-collapse:collapse; font-family:Arial;"
|-
!width="1%"|#
!width="13%"|Name
!width="15%"|Image
!width="21%"|Game / Move
!width="50%"|Description
|-
|align=center|7
|align=center|Link<br>(Classic)
|[[File:trophy7.png|100px|center]]
|align=center|The Legend of Zelda<br>07/87
|Even in his youth, Link was already becoming the warrior who would carry the destiny of Hyrule (and many other lands) on his shoulders. His epic struggles against the forces of darkness are written in legend, and he is bound to the Princess Zelda and the archfiend Ganondorf by the awesome power of the Triforce.
|-
|align=center|8
|align=center|Link [Smash]<br>(Adventure)
|[[File:trophy8.png|center|100px]]
|align=center|{{button|gcn|B}}: Bow<br>Smash {{button|gcn|B}}: Boomerang
|Burdened with a shield, a heavy sword, and plenty of equipment, Link is not a very mobile character. Nevertheless, he's skilled with the blade, and his varied supply of missile weapons makes him a powerful fighter. To master Link, you must control the pace by balancing your long-range attacks with head-to-head swordplay.
|-
|align=center|9
|align=center|Link [Smash]<br>(All-Star)
|[[File:trophy9.png|center|100px]]
|align=center|Up & {{button|gcn|B}}: Spin Attack<br>Down & {{button|gcn|B}}: Bomb
|Link's Bow, Boomerang, and Bombs all take time to wield, so you may want to try drawing them in mid-air to prevent your foes from attacking you while you're vulnerable. The Spin Attack can score consecutive mid-air hits, and the final slash is very powerful. Link's Bombs are his trump card, but he can't pull one out if he's carrying another item.
|}

====''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''====
=====Bios=====
*'''Instruction booklet''': ''A warrior from distant Hyrule. His sword and projectiles make him a versatile fighter.''
*'''Website''': ''The hero of The Legend of Zelda series.''<br>
:''The design of this particular Link comes from The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess.''<br>

:''Link wields the Master Sword and a diverse arsenal of equipment.'''<br>
:''Use all of his weapons to adapt to the ebb and flow of battle.''<br>

=====Trophies=====
{|class=sortable align=center width=100% cellspacing=0 border=1 cellpadding=3 style="border-collapse:collapse; font-family:Arial;"
|-
!width="1%"|#
!width="13%"|Name
!width="15%"|Image
!width="21%"|Appearance(s)
!width="50%"|Description
|-
|align=center|5
|align=center|Link
|[[File:BrawlTrophy005.png|100px|center]]
|align=center|'''NES''' The Legend of Zelda <br> '''WII''' The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess
|align=center|A young man who emerged to rescue Hyrule from peril. He's the bearer of the Triforce of Courage who fights to keep Ganondorf from conquering the world. His green outfit is a constant throughout the series. He's a skilled swordsman, horseman, and archer. He's also proficient with bombs and boomerangs.
|-
|align=center|339
|align=center|[[zeldawiki:Wolf Link|Wolf Link]]
|[[File:BrawlTrophy339.png|100px|center]]
|align=center|'''WII''' The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess 
|align=center|Link's alternate form in the Twilight Realm. In this form, he cannot use weapons such as swords or shields, but he can attack with a ferocious wolf bite. He also has a number of unique skills inherent to his beast form, such as a keen sense of smell, the ability to dig, and a loud wolf howl.
|}

=====Stickers=====
{|border=1 cellpadding=1 cellspacing=0 style="text-align:center"width=100%
|-
!width=120px|Image!!|Game!!|Effect
|-
|[[File:Epona Link Sticker.png|120px]]
|''Zelda: Ocarina of Time''
|[Arm, Leg] - Attack +9<br>'''Usable by:''' Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, Toon Link 
|-
|[[File:Link Legend of Zelda Sticker.png|120px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda''
|['''Specials:''' Indirect] - Attack +17
|-
|[[File:Link Link to the Past Sticker.png|120px]]
|''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past|Zelda: Link to the Past]]''
|[Electric] - Resistance +31<br>'''Usable by:''' Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, Toon Link
|-
|[[File:Link TP Sticker.png|120px]]
|''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess|Zelda: Twilight Princess]]''
|[Slash] - Resistance +27<br>'''Usable by:''' Link, Zelda, Ganondorf, Toon Link
|}

=====Snake's codec=====
*'''[[Solid Snake|Snake]]''': [[List of Smash Taunt characters#Otacon|Otacon]], who's the guy with the sword?
*'''Otacon''': That's Link. He's the hero of Hyrule. That blade in his hand is called the Master Sword, also known as the "Blade of Evil's Bane." He also has a whole arsenal of items at his disposal--bombs and arrows, a shield, a boomerang, and a Clawshot. He's a force to be reckoned with.
*'''Snake''': Gear is only useful when it's used at the right time and place. Just lugging a ton of it around doesn't do you any good.
*'''Otacon''': ...I, uh... I wouldn't be talking if I were you, Snake.
*'''Snake''': What's that supposed to mean?
*'''Otacon''': You tell me, Mr. Utility Belt.
*'''Snake''': ...

====''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS]]'' / ''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U|Wii U]]''====
=====Trophies=====
{|border=1 cellpadding=1 cellspacing=0 width=100%
|-
!width="10%"|Name
!Image
!width="20%"|Appears in<br>(Wii U version only)
!Description
|-
!rowspan=2|Link
|align=center|[[File:LinkTrophy3DS.png|100px]]<br>(3DS)
|rowspan=2|'''NES''' The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)<br>'''SNES''' The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (04/1992)
|rowspan=2|'''NA:''' ''Green clothes? Pointy hat? Yep, it's Link, all right! In this game, his sword and shield make for effective attacking and blocking, and his bow, bombs, and boomerang will spice up any battle. He's even brought his Clawshot for grabbing enemies and edges. Jeez, just how much stuff can Link carry?''<br>
'''EU:''' ''Green clothes? Pointy hat? Yep, it's Link, all right! In this game, his sword and shield make for effective attacking and blocking, and his bow, bombs, and boomerang will spice up any battle. He's even brought his Clawshot for grabbing enemies and edges. The hero of Hyrule is really kitted out for a brawl!''
|-
|align=center|[[File:SSB4TrophyLink.png|100px]]<br>(Wii U)
|-
!rowspan=2|Link (Alt.)
|align=center|[[File:LinkTrophyAllStar3DS.png|100px]]<br>(3DS)
|bgcolor=#FF4433 align=center|''N/A''
|bgcolor=#FF4433|<span style="color:white">'''NA:''' ''If Link was on a desert island and could only pick one item, it'd be his powerful sword. This weapon is key to his down-air attack, a move with great launching potential and the ability to strike twice. He can also strike twice his his side smash—the second blow deals more damage and launches harder.<br>
'''EU:''' ''Of all of his weapons, Link's sword may be the most lethal. His down air attack has incredible launching power. What's more, he'll bounce up afterwards, allowing for a follow-up strike. His side smash can also be followed up with a more powerful second blow that sends foes flying - just press the button again straight away.''</span>
|-
|align=center|[[File:Link(alt)TrophyWiiU.png|100px]]<br>(Wii U)
|align=center|'''NES''' The Legend of Zelda (08/1987)<br>'''SNES''' The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past (04/1992)
|bgcolor=lightblue|'''NA:''' ''If Link was on a desert island and could only take one item, it'd be the Master Sword. This weapon is a key to his down air attack, a move with great launching potential and the ability to strike twice. He can also strike twice with his side smash&ndash;the second blow deals more damage and launches farther.''<br>
'''EU:''' ''Of all of his weapons, Link's sword may be the most lethal. His down air attack has incredible launching power. What's more, he'll bounce up afterwards, allowing for a follow-up strike. His side smash can also be followed up with a more powerful second blow that sends foes flying - just press the button again straight away.''
|-
!bgcolor=#FF4433|<span style="color:white">Adult Link (Ocarina of Time)</span>
|bgcolor=#FF4433 align=center|[[File:LinkOOTTrophy3DS.png|100px]]
|bgcolor=#FF4433 align=center|''N/A''
|bgcolor=#FF4433|<span style="color:white">'''NA:''' ''The children from Kokiri Forest never seem to grow into adults. Just a young boy, Link is entrusted with a quest by the Great Deku Tree. He leaves the forest and eventually finds the Master Sword in the Temple of Time. When he awakes, he is seven years in the future and an adult!''<br>
'''EU:''' ''Link was once a carefree lad living with the Kokiri in Kokiri Forest, but one day, the Great Deku Tree entrusted him with an important task and he had to leave. His quest led him to find the Master Sword, and when he took it, seven years passed in the blink of an eye. Before he knew it, Link had grown into a young man!''</span>
|-
!bgcolor=lightblue|Wolf Link
|bgcolor=lightblue align=center|[[File:WolfLinkTrophyWiiU.png|100px]]
|bgcolor=lightblue align=center|'''Wii''' The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess (11/2006)
|bgcolor=lightblue|'''NA:''' ''Hey, who let a wolf in here? This is the spot for a trophy of Link! The wolf does look cool, though... Oh, oops! That wolf is Link, from Twilight Princess, after he steps into Twilight. It's actually a pretty handy transformation. Maybe the Master Sword can help him transform at will...''<br>
'''EU:''' ''Hold on a sec! Where's our dashing young swordsman? Oh... This IS him, just...in wolf form. When he steps into the eerie Twilight world, Link becomes this rough-looking beast! Luckily, he turns back into normal Link eventually, but with the Master Sword letting him transform at will, he might feel like going wolf again from time to time.''
|-
!bgcolor=lightblue|Triforce Slash (Link)
|bgcolor=lightblue align=center|[[File:TriforceSlashTrophyWiiU.png|100px]]
|bgcolor=lightblue|
|bgcolor=lightblue|'''NA:''' ''Link makes use of the Triforce of Courage to trap foes, and then he launches a 16-blow combo. The final, mighty blow has the power to launch opponents off the stage. When Link prepares the attack, the ray of light he emits must strike a rival, or the attack will fail. Shielding will do nothing to stop this powerful attack.
|}
<small>Red indicates the Trophy or description is exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS version.<br>
Blue indicates the Trophy or description is exclusive to the Wii U version.</small>

=====[[Palutena]]'s Guidance=====
*'''[[Pit (character)|Pit]]''': Of all the fighters, Link is the one I most want to take down!
*'''Palutena''': Oh? Why's that?
*'''Pit''': We were born around the same time, and we both use a bow. He's totally ripping off my style.
*'''Viridi''': Puh-lease! Comparing Link to you is like comparing a star to a campfire.
*'''Pit''': What?!
*'''Viridi''': Just look at those chiseled features! His cheekbones could seriously cut glass.
*'''Pit''': Uh, earth to Viridi!
*'''Viridi''': Oh, I'm only kidding. The goddess of nature would never be interested in some hairless monkey!
*'''Palutena''': Oh, humans aren't all that bad. I could introduce you to him, if you'd like.
*'''Viridi''': Hmph. If you insist.
*'''Palutena''': Back to the fight at hand. Pit, you can reflect Link's projectile attacks using your Guardian Orbitars.
*'''Viridi''': Just watch out for his dreamy Clawshot!

====amiibo====
*''Link is the main character in The Legend of Zelda games. A young boy living in Hyrule, Link is often given the task of rescuing Princess Zelda and Hyrule from the Gerudo thief Ganondorf. Humble to the end, Link is known not merely as a hero but as a symbol of courage, strength and wisdom as well.''

====''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''====
=====Snake's codec=====
(NOTE: Due to the changes to Link's grab, Otacon's mention of the Clawshot was removed.)
*'''Snake''': Otacon, who's the guy with the sword?
*'''Otacon''': That's Link. He's the hero of Hyrule. That blade in his hand is called the Master Sword, also known as the "Blade of Evil's Bane." He also has a whole arsenal of items at his disposal--bombs and arrows, a shield, a boomerang... He's a force to be reckoned with.
*'''Snake''': Gear is only useful when it's used at the right time and place. Just lugging a ton of it around doesn't do you any good.
*'''Otacon''': ...I, uh... I wouldn't be talking if I were you, Snake.
*'''Snake''': What's that supposed to mean?
*'''Otacon''': You tell me, Mr. Utility Belt.
*'''Snake''': ...

=====Palutena's Guidance=====
*'''Pit''': I can't put my finger on it, but Link seems...different somehow.
*'''Palutena''': Well, this Link is technically a different person from the Link you fought before. This incarnation is known as the Hero of the Wild. He was once Hyrule's Champion, but he fell into a 100-year slumber after using all his strength to fight the Calamity.
*'''Pit''': 100 years might not be a long time to a goddess like you, Lady Palutena, but that's more than enough time for an entire world to change.
*'''Palutena''': You're right, Pit. When Link woke from the slumber of restoration, not only was his world unrecognizable, he also lost his memory.
*'''Pit''': I can't even imagine what that would be like. Lady Palutena, isn't there something the gods can do to help him restore his memory?
*'''Palutena''': Meddling in the affairs of another world is never a good idea. Although I do like Link, and his swordsmanship is quite impressive. The Master Sword, also known as the sword that seals the darkness, reveals its true strength in the presence of the Calamity.
*'''Pit''': Cool! Does that mean it's OP against Ganondorf?
*'''Palutena''': No, Ganondorf is from a different game. You should really do more research before you jump into a fight. If you expect to win, you need to know your opponent's backstory and abilities. Link has a lot of different weapons at his disposal.

=====Super Smash Blog bio=====
"''Link has been redesigned to match his appearance in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. He can now pick up arrows he's fired, and his bombs have been upgraded to remote bombs, so you can set them off when the timing is just right!''"

=====[[Spirit (Super Smash Bros. Ultimate)|Spirits]]=====
{|class=sortable align=center width=100% cellspacing=0 border=1 cellpadding=3 style="text-align:center; border-collapse:collapse; font-family:Arial; font-size:85%;"
|-
!rowspan=2 width=3%|#
!rowspan=2 width=8%|Name
!rowspan=2 class=unsortable width=10%|Image
!rowspan=2 width=8%|Series / game
!rowspan=2 width=5%|Type
!rowspan=2 width=5%|Class
!rowspan=2 width=8%|Strength / effect(s)
!rowspan=2 width=13%|How to obtain
!colspan=4 width=40%|Spirit battle
|-
!width=7%|Opponent(s)
!class=unsortable width=19%|Battle conditions
!width=7%|Stage
!width=7%|Song
|-
|93
|[[Master Cycle]]
|[[File:SSBU Master Cycle Spirit.png|100px]]
|''Mario Kart'' Series
|Primary (2)
|Legend
|'''{{color|Grab|limegreen}}'''<br>Speed ↑
|Summoned with a Mach Rider, City Tripper, Excitebike, and {{color|attack|red}}-type core
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|172
|[[Link]]
|[[File:SSBU Link Spirit.png|x100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Fighter
|N/A
|N/A
|Classic Mode as Link
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|178
|Link (''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda|The Legend of Zelda]]'')
|[[File:SSBU Link (The Legend of Zelda) Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Primary (3)
|Legend
|'''Neutral'''<br>Sword Attack ↑
|World of Light (Mysterious Dimension); Spirit Board
|[[Young Link]]
|
*The enemy's melee weapons have increased power
*The enemy's FS Meter charges quickly
*The enemy has increased attack power
|[[Find Mii]]
|Overworld Theme - The Legend of Zelda
|-
|196
|[[zeldawiki:Epona|Epona]]
|[[File:SSBU Epona Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Support (1)
|Ace
|Undamaged Attack & Speed ↑
|Summoned with a Rapidash and Malon core
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|-
|217
|[[zeldawiki:Ricky|Ricky]]
|[[File:SSBU Ricky Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Support (1)
|Novice
|Fist Attack ↑
|World of Light (Light Realm); Spirit Board
|[[Little Mac]]
|
*The enemy loves to jump
*The enemy has increased jump power
|[[Bridge of Eldin]] (Battlefield)
|Tal Tal Heights
|-
|218
|[[zeldawiki:Dimitri|Dimitri (''The Legend of Zelda'')]]{{footnote|main|1}}
|[[File:SSBU Dimitri Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Support (1)
|Novice
|Swimmer
|Spirit Board
|[[Yoshi]], [[Young Link]]
|
*The enemy favors neutral specials
|[[Great Bay]]
|Tal Tal Heights
|-
|219
|[[zeldawiki:Moosh|Moosh]]
|[[File:SSBU Moosh Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Support (2)
|Novice
|Instadrop
|World of Light (Forest Hill); Spirit Board
|[[Bowser]]
|
*The enemy favors down specials
|[[Garden of Hope]] (Battlefield)
|Tal Tal Heights
|-
|223
|[[zeldawiki:Wolf Link|Wolf Link]] & [[Assist Trophy#Midna|Midna]]
|[[File:SSBU Wolf Link & Midna Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Primary (3)
|Legend
|'''{{color|Grab|limegreen}}'''<br>Dash Attack ↑
|Enhanced from Midna
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|231
|[[zeldawiki:Loftwing|Loftwing]]
|[[File:SSBU Loftwing Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Support (1)
|Novice
|Landing Lag ↓
|Spirit Board
|Giant [[Falco Lombardi|Falco]]
|'''Hazard:''' Heavy Wind
*Dangerously high winds are in effect
*The enemy is giant
|[[Skyloft]] (Battlefield)
|Ballad of the Goddess ''(original)''
|-
|233
|[[zeldawiki:Wall Merging|Wall-Merged]] Link
|[[File:SSBU Wall-Merged Link Spirit.png|x100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Primary (3)
|Advanced
|'''Neutral'''<br>Can be enhanced to Link (''A Link Between Worlds'') at Lv. 99
|World of Light (Sacred Land); Spirit Board
|[[Mr. Game & Watch]], [[Young Link]]
|
*Reinforcements will appear after an enemy is KO'd
|[[Flat Zone X]]
|Lorule Main Theme
|-
|234
|Link (''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: A Link Between Worlds|A Link Between Worlds]]'')
|[[File:SSBU Link (A Link Between Worlds) Spirit.png|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Primary (3)
|Ace
|'''Neutral'''<br>Weapon Attack ↑
|Enhanced from Wall-Merged Link
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|N/A
|-
|1322
|Link (''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Link's Awakening (Nintendo Switch)|Link's Awakening]]''){{footnote|main|2}}
|[[File:SSBU Link (Link's Awakening) Spirit.jpg|100px]]
|''The Legend of Zelda'' Series
|Primary (3)
|Ace
|'''Neutral'''<br>Water Weakness
|Spirit Board (ver. 4.0.0 or later)
|[[Toon Link]]
|'''Rule:''' [[Assist Trophy]] Enemies ''([[Chain Chomp]])''
*Hostile assist trophies will appear
|[[Tortimer Island]]
|Tal Tal Heights
|}
{{footnote|note|1|Originally named "Dimitri" prior to Challenger Pack 5}}
{{footnote|note|2|Originally exclusive to the "Return to Koholint" event that ran from June 14, 2019 to June 18, 2019}}

===''Super Mario Maker 2''===
*'''[[Play Nintendo]]:''' "''Transforming into Link using the Master Sword opens up a whole new world of design possibilities for creators. Using his arrows, Link can shoot far off switches that Mario would normally not be able to hit. His new down thrust move with the sword will defeat usually protected enemies like spike-covered Spinies. And with bombs, some walls that would normally be impassable by Mario and friends can easily be blown up.''"<ref>[https://play.nintendo.com/news-tips/news/super-mario-maker-2-free-dlc-updates-ver-2-0/ Super Mario Maker 2 Free DLC Updates Ver. 2.0.0]. ''Play Nintendo''. Retrieved July 14, 2020.</ref>

==Audio samples==
{{media table
|file1=Link voice sample SSBM.oga
|title1=''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''
|description1=Link performing his Spin Attack. ([[Nobuyuki Hiyama]], 2001; reused from ''The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time'' and ''Super Smash Bros.'')
|file2=Link voice sample SSBB.oga
|title2=''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''
|description2=Link performing his Spin Attack. (Akira Sasanuma, 2008; reused from ''The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess'')
|file3=Link voice sample MK8.oga
|title3=''[[Mario Kart 8]]''
|description3=When selected. (Takashi Ōhara, 2014)
|file4=Link voice sample SSBU.oga
|title4=''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''
|description4=Link performing his Spin Attack. (Kengo Takanashi, 2018)
}}

==List of ''Super Mario'' appearances==
{|class="wikitable sortable" width=100%
|-
!width=40%|Title
!width=20%|Description
!width=20%|Year
!width=20%|System/format
|-
|''[[Super Mario Bros. & Friends: When I Grow Up]]''
|Cameo on Chef/Waitress and Travel Guide pages
|1992
|[[MS-DOS]]
|-
|''[[Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest]]''
|One of [[Cranky Kong]]'s Video Game Heroes
|1995
|[[Super Nintendo Entertainment System]]
|-
|''[[Donkey Kong Land 2]]''
|One of the Video Game Heroes
|1996
|[[Game Boy]]
|-
|''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''
|Cameo in [[Rose Town]] Inn
|1996
|Super Nintendo Entertainment System
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros.]]''
|Playable character 
|1999
|[[Nintendo 64]]
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros. Melee]]''
|Playable character
|2001
|[[Nintendo GameCube]]
|-
|''[[Game & Watch Gallery 4]]'' 
|Playable in port of ''Zelda''
|2002
|[[Game Boy Advance]]
|-
|''[[WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Microgame$!]]''
|Cameo in microgame
|2003
|Game Boy Advance
|-
|''[[WarioWare, Inc.: Mega Party Game$!]]''
|Cameo in microgame
|2003
|Nintendo GameCube
|-
|''[[Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest|Donkey Kong Country 2]]'' (GBA remake)
|One of Cranky Kong's Video Game Heroes
|2004
|Game Boy Advance
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''
|Playable character
|2008
|[[Wii]]
|-
|''[[Super Mario 3D World]]''
|Cameo in [[Rainbow Run (level)|Rainbow Run]]
|2013
|[[Wii U]]
|-
|''[[Mario Kart 8]]''
|Downloadable playable character
|2014
|Wii U
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS]]''
|Playable character
|2014
|[[Nintendo 3DS]]
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros. for Wii U]]''
|Playable character
|2014
|Wii U
|-
|''[[Super Mario Maker]]''
|[[amiibo]] Costume
|2015
|Wii U
|-
|''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]''
|Playable character
|2017
|[[Nintendo Switch]]
|-
|''[[WarioWare Gold]]''
|Cameo in microgame
|2018
|Nintendo 3DS
|-
|''[[Super Smash Bros. Ultimate]]''
|Playable character
|2018
|Nintendo Switch
|-
|''[[Super Mario Maker 2]]'' (version 2.0)
|Playable character via [[Master Sword]] power-up
|2019
|Nintendo Switch
|-
|''[[Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury]]''
|Cameo in Rainbow Run
|2021
|Nintendo Switch
|-
|''[[WarioWare: Get It Together!]]''
|Cameo in microgame
|2021
|Nintendo Switch
|-
|''[[Super Mario RPG (Nintendo Switch)|Super Mario RPG]]''
|Cameo in Rose Town Inn
|2023
|Nintendo Switch
|}

==Gallery==
{{main-gallery}}
<gallery>
Link DKC2 sprite.png|''[[Donkey Kong Country 2: Diddy's Kong Quest]]''
SMRPG Link.png|''[[Super Mario RPG: Legend of the Seven Stars]]''
SSBU Master Cycle Spirit.png|''[[Mario Kart 8]]''
SMM Link.png|''[[Super Mario Maker]]''
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Art - Link.png|''[[Mario Kart 8 Deluxe]]''
SSBM Link's Boomerang Move.png|Link using the [[smashwiki:Boomerang|Boomerang]] in ''Super Smash Bros. Melee''
Link Hero's Bow Wii U.jpg|Link using the [[smashwiki:Hero's Bow|Hero's Bow]] in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''
Hero's Bow Brawl.png|Link using the Hero's Bow in ''[[Super Smash Bros. Brawl]]''
Link Gale Boomerang Wii U.jpg|The [[smashwiki:Gale Boomerang|Gale Boomerang]] in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''
Gale Boomerang.jpg|The Gale Boomerang in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''
Link Spin Attack Wii U.jpg|Link using the [[smashwiki:Spin Attack|Spin Attack]] in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''
Spin Attack Brawl.png|Link using the Spin Attack in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''
Link Bomb Wii U.jpg|Link with a [[smashwiki:Bomb (Link)|Bomb]] in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''
BrawlBomb.jpg|Link using the Bomb in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''
Link Triforce Slash Wii U.jpg|The [[smashwiki:Triforce Slash|Triforce Slash]] in ''Super Smash Bros. for Wii U''
TriforceSlash2.jpg|Link's Triforce Slash in ''Super Smash Bros. Brawl''
SSBU Ancient Bow and Arrow.jpg|The [[smashwiki:Ancient Bow and Arrow|Ancient Bow and Arrow]] in ''Super Smash Bros. Ultimate''
</gallery>

==Names in other languages==
===Link===
{{foreign names
|Jap=リンク
|JapR=Rinku
|JapM=Transliteration of international name
|Spa=Link
|SpaM=-
|Fre=Link
|FreM=-
|Dut=Link
|DutM=-
|Ger=Link
|GerM=-
|Ita=Link
|ItaM=-
|Por=Link
|PorM=-
|Rus=Линк
|RusR=Link
|RusM=Transliteration of international name
|Kor=링크
|KorR=Ringkeu
|KorM=Transliteration of international name
|Chi=林克
|ChiR=Línkè
|ChiM=Transliteration of international name
|Gre=Λίνκ
|GreR=Link
|GreM=Transliteration of international name
}}

===Dark Link===
{{foreign names
|Jap=ダークリンク
|JapR=Dāku Rinku
|JapM=Dark Link
|Spa=Link Oscuro
|SpaM=Dark Link
|Fre=Link Noir	
|FreM=Black Link
|Dut=
|DutM=
|Ger=Schatten-Link	
|GerM=Shadow Link
|Ita=Link Ombra	
|ItaM=Shadow Link
|Por=
|PorM=
|Rus=Дарк Линк	
|RusR=Dark Link
|RusM=Dark Link
|Kor=	
|KorR=
|KorM=
|Chi=暗黑林克
|ChiR=Ànhēi Línkè
|ChiM=Dark Link
}}
==Trivia==

*According to an interview in 2009, [[Charles Martinet]], Mario's previous voice actor, told [[Shigeru Miyamoto]] that he wanted to voice Link in ''[[zeldawiki:The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time|The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time]]'', though Miyamoto told him that he would remain without a speaking voice. In the final game, his grunts and yells were portrayed by [[Nobuyuki Hiyama]].<ref>http://gonintendo.com/?p=104332</ref>

==External links==
{{NIWA|ZeldaWiki=1|SmashWiki=1}}
*[https://zeldadungeon.net/wiki/Link Link on Zelda Dungeon Wiki]
*[https://triforcewiki.com/wiki/Link Link on Triforce Wiki]

==References==
<references/>
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}}
[[Category:Characters from other Nintendo games]]
[[Category:Playable characters]]
[[Category:Magicians]]
[[Category:Humans]]
[[Category:Mario forms]]
[[Category:Downloadable content]]
[[Category:Club Nintendo]]
[[Category:The Legend of Zelda series]]
[[Category:Mario Kart 8 characters]]
[[Category:Nintendo Land costumes]]
[[Category:Super Mario Maker costumes]]
[[Category:Super Mario Maker 2 characters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. amiibo line]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. fighters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Brawl fighters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Brawl stickers]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Brawl trophies]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS / Wii U fighters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS trophies]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. for Wii U trophies]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Melee fighters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Melee trophies]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate fighters]]
[[Category:Super Smash Bros. Ultimate spirits]]
[[de:Link]]
[[it:Link]]