
Hey Zelda fans! Prepare for a serious blast from the past, or maybe discover an incredible piece of Hyrule history for the very first time. We’re talking about the official A Link to the Past comic, a legendary adaptation that ran chapter-by-chapter back in the golden age of gaming!
Straight from the Pages of Nintendo Power
Remember tearing open your copy of Nintendo Power magazine each month back in 1992? Tucked within those pages, alongside game tips and reviews, was this absolute treasure: a full-blown comic serialization of Link’s quest against Ganon. For twelve glorious issues (January through December ’92), readers followed the adventure panel by panel.
Crafted by a Manga Legend: Shotaro Ishinomori
This wasn’t just any quick knock-off. Nintendo tapped the incredible Shotaro Ishinomori – a true master of manga, famous for creating icons like Cyborg 009 and Kamen Rider – to bring Hyrule to life. And wow, did he deliver! Ishinomori’s art style is bursting with energy, completely distinct from the game’s visuals or later Zelda manga. It’s dynamic, expressive, and gives the whole adventure a unique, action-packed feel.
Familiar Story, Fresh Twists!
While the comic faithfully follows the core plot of A Link to the Past – gathering the Pendants, claiming the Master Sword, rescuing the Sages, and taking down Agahnim and Ganon – Ishinomori put his own spin on things:
- Link Speaks! Unlike his silent videogame counterpart, this Link is vocal, showing personality, determination, and even a bit of attitude.
- Unique Characters: Keep an eye out for characters not found in the game, like Roam, a fellow adventurer Link encounters.
- Expanded Moments: Certain scenes and character interactions get more breathing room, adding extra flavor to the familiar quest.
- Ishinomori’s Vision: It’s fascinating to see how a master storyteller adapted dungeon crawls and boss fights for the comic page.
Explore the Adventure Chapter by Chapter!
We’ve gathered scans of every single chapter right here for your reading pleasure. Experience the story as it originally unfolded, month by month. Whether you’re revisiting this classic or diving in for the first time, it’s an absolute treat for any fan of A Link to the Past.
(Important Note: While Viz Media later collected this series into a fantastic graphic novel – which is definitely worth owning! – experiencing it chapter-by-chapter gives you that original, serialized feel.)
Your Hyrule Adventure Awaits!
Ready to jump in? Select a chapter below – just the first thumbnail – and let Shotaro Ishinomori guide you through one of the greatest adventures in Hyrule’s history!