Predictably, Nintendo takes down unofficial Zelda: Link’s Awakening PC port from the internet

The individual behind an unofficial PC port of the Game Boy Color classic Link’s Awakening, which gained widespread attention on social media, has taken it down from itch.io following a takedown notice from Nintendo.

The creator, ‘linksawakeningdxhd,’ had uploaded a PC port of 1998’s Link’s Awakening DX, featuring HD visuals, 120fps scrolling, and widescreen support. However, the game’s files were suspended after Nintendo issued a copyright claim.

The takedown notice, published on itch.io, is reproduced below:

To Whom It May Concern:


I am an authorized representative of Nintendo of America Inc., owner of the following copyrighted material:


PA0002212311 (The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening) and PA0000772666 (Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening (Game Boy version).


It has come to our attention that the following game, https://linksawakeningdxhd.itch.io/links-awakening-dx-hd, offered on Itch.io infringes and makes unauthorized use of Nintendo’s copyrights in The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening video game.


For additional information, visit Nintendo’s website at the following URLs:
https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/game-boy-nintendo-switch-online-switc…
https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/the-legend-of-zelda-links-awakening-s…


Please act expeditiously to remove the download and information page for the infringing game.


I have a good faith belief that the material is not authorized by the intellectual property owner, its agent, or the law. The information provided in the notice is accurate, and I swear under penalty of perjury that I am authorized to make the complaint on behalf of the intellectual property owner.


Sincerely,
Nintendo Legal
Nintendo of America Inc.
4600 150th Avenue NE
Redmond, WA 98052
425-882-2040
[email protected]


The port garnered attention for allowing players to zoom out for a complete view of Koholint Island, with all NPCs and enemies remaining active.

Unsurprisingly, Nintendo has taken action in this case, as the company is known for swiftly addressing fan projects, a trend observed over the years.

Nintendo had officially released its own remake of Link’s Awakening for the Switch in 2019.

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