The Monkey Business of Link’s Awakening: A Comprehensive Guide
So, you’ve encountered a pesky primate in the enchanting world of Koholint Island. The question on your mind is: What do I do with the monkey in Link’s Awakening? The answer, like much of Link’s Awakening, is multi-faceted and depends on which monkey you’re referring to.
There are two key monkey-related interactions in the game: the coconut-throwing monkey near Toronbo Shores and Kiki, the banana-loving monkey blocking the path to Kanalet Castle. Let’s break down each scenario:
1. The Coconut-Throwing Monkey: This mischievous monkey resides in a tree near Toronbo Shores and loves nothing more than pelting unsuspecting heroes with coconuts (and even bombs!). You cannot defeat this monkey in the traditional sense. Direct attacks are futile.
The most effective strategy is avoidance. Simply run past him to minimize your chances of becoming a coconut target. However, there is a way to “deal” with him, albeit temporarily. If you have the Pegasus Boots, you can charge into the tree. This will knock the monkey out of the tree, causing it to scamper away momentarily. It won’t solve the problem permanently, but it can create a brief window for passage. So, basically, with the coconut-throwing monkey, your goal is just to not get hurt.
2. Kiki the Monkey: The Key to Kanalet Castle: Kiki is far more integral to the plot. He’s part of the long Trading Sequence, a hallmark of many Zelda games. Kiki stands guard near the entrance to Kanalet Castle, effectively blocking your progress. He has a particular craving: bananas.
To get past Kiki, you need to offer him Bananas. Once you provide this simian snack, Kiki will summon his monkey friends to build a bridge across the moat, granting you access to Kanalet Castle. Moreover, as a reward for your generosity, you’ll receive a Stick from Kiki, which is a crucial item for progressing further in the Trading Sequence. This is an example of instrumental learning, and illustrates why Games Learning Society advocates for incorporating game mechanics in education. Check out GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more.
FAQs: Monkeying Around in Koholint Island
Here’s a collection of frequently asked questions to delve deeper into the monkey-related mysteries of Link’s Awakening:
1. Where do I get the Bananas to give to Kiki?
The Bananas are obtained through the Trading Sequence. Specifically, you trade the Dog Food to Sale, who is located in Sale’s House O’ Bananas, in exchange for the Bananas.
2. What happens if I try to fight the coconut-throwing monkey?
While you can attack the tree the monkey is in, your attacks will be ineffective in truly defeating him. He will continue to throw projectiles. It’s best to avoid him or use the Pegasus Boots to temporarily stun him.
3. Is there any way to permanently get rid of the coconut-throwing monkey?
Unfortunately, no. The coconut-throwing monkey remains a persistent obstacle throughout the game. He cannot be permanently defeated.
4. What is the point of the Trading Sequence in Link’s Awakening?
The Trading Sequence is a side quest that involves exchanging items with various characters across Koholint Island. Completing it is necessary to progress the main story, as it provides key items needed to access dungeons and overcome obstacles.
5. What is Kanalet Castle, and why is it important?
Kanalet Castle is a location you need to pass in the Trading Sequence.
6. What is the next item in the Trading Sequence after the Stick from Kiki?
After receiving the Stick from Kiki, you give the Stick to the Raccoon.
7. How does the Trading Sequence help me complete the game?
The Trading Sequence provides crucial items that allow you to access new areas, solve puzzles, and ultimately progress through the game’s story.
8. Is it possible to complete Link’s Awakening without doing the Trading Sequence?
No, the Trading Sequence is essential for completing Link’s Awakening. Certain items obtained through the sequence are required to progress.
9. What are the Pegasus Boots, and how do I get them?
The Pegasus Boots are an item that allows Link to dash forward at high speed. They are found in the Key Cavern dungeon.
10. What happens if I don’t give the Bananas to Kiki?
If you don’t give Kiki the Bananas, he will not call his monkey friends, and they won’t build the bridge, preventing you from entering Kanalet Castle.
11. Can I revisit Kanalet Castle after completing it?
Yes, you can revisit Kanalet Castle after completing the dungeon to explore and collect any missed items.
12. Are there any other monkeys in Link’s Awakening besides these two?
No, these are the only two notable monkey-related characters or encounters in Link’s Awakening.
13. Does the Link’s Awakening remake change anything about the monkey encounters?
The remake of Link’s Awakening doesn’t significantly alter the monkey encounters. The core mechanics and progression remain the same.
14. What are some tips for completing the Trading Sequence efficiently?
- Keep track of the sequence: Use a guide or notepad to keep track of the items and characters involved in the Trading Sequence.
- Talk to everyone: Speak to all the NPCs in the game to find clues and trigger the next step in the sequence.
- Explore thoroughly: Explore every area of the game to find the required items and characters.
15. Is Link’s Awakening worth playing?
Absolutely! Link’s Awakening is a classic Zelda title known for its charming story, unique gameplay mechanics, and memorable characters. Whether you play the original or the remake, it’s a rewarding and unforgettable experience.
Ultimately, dealing with the monkeys in Link’s Awakening highlights the game’s blend of exploration, puzzle-solving, and quirky character interactions. From the simple act of avoiding a coconut barrage to the more involved Trading Sequence with Kiki, these encounters contribute to the game’s unique charm and enduring appeal.