The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Koholint Island Reimagined by Dozens of Artists

The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening remains one of the most beloved entries in Nintendo’s long-running franchise.

Originally released for the Game Boy in 1993, its imaginative world and evocative art style have continued to inspire players and creators alike.

Now, a new collaborative initiative called Retro Redrawn is breathing fresh life into Link’s iconic adventure with a complete artistic reimagining of Koholint Island. This latest project brings together dozens of talented illustrators who have meticulously recreated every area of Link’s Awakening’s Koholint Island map.

Unlike previous Retro Redrawn efforts that focused on Pokémon’s Kanto and Johto regions, this is the collective’s first foray into The Legend of Zelda series.

Spearheaded by the artist and organizer Blindeduif, the project celebrates the creative community’s passion for Nintendo’s classics by utilizing modern digital techniques to reinterpret and enhance every corner of the original Game Boy landscape. The remarkable compilation is now available to the public through the official Retro Redrawn website, where fans can take a virtual tour of the reimagined Koholint.

The revamp highlights everything from lush forests and mysterious dungeons to bustling village squares—all rendered in a variety of unique artistic voices.

The painstaking attention to detail reinforces the enduring charm and artistic versatility of the original Link’s Awakening, which also saw renewed popularity following its 2019 Nintendo Switch remake. Reflecting on the scope and ambition of the effort, Blindeduif expressed gratitude to the team of contributors, noting that "each artist contributed their vision, elevating the Koholint Island map to something entirely new yet respectful of its source material." This collaborative spirit echoes the global enthusiasm that Nintendo’s franchises consistently inspire across generations. Since its first release, Link’s Awakening has sold over six million copies worldwide across various platforms, its influence evident not just in official remakes but also in fan-driven projects such as Retro Redrawn.

These community-led initiatives play a vital role in celebrating gaming history, offering both longtime fans and newcomers a fresh perspective on cherished titles. For anyone interested in video game art, The Legend of Zelda series, or the evolution of classic Nintendo worlds, the Retro Redrawn Koholint Island project is a must-see.

Visit the official Retro Redrawn website to experience the full exhibition and appreciate the creativity and dedication that went into this vibrant tribute.

Zelda The Legend of Zelda Legend of Zelda Link The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening Awakening Retro Redrawn Nintendo Blindeduif Koholint Island Game Boy Nintendo Switch