Yes!! Fully completed the Hard Patch without save state and recorded my journey. All that is left now is the Great Palace in icepenguin’s Part 2. Might take some time, it is the most challenging puzzle yet! Great job. But this review is for icepenguin’s Part 3, so, let’s begin.

I started the_icepenguin’s hacks in order (up to Journey of a Day), but have completed them backwards, saving the most difficult for last. Path of least resistance, seems like. Personally, I fell in love with Part 2 and 3 the most, equally in their own ways. I really like how they stay true to the original graphics, but, icepenguin has so many surprises included to spice them up, I couldn’t get enough.

I must say, I’m shocked that these two hacks aren’t hyped up more, they are outstanding pieces of work. I’m likely in the minority who enjoy extreme challenges, so that might be why it feels that these were made specifically for me!!

Better move on before I get carried away. So, on to the actual game, Zelda II: Part 3.

A brand new overworld. Pure awesome all on its own. Having to search Hyrule far and wide for secrets. The storyline and progression of the palaces is quite unique and I like the Sacred Altar idea, much different than Part 2. Using Jump and Fire change Link’s colour, which is a nice touch. You need the downstab to complete the game, which is fine by me, but I really did enjoy how Part 2 had them disabled.

As with his other hacks, it’s tough early on. You have to be willing to bang out your levels to even the playing field. Things get a lot easier after that. BUT, icepenguin made a couple sinister palaces, so beware. A bit of patience may be required to fail and learn! I think my favourite part was the Thunderbird. Best Thunderbird ever. So difficult, what a joy it was to finally take him down. Very fun.

If you like Zelda II and don’t mind a challenge, try out the Hard Patch and give it some time. It’s so much more rewarding when you have to fight for victory.

If there’s ever a Part 4, I’ll be the first in line. For now, Part 2 and 3 come highly recommended by me.

Thanks for another awesome adventure icepenguin!