Link: The Faces of Evil
Link: The Faces of Evil was the result of a compromise between Nintendo and Philips after they failed to release a CD-ROM-based add-on for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. The Faces of Evil differs from most traditional Zelda games in that it is a platformer with a side-scrolling view, similar to The Adventure of Link. Levels are accessed from a world map, and more become available when Link liberates an area or defeats a boss. The game has taken a lot of criticism and is not recognized by Nintendo as part of the series.
Story
The story begins in Hyrule Castle, where a bored Link discusses the prospect of a new adventure with King Harkinian. Soon Link's hopes are fulfilled when a wizard named Gwonam arrives on a magic carpet and tells them that Ganon (the antagonist of the series) and his minions have taken the island of Koridai. Although King Harkinian immediately offers to help, Gwonam explains that according to a prophecy, "only Link can defeat Ganon." Link is taken to Koridai and Gwonam shows him the island's giant stone statues, the faces of evil that Link must defeat. While Link is on Koridai, Princess Zelda is kidnapped by Ganon and held captive in his cave. During the game, Link travels through Koridai, defeats Ganon's minions and finds an artifact, the Book of Koridai, with which he can defeat Ganon. Link confronts Ganon, who tries to recruit him with the promise of great power. Link defeats Ganon and imprisons him in the Book of Koridai before awakening the sleeping Zelda. Gwonam appears and congratulates Link on capturing Ganon. He shows them both a quickly recovering Koridai and declares Link the hero of the island. Zelda, however, refuses to kiss him as a reward.