Bunny Link is a form of Link in A Link to the Past,[name reference needed] appearing as a fluffy anthropomorphic pink rabbit wearing a green tunic. Link is transformed into this form as a result of entering the Dark World, the corrupted version of the Sacred Realm by Ganon's heart, which changes people to reflect their true nature.[1]
In this form, although cute-looking, Link is completely defenseless and cannot use any of his weapons or his Shield. He can retain his original form after obtaining the Moon Pearl from the Tower of Hera.[2][3][4]
Transformation
When Link climbs Death Mountain on his quest to find the three Pendants of Virtue, he finds a portal in the north-east side of the mountain that teleports him to the Dark World's counterpart. Without the Moon Pearl, Link finds himself transformed into Bunny Link. A Bully and his friend nearby explains to him how the world transforms anyone who enters in reflection of their true nature. Once Link obtains the Moon Pearl from the Tower of Hera, he will no longer transform into Bunny Link whenever he enters the Dark World.
In certain Dark World dungeons, Link can temporarily be re-transformed into a rabbit regardless if he has the Moon Pearl by coming in contact with rotating, golden star-shaped objects called Rabbit Beams. However, this change wears off after five seconds or after being hit by an enemy.
It is likely Link changes into a bunny in the Dark World due to the fact that the hero's heart is pure and he travels far and wide in his adventure, which real-world rabbits often do and are viewed as pure animals in some cultures.
A Link to the Past (Cagiva)
Trivia
- Ironically, actual rabbits can be found in A Link to the Past and some later games of The Legend of Zelda series.
- Ravio from A Link Between Worlds may be a homage to Bunny Link, as his mask has a rabbit motif and he originates from Lorule, a land that is nearly identical to the Dark World. The Zelda Encyclopedia confirms this was indeed the inspiration.[5]
- If Link obtains the Blue or Red Mail, his bunny form will also wear said Tunic.
- Some video game franchises and other media have featured heroic bunny characters that are pure of heart in a similar manner as Bunny Link. The most famous examples include Cream the Rabbit or My Melody from the Sonic the Hedgehog and Hello Kitty series, respectively.
Gallery
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Bunny Link in the A Link to the Past manga by Ataru Cagiva
References
- ↑ "Everyone who wanders into this land is changed to a shape that reflects his true nature." — Bully's Friend (A Link to the Past)
- ↑ "The Moon Pearl will protect its bearer from the magical air of the Golden Land, so you can keep your human shape there." — Great Fairy (A Link to the Past)
- ↑ "An orb known as the Moon Pearl rests in this tower. He who holds the Moon Pearl is protected, and his form will not change in the Dark World." — Sahasrahla (A Link to the Past)
- ↑ "But if you have a ball called the Moon Pearl, you can keep your original shape here." — Bully's Friend (A Link to the Past)
- ↑ Encyclopedia, Dark Horse Books, pg. 302