In The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, the Moon Pearl functions as a unique, key item. Unlike one of Link's trusty weapons, this key item prevents him from becoming a rabbit in the Dark World. Upon entering the Dark World for the first time, Link becomes a defenseless bunny unable to use any of his abilities. Fortunately, he is thrust into a relatively safe part of Death Mountain. Ironic as the name sounds, there are no enemies he encounters during this time as a rabbit.
Believe it or not, the Moon Pearl appears in more than one Zelda title. While fans of A Link to the Past may be quite familiar with its simple use, Nintendo guarded some secrets many players might not be aware of. Whether for new fans of Nintendo's all-time classic or for veteran Zelda fans, players will be bound to find a few select secrets not previously known to them.
6 The Moon Pearl Reappears in Four Swords Adventures
Despite feeling like a multiplayer spin-off, Four Swords Adventures takes cues right out of the world of A Link to the Past. While the Dark World itself appears in this title, it plays out a little differently. Rather, the Moon Pearl features a new purpose.
The Moon Pearl now functions as a key to open Moon Gates. These Moon Gates open paths to the Dark World. In a way, it functions the same way as before by allowing you the necessary access. However, Nintendo included multiple Moon Pearls throughout this game.
5 Not Featured in A Link Between Worlds
Despite being a direct sequel to A Link to the Past, despite the existence of Link's Awakening, A Link Between Worlds did not feature the Moon Pearl. While Lorule feels like a sort of parallel to the Dark World with few key differences, it did not turn Link into a rabbit upon his first appearance. Rather, he could enter harmlessly.
Unlike the Dark World of A Link to the Past, Link would become a drawing while slipping through wall cracks to enter Lorule. Link's only protection amulet was given to him by Ravio in order to utilize his drawing ability. And while the rabbit transformation is gone, there certainly is one particular rabbit dwelling in the world!
4 Comes from the Tower of Hera
In order to nab the Moon Pearl, Link must trek through the game's third major dungeon. Also known as the "Mountain Tower" in the Game Boy Advance translation, the Tower of Hera's name comes from Greek Mythology. Interestingly enough, the Zelda series only seldom used real-world mythology for its inspiration throughout most of the series.
The Moon Pearl is not used officially until Link's second trip through Hyrule Castle in which he enters the Dark World shortly after. As it's not a puzzle item, he can practically sweep the dungeon without a new item. As most dungeons feature a new weapon for Link to use in combat, this granted an exception to the formula.
3 Looks Nothing Like the Artwork
In A Link to the Past's manual, the Moon Pearl looks like a blue sphere. It features a simplistic design that looks more related to a full moon. This is echoed in Four Swords Adventure's sprite as well.
However, the "alternate" artwork of the Moon Pearl looks vastly different from the intended product. It features a fuchsia and purple colored orb with moon designs adorning it. Moreover, the sprite in A Link to the Past echoed this artwork's design as well. Despite the latter being much more simplistic, the colors echoed the detail featured in said alternate artwork.
2 The Dark World Reflects One's True Nature
Whoever steps into the Dark World becomes transformed based on what is in their heart. It explains why Ganondorf transformed into the beast-like Ganon. Furthermore, the first two people Link meets, in the Dark World, are a bully monster and an indecisive pink ball.
In this case, Link becomes a rabbit likely because of his pure heart. The Moon Pearl serves to guard against that. Though, Zelda fans may recall that Link transformed into another animal in a particularly popular title once.
1 The Moon Pearl is Entirely Missable
As a dungeon item that does not function as a key or special weapon, it's entirely possible to miss the Moon Pearl in the Tower of Hera. The treasure chest is placed optionally in a room but can be scooted by in favor of the boss fight. This certainly comes into context once Link enters the Dark World before he can rescue Princess Zelda.
By defeating Agahnim and being sent to the Dark World, Link becomes a rabbit on the spot. Entering a dungeon would make fighting impossible without the Moon Pearl. However, prior to the Tower of Hera, the old man who Link guides already mentions this treasure is needed. However, unlike its counterpart, the Magic Mirror is given to Link by said old man. For reference, his house also holds a Heart Piece.