 The Adventure of Link has a more complex combat system than its predecessor . Armed with a sword and shield , Link must alternate between standing and crouching positions in order to attack enemies and defend himself ; for example , the Iron Knuckle enemy changes the height of its attack and its shield depending on Link 's current stance , forcing Link to change stances until he has a chance to attack safely . Link has the ability to jump , which can be used for attacking tall or airborne enemies , and can be used for evasion . Eventually , he can learn techniques for downward and upward stabs in midair . 
