Ocarina of Time has probably been called “the greatest of all time” more than any other game in history. Even though there’s other games I prefer from a story, gameplay, visual, or auditory perspective, this one is definitely still one of the best with how engrossed I get into the land of Hyrule.
Nearly every 3D Zelda has offered increasingly larger worlds to explore, but I really appreciate how quaint this one can feel in comparison. It’s large enough for the setting of an adventure with diverse biomes, but compact enough that you can appreciate each unique character living within the world. This cast of NPCs especially charming, with distinctive personalities and designs. The price-rigging bean salesman and obsessive running man are my favorites and such funny additions to the world. The selection of locations are another highlight, with this entry having my favorite assortment of dungeons in the series. Jabu Jabu, the Bottom of the Well, and the Forest Temple are especially distinctive dungeons that have truly one-of-a-kind theming and puzzles. Even moments that can get repetitive in areas like the Water Temple are helped out by a great soundtrack and rooms with incredible atmosphere.
It’s been about 10 years since I last did a playthrough of Ocarina of Time, but this was a treat to return to. Maybe 25 years is too soon to say for sure, but this game is one of the best examples that some masterpieces can be truly timeless.
Part of the Glitchwave Top 100 Project (#31/100)
Nearly every 3D Zelda has offered increasingly larger worlds to explore, but I really appreciate how quaint this one can feel in comparison. It’s large enough for the setting of an adventure with diverse biomes, but compact enough that you can appreciate each unique character living within the world. This cast of NPCs especially charming, with distinctive personalities and designs. The price-rigging bean salesman and obsessive running man are my favorites and such funny additions to the world. The selection of locations are another highlight, with this entry having my favorite assortment of dungeons in the series. Jabu Jabu, the Bottom of the Well, and the Forest Temple are especially distinctive dungeons that have truly one-of-a-kind theming and puzzles. Even moments that can get repetitive in areas like the Water Temple are helped out by a great soundtrack and rooms with incredible atmosphere.
It’s been about 10 years since I last did a playthrough of Ocarina of Time, but this was a treat to return to. Maybe 25 years is too soon to say for sure, but this game is one of the best examples that some masterpieces can be truly timeless.
Part of the Glitchwave Top 100 Project (#31/100)