The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

What can I say about this game that hasn't already been said? This is probably the best game ever made for the N64. I don't think anything will ever be able to top it--at least not in this decade. Copies of it were impossible to find in Christmas of 1998 due to fan rampage, and it has dominated Nintendo Power's ratings charts since its release. This game is a reminder of why Shigeru Miyamoto is still the master of all video games. This is the greatest game I've ever played, and I still find myself going back to it again and again.

Speaking of which, I've played through Ocarina three whole times and counting. I've basically memorized every dungeon layout, most of the dialog, and the location of most of the Gold Skulltulas. Am I obsessed? Probably. I simply LOVE this game and I can't get enough of it.

Perhaps that is the only flaw in the game. My first run through took me about 80 hours, but each subsequent play through has been much shorter. I wish the game was longer. Oh sure, there are plenty of dungeons (including that merciless Water Temple!), but I would've liked more exploring. Hyrule Field is such a vast area full of secrets, and I wish there was another area like it in the game. Perhaps a larger Gerudo Valley, for example? After all, what could be better than Zelda other than more Zelda?

If you haven't played this game (yeah right), you're missing out on the best the N64 has to offer. So get out of your cave and go buy it. And I won't reveal any more details because Zelda is much better if you explore it on your own. Happy gaming!



Midnight's Grade: A+


Written February 2001


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