The Nintendo 64 game, Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, is widely considered one of the greatest video games of all time. Released in 1998, it set a new standard for 3D gaming and has captivated players for decades with its timeless gameplay, rich storytelling, and captivating world.
If you’re ready to embark on an epic adventure through Hyrule as the legendary hero, Link, then this ultimate walkthrough is for you. We’ll cover everything from basic mechanics to advanced strategies, so whether you’re a first-time player or a seasoned veteran, you’ll have all the tips and tricks you need to conquer Ocarina of Time.
Introduction to Ocarina of Time
First, let’s take a quick look at the significance of Ocarina of Time and its basic mechanics. The game follows the story of Link, a young boy who must save the land of Hyrule from the evil Ganondorf. Along the way, he must navigate through dungeons, solve puzzles, and battle powerful bosses to collect the spiritual stones and awaken the sages.
Ocarina of Time was groundbreaking for its time, introducing a fully realized 3D world with advanced graphics and gameplay mechanics. It also introduced a time travel system, where players could switch between child and adult versions of Link to complete different tasks and progress through the story.
Starting Your Adventure
To begin your journey, insert the N64 game cartridge into the console and turn it on. From the main menu, select “Start” to begin a new game. You’ll be prompted to enter a name for your character, and then the game will begin.
You’ll start off in Kokiri Forest, home to the Kokiri people and Link’s childhood friend, Saria. Use the control stick to move around, and the A button to interact with objects and characters. As you explore, you’ll learn more about the world and its inhabitants.
Step 1: Kokiri Forest
Kokiri Forest serves as the tutorial area for the game, and it’s where you’ll learn the basics of movement, combat, and item usage. Follow the path until you reach a large tree known as the Great Deku Tree.
Step 2: Inside the Deku Tree
After meeting with the Great Deku Tree, he will request that you venture inside to defeat the evil lurking within. This serves as the first dungeon in the game, and it’s where you’ll learn how to navigate through dungeons and solve puzzles.
To progress through the dungeon, you’ll need to find the map, compass, and boss key. These items are essential for completing any dungeon in Ocarina of Time. Once you’ve obtained them, you’ll be ready to face the boss, Queen Gohma.
Obtaining Key Items
Throughout your journey, you’ll come across various key items that are necessary for completing the game. Here are some tips for finding some of the most important items.
Fairy Slingshot
The Fairy Slingshot is an essential item for reaching distant targets and solving puzzles. You can obtain it by completing the Deku Tree dungeon or by purchasing it from the Kokiri Shop after obtaining a few rupees.
Bombs
Bombs are another crucial item that you’ll need for defeating enemies and destroying obstacles. You can purchase them from the Bombchu Bowling Alley, or you can find them in various locations throughout the game.
Hookshot
The Hookshot is a versatile tool that allows you to grapple onto distant objects and pull yourself towards them. It’s essential for navigating through certain dungeons, and you can obtain it by completing the Water Temple.
Navigating Dungeons
Dungeons are a major part of Ocarina of Time, and there are several throughout the game. Each dungeon has its own unique challenges and puzzles, so here’s a walkthrough for some of the most important ones.
Dodongo’s Cavern
Dodongo’s Cavern is the second dungeon in the game, located in Death Mountain. It’s home to the Gorons and their leader, Darunia. To progress through this dungeon, you’ll need to use bombs to blast open walls and defeat enemies.
Jabu-Jabu’s Belly
Jabu-Jabu’s Belly is the third dungeon in the game, and it’s located inside the giant fish, Jabu-Jabu. To access the dungeon, you’ll need to rescue Princess Ruto from the Zoras and bring her to Jabu-Jabu. Inside, you’ll need to navigate through the belly of the beast and defeat the boss, Barinade.
Forest Temple
The Forest Temple is the first temple you’ll encounter as adult Link. It’s located in the Lost Woods and is home to the evil undead warrior, Phantom Ganon. To complete this dungeon, you’ll need to find and defeat the Poe Sisters and then face off against Phantom Ganon in a one-on-one battle.
Boss Battle Strategies
Boss battles are some of the most challenging parts of Ocarina of Time, but with the right strategies, you can defeat them all.
Queen Gohma
Queen Gohma is the boss of the Deku Tree dungeon, and she’s not too difficult to defeat. Use your Fairy Slingshot to shoot her in the eye when she opens it, and she’ll drop to the ground stunned. Then, use your sword to attack her weak spot on her belly until she’s defeated.
King Dodongo
King Dodongo is the boss of Dodongo’s Cavern, and he’s a bit tougher than Queen Gohma. Wait for him to open his mouth, then throw a bomb inside and quickly run away before he explodes. Repeat this process a few times, and he’ll be defeated.
Phantom Ganon
Phantom Ganon is the boss of the Forest Temple, and he can be tricky to defeat. Use your sword to reflect his energy balls back at him when he’s on his horse, and then chase after him when he disappears into one of the paintings. Hit him with your sword when you catch up, and repeat until he’s defeated.
Side Quests and Secrets
In addition to the main story, there are also side quests and hidden secrets throughout Ocarina of Time. These can earn you extra heart pieces and other valuable items.
Heart Pieces
Heart pieces are essential for increasing your health bar, and there are 36 of them scattered throughout Hyrule. Some can be found in chests or by defeating enemies, while others require completing mini-games or trading with characters.
Biggoron Sword
The Biggoron Sword is a powerful two-handed sword that deals twice as much damage as the Master Sword. To obtain it, you’ll need to complete a series of trading quests that start with the Cuccos in Kakariko Village and end with the giant Goron in Death Mountain.
Time Travel Mechanics
One of the most unique features of Ocarina of Time is its time travel system. Here’s a breakdown of how it works and some tips for using it effectively.
The Master Sword
The Master Sword is a powerful weapon that can only be wielded by the Hero of Time. As adult Link, you can retrieve it from the Temple of Time, but be warned – once you do, you’ll be stuck in the future until you complete certain tasks.
Switching Between Child and Adult Link
To switch between child and adult Link, you’ll need to use the Master Sword at the Altar of Time in the Temple of Time. This will transport you to the other time period, but be aware that some events and items may be different depending on which period you’re in.
Final Challenges
The final challenges of Ocarina of Time are some of the most difficult yet rewarding experiences in the game. Here’s how to complete them and defeat Ganondorf once and for all.
Final Dungeons
Before facing Ganondorf, you’ll need to complete two final dungeons – the Shadow Temple and Spirit Temple. These are both challenging dungeons with powerful enemies and tricky puzzles, so be prepared.
Journey to Ganon’s Castle
Once you’ve completed the final dungeons, you’ll need to make your way to Ganon’s Castle. On the way, you’ll encounter several mini-bosses and obstacles, so make sure you have plenty of health and supplies before entering.
Facing Ganondorf
In the final showdown, you’ll face off against Ganondorf in his castle. Use your shield to deflect his energy balls, and then strike him with your sword when he’s stunned. Repeat this process until he transforms into his monstrous Ganon form.
Defeating Ganon
Ganon is the final boss of Ocarina of Time, and he’s not an easy adversary. Use your Hookshot to stun him and then strike him with your sword when he’s vulnerable. Watch out for his powerful attacks and keep attacking until you defeat him.
Conclusion
Congratulations, you’ve completed the ultimate N64 Zelda: Ocarina of Time walkthrough! We hope these expert tips and tricks helped you conquer one of the greatest video games of all time. Remember, the world of Hyrule is vast, and there are always new secrets to discover, so don’t be afraid to explore and try new strategies. Happy gaming!
