Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3DS review

Kon'nichiwa min'na!

Okay guys! WOW, two posts in one day? What's going on? Well this is a review for a game that was actually for a competition in NAG Magazine, South Africa's leading Video Game lifestyle magazine. I highly doubt that I have won the competition, so I have decided to post the review here on my blog. Read it, and let me know on the ://HACKtheworld facebook page whether or not you think I deserve to win this competition. (If I do win, it will get published in the NAG June issue.)

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is one of those games that gamers will remember forever, especially the older folk. The problem with this title being an N64 title is that many younger gamers don’t have the chance to play older amazing games. Insert LoZ: OoT 3DS.

Less than an HD remake, and more of a port, the gameplay remains wholly similar to the original N64 version with only a few changes being made to gameplay. One of the major changes is the control and button scheme, gone are the C-buttons and added is the analogue circle pad. The touch screen inventory is a much appreciated aspect of the new 3DS version of the game, making item changes on the fly super effective (see what I did there Nintendo?).

Visually this game is as beautiful, and maybe even more so, than the original. Not only does Link and others look much smoother and less ‘blocky’ than the N64 version, but the scenery and landscapes have also had an impressive face lift. The music in game remains unchanged, which will please hardcore fans of the franchise with its stunning compositions.

As with all LoZ games story plays an imminent part of the game. And as with all LoZ games (Except a few) this iteration is no different. The story is compelling and keeps the player immersed until the end. The dungeons and puzzles are challenging and engaging at the best of times, but can be somewhat frustrating (Water Temple). Some puzzles are definitely more puzzling than others, but the feeling of accomplishment that you get after beating a Boss Battle is welcome.

After beating the game the player is given access to the Master Quest, which gives players an extra challenge. Playing the game the second time is a must, because you’re sure to miss out on a few things on your first play through, also for those who want 100% game completion a second play through is definitely needed. Another cool aspect is the Boss Challenge Mode which lets you battle all your favourite Bosses over and over again.

Review by Matthew Loom

Pros

Sticks to the original, amazing 3D graphics, challenging

Cons

Challenging, Water Temple

Summary

This is a must have for new and older fans alike. This is an excellent attempt at a remake and is well executed. This will keep newer fans intrigued and older fans of the series happy with the unchanged gameplay.

Score

95/100