95
MobyRank
100 point score based on reviews from various critics.
4.1
MobyScore
5 point score based on user ratings.

The Press Says

MobyRanks are listed below. You can read here for more information about MobyRank.
100
GameGenie
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a great game. It's a great game for those new to the series and for hardcore Zelda fans. The St. Petersburg Times dubbed Ocarina of Time "the Gone with the Wind of video games." I can not find the words to describe it better.
100
GamesAreFun.com (GAF)
The Legend of Zelda: The Ocarina of Time embodies all of the fantastic qualities that made the series popular. By keeping the classic style Zelda gameplay and moving one of gaming's most cherished franchises from 2D to 3D. With the Ocarina of Time, Nintendo broke new ground and created a masterpiece that is sure to be enjoyed by gamers for years and years to come like it's predecessors have done.
100
Nintendojo
The Nintendo 64 just picked up a third system seller, one that bears as much weight as Mario 64 and Goldeneye did. This is some downright good stuff for all ages and the girls too. Just be sure you pick up a copy, gold or no. You can't afford to miss it.
100
Nintendo Gamers First
Nintendo promised a lot, and in the end they actually delivered more than they promised. As the first Zelda game did, this game totally redefines the genre. There is nothing as good as this one any other current system (and yes, I do have a PSX), and this finally solidifies the N64 as a gaming machine for the serious gamer. The bar has been raised, and this game definitely deserves to be called the "Game of the Century".
100
Cincinnati Enquirer
But if that’s what it takes, run out and get on that list. This Zelda adventure will undoubtedly withstand the test of time and take its place as one of the best games to ever grace a home system.
100
Retrogaming.it
La perfezione esiste e fa parte indiscutibilmente di The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, tutti i premi vinti e le classifiche di vendita superate rappresentano la testimonianza matematica di ciò che vi dico e non mi sorprendo se oggi ogni volta che ripenso a questo immenso capolavoro non posso fare a meno di rimanere incantato in un silenzio vuoto e malinconico; purtroppo mi manca e non sapete quanto, aver avuto il grande onore di essere l’eroe bambino del videogioco più bello di tutti i tempi
100
Thunderbolt Games
The old-school gameplay of The Legend of Zelda was not flipped upside-down when Ocarina of Time came out. The translation to a new console and new controller was smooth, and Link adapted to his 3D world just fine. Ocarina of Time is remembered today not because of its dungeons, or its control scheme, or any of the nuts and bolts of its design. It was a game that went beyond the standards; it became more than the sum of its parts. The world of Hyrule was a fascinating place to explore, and its sense of connectivity is what keeps Ocarina of Time a bastion of adventure gaming. Plenty of games have innovated far more than Zelda, but more recent Zelda games have been praised even higher than them. Nothing has changed on the gameplay front since Ocarina, but we continue to heap praise onto the series.
100
PGNx Media
Overall, Miyamoto created yet another masterpiece that was universally acclaimed to be the greatest game ever, and it certanly lives up to the standards quite nicely. This game won fourteen awards including Game of the Year and it swept all of the majors. In any event, everyone should play this game and everyone should finish it at one point in their lives.
100
All Game Guide
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a game that actually surpasses any expectations you may have going into it, which is an enormous feat given the amount of media attention, hype and buildup leading to its pre-Thanksgiving 1998 release. Now that it is here, expect to be drawn into a magical world that seems amazingly lifelike and completely unforgettable.
100
Game Revolution
That aside, The Legend Of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is terrific. As childish as the game sometimes looks, even adults become quickly hooked. While playing, the hours slipped quietly by without my noticing. I also developed a small audience just watching me play. Well� they were talking, too: "Turn left here. No, left. Are you sure? What is that thing? Jump on the box." Sigh.

Zelda is easily the best RPG for the N64, and a must buy for N64 owners this year. It's very cool, and there's really nothing to compare it to. Get it for your kids, get it for yourself (or just pretend that you're getting it for your kids�).
100
Adrenaline Vault, The (AVault)
Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the complete package appealing to one and all, and is the definitive accomplishment in game design. When the audience age of a game ranges from 1 1/2 to over 75 how can it have competition? With awesome graphics, beautiful music, great sounds, good control, and fun, fun, fun Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a must have for all owners of the N64. Is it the greatest game of all time? Well, that's always a subjective opinion, and one that can be answered each way. But I will say this, I don't know where my copy of Goldeneye is.
100
Game Critics
While game designers these days migrate towards gore and violence, Miyamoto has made a name for himself (and quite a bit of money for Nintendo), creating fun games that transcends all age groups and are cherished for generations. His genius is further proven when others trying to copy his style fail miserably. High praise goes to them for also managing to fit joy, creativity and discovery into the game and doing so without the use of Full-Motion Video (FMV) and the CD soundtrack his critics said was needed. This game is simply the most complete experience of any game ever made making Ocarina Of Time the game I've always dreamed of playing.
100
GameSpot
This game is the real thing. This is the masterpiece that people will still be talking about ten years down the road. This is the game that perfectly exhibits the "quality not quantity" mantra that Nintendo has been touting since the N64 was released. In a word, perfect. To call it anything else would be a bald-faced lie.
100
IGN
Rarely is there such a perfect mixture of graphics, sound, and gameplay that even the most cynical players will admit that Zelda 64 is poised to shape the action RPG genre for years to come.
100
Nintendo Land
If You own a N64 and have not played this wonderful game, You're missing out on what EGM magazine called " The best game of the century."
99
Power Unlimited
We hebben er lang op moeten wachten, maar het was de moeite waard. Met Zelda - The Ocarina of Time heeft Miyamoto een meesterwerk afgeleverd. Liefhebbers van het genre moeten dit spel in hun bezit hebben.
97
Game Freaks 365
Ocarina of Time deserves the masterpiece title that it’s earned over the years, and if you in some way have managed to avoid playing it in some form, do it now. Ocarina of Time is memorable and will long be remembered for its greatness in storytelling, character development, and level design. Though Twilight Princess and even Majora’s Mask outdo it in some ways, it stands the test of time better than any game out there.
95
Netjak
I really hope to encourage those who forgot about this now classic, to dust off the gold cover and pop in old school cart goodness. You'll be glad you did... For those who don't have the game, I really encourage you to give this a peep. You can find the game for around 20 bucks on Ebay, but I've seen them laying around yard sales for under five clams.
95
RPGFan
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is as close to perfect in its execution as I've ever seen a video game come. Most of the flaws I found were due to technology limitations and personal preference. It is the best game I've played this year, if not the most original. It has taken 3D to a level that only better technology could possibly surpass. It is visual bliss and pure fun to play. If you miss out on this one, you're really missing out on one of the best gaming experiences you could possibly have. It may not be the N64's savior, it may not be perfect or the best game ever, but its creators are deserving of the praise they have received. Borrow, beg or steal but at least play this game once.
95
Gaming Age
Taken altogether, Zelda: OoT is perhaps the best game released this year. Featuring unparalleled 3D environments, a deep and involved quest, brilliant and intuitive play controls, and a well-developed cinematic quality that enhances rather than overwhelms the whole game experience, Miyamoto's latest soon-to-be-classic title deserves to be played by each and every person who might deign to consider themselves a fan of great games.
94
Mygamer.com
This review is as objective as possible considering it covers an undeniably monumental title that has left its indelible mark on videogame history. Not to mention that it's a game close to the hearts of many, many gamers. But an examination with the numbers must also be given. Certainly, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is not perfect (is any game?). But its beauty lies in the fact that some of its blemishes are not readily apparent until after a deep and thorough examination, and other flaws actually turn into advantages. The player will be drawn into the Zelda fantasy world from the moment the opening sequence bursts onto the screen, and the game won't let go - not even after finishing the quest. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is an evergreen experience that shouldn't be missed by any genuine lover of videogames. And it is a shining beacon that exists as an exemplary example of the reach - in terms of stirring emotions - that a videogame can have.
93
GameQuarter
TLoZ: OoT is in ieder geval een game om U tegen te zeggen. Een game die je jaren later nog moeiteloos oppakt. Een game van top kwaliteit. Volgens sommige zelfs de beste game ooit gemaakt. Zover zou ik niet willen. Maar hij komt heel erg dicht in de buurt! Het verhaal is betoverend, mystiek, groots en waterdicht. Je zult gebieden ontdekken die uniek zijn, en één van de grootste avonturen ooit op je beeldscherm meemaken. Need I say more?
90
HappyPuppy
This title invites a wide range of gamers: young and old will be able to understand and enjoy the puzzles and the story. Adventure and RPG junkies will find their thirst quenched as well. This is a true adventure, meaning you will feel as though you're really searching and exploring this world. Many gamers have clamored for games that are less linear and allow for free roaming and wandering. If that's you, stop reading this and run to the store: you can wander and explore and collect goodies to your heart's content. On the other hand, you can follow the main story line and play through in a relatively linear fashion. As with any RPG, there is exploration that must be done but you are guided to the appropriate locations.
90
Computer and Video Games (CVG)
The most exciting aspect of Zelda is how it balances the story element with the action element. Even the Tomb Raider series has never quite managed this, keeping the combat aspects of the game remote and approximate. In Zelda, combat is up close and completely precise. Link is capable of an astonishingly wide range of actions. His range of weapons is pretty impressive, from slingshots to boomerangs, bombchus and increasingly powerful swords. Later in the game, really powerful weapons like the Megaton Hammer up the ante with his terrifying enemies. A whole range of magical spells can be found and cast, via his fairy companion Navi.
90
AllRPG
OoT set the stage for any upcoming RPGs for N64 and Playstation. N64 has shown that you can pull off a fully 3-D adventure without much disruptions. The themes were original, and not stolen, the bosses were very original fight wise, but the enemies were sometimes "borrowed" from other games, but that just adds nostalgia to the great series we have come to love. Expect this game to occupy your time for about a week, and it's a definite buy. OoT doesn't have alot of immediate replay value, but you'll go back to it in time--guaranteed.
90
HonestGamers
Whether you’re imagining horrors that lie in the shadows or the rush of wind against your face as you ride a horse over a vast prarie, Hyrule is a world full of wonder. As games go, Ocarina of Time is one of the very best for the Nintendo 64, or any system you care to name. Even when you know what lies through that door in the Fire Temple, you’ll want to pass through it again. Saving Hyrule never goes out of style.
90
Cubed3
There are certain moments here that are pure magic, moments that truly grab the player and make you show emotion and pride. I could go on about the games other features that make it so great, but quite frankly why should I? What I have said already is easily enough to make this one of the best games ever, but the fact that is offers so much more than all the competition is a true measure of how special this game is.
90
Jeuxvideo.com
Après Mario, qu'on considérait à l'époque comme le meilleur jeu du monde, Zelda est en passe de détrôner son ainé, tant la réalisation est époustouflante et la durée de vie immense !
86
GameCola.net
The controls for this game are excellent. Aside from some small glitches here and there, probably due to the age of my controller, they were perfect. You won't have to worry about having difficulties performing simple tasks with this game. I can make no such guarantee about more difficult tasks, but they wouldn't be difficult if I could.
84
Christ Centered Game Reviews
Because of the dark elements, this game does not score very high in the Appropriateness category. In the game, there is a story about three goddesses creating the earth and all life on it. This strongly goes against the Christian religion. Plus, there is use of magic and spells. (Only three though). Violence is really not a problem, and the dark elements are nothing worse than J.R.R. Tolkien's writing.
83
The Video Game Critic
This ambitious action/RPG title had a lot to live up to. Not only is it the sequel to one of the greatest video games of all time (Legend of Zelda Link to the Past, SNES 1992), but Ocarina of Time was the first to bring Zelda into the world of 3D.
80
RPGamer
Despite the jump to 3D changing the feel of the Zelda series, it is still a good transition. Though the story is lacking, dungeons are not and this is an excellent choice for Zelda and action RPG fans alike. I recommend it to any who enjoyed similar games.


Our Users Say

Category Description MobyScore
AI How smart (or dumb) you perceive the game's artificial intelligence to be 3.7
Gameplay How well the game mechanics work (player controls, game action, interface, etc.) 4.2
Graphics The quality of the art, or the quality/speed of the drawing routines 4.2
Personal Slant How much you personally like the game, regardless of other attributes 4.1
Sound / Music The quality of the sound effects and/or music composition 4.2
Story / Presentation The main creative ideas in the game and how well they're executed 4.1
Overall MobyScore (241 votes) 4.1


User Reviews

The Zelda Game You Knew Was Coming, But Only After A Long Wait MasterMegid (858) 3.5 Stars3.5 Stars3.5 Stars3.5 Stars3.5 Stars
A masterpiece of epic proportions and the best 2D to 3D transition ever! Amazing and timeless! Rensch (165) 5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars
Impressive production values, cool gameplay elements... but it is still a game for children Unicorn B. Lynx Bronze Star Contributing Member (60749) 3 Stars3 Stars3 Stars3 Stars3 Stars
Absolutely stunning... Mike Wilson (3) 5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars
Possibly the Best Game of ALL Time! SkyMarshall (4) 5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars
I just don't get the hype. Are grownups supposed to play this game? kbmb Bronze Star Contributing Member (399) 1.5 Stars1.5 Stars1.5 Stars1.5 Stars1.5 Stars
One of the very best console games. Ran Prieur (19) 4.83 Stars4.83 Stars4.83 Stars4.83 Stars4.83 Stars
A game for all time and for all player ages! Matthew Broussard (7) 4.17 Stars4.17 Stars4.17 Stars4.17 Stars4.17 Stars
The long wait was worth every second. Kartanym Bronze Star Contributing Member (9910) 5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars5 Stars
A Masterpiece, that stands today still as the best single player expirence ever. Darkflame (15) 4.5 Stars4.5 Stars4.5 Stars4.5 Stars4.5 Stars

 

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