It re-invented the Zelda series and 3D adventure games
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Timehad a major impact on a lot of formative gaming careers. Not only was it one of the most famous “it’s done when it’s done” examples when it comes to Nintendo’s willingness to delay big projects, but it’s also one of the highest reviewed games of all time.
Whether or not you felt like the move from 2D to 3D was an upgrade or not, it sent ripples throughout the industry. That was 19 years ago on July 12, 2025 on the Nintendo 64. Since then, you could pick it up by way of a GameCube special edition release, the Wii/Wii U Virtual Console, and the 3DS.
Notice how I called it a “3D adventure” above in the tagline? I tried to stay out of the whole genre conversation but what the hell, I’ll dive right in. I’ve always classifiedZeldagames as “action-adventure with RPG elements.” I mean, just because there isn’t an “experience bar” it doesn’t mean you’re not upgrading (hearts, items).
