Zelda Walkthrough Ocarina of Time – Full Game Guide

For many gamers, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains a timeless masterpiece. Released in 1998 on the Nintendo 64, this groundbreaking action-adventure game set a new standard with its captivating story, immersive world, and innovative gameplay mechanics. Whether you’re new to the game or revisiting it, this full walkthrough will guide you through every area, help you defeat enemies, and uncover hidden secrets.

Starting the Adventure: Kokiri Forest and Deku Tree

The game begins with Link waking up in Kokiri Forest, a peaceful woodland home to the Kokiri people. After receiving a mission from the Great Deku Tree, you’ll need to acquire both the Kokiri Sword and Deku Shield. Once equipped, enter the Great Deku Tree for your first dungeon.

Inside, you’ll face spiders, Deku Scrubs, and various puzzles. The key to defeating Queen Gohma, the first boss, is using your Fairy Slingshot. Wait until her eye turns red, then strike her with your slingshot to stun her before delivering sword blows.

The First Three Spiritual Stones

After defeating Queen Gohma, you’re tasked with retrieving the three Spiritual Stones:

1. Dodongo’s Cavern: Found in Death Mountain, this fiery dungeon introduces bombs as a key item. You’ll use them to solve puzzles and defeat King Dodongo by throwing bombs into his mouth as he inhales.

2. Inside Jabu-Jabu’s Belly: Located in Zora's Domain, this dungeon requires you to carry Princess Ruto through its jelly-like interiors. To defeat the boss Barinade, use your Boomerang to cut the electrical connections before attacking its core.

3. Goron Ruby: Completing these dungeons will earn you the Goron Ruby and the Zora Sapphire, which are needed to unlock the Temple of Time.

Becoming an Adult: Master Sword and the Temple Challenges

With the Spiritual Stones collected, head to Hyrule Castle to open the Temple of Time. Inside, you’ll pull the Master Sword from its pedestal, transforming Link into an adult and thrusting you seven years into the future.

Your next objective is to save the six sages trapped in the following temples:

1. Forest Temple: Located in the ruins of Kokiri Forest, this temple introduces the Hookshot. You’ll need it to defeat the boss Phantom Ganon, using it to knock him off his horse and reflect his magic attacks.

2. Fire Temple: In Death Mountain Crater, this fiery dungeon is home to the lava dragon Volvagia. Use the Megaton Hammer to knock him out of the sky and finish him off with sword strikes.

3. Water Temple: Infamous for its complexity, this dungeon involves adjusting the water levels to reach new areas. Defeating Dark Link can be tricky; try using items like the Megaton Hammer or Din’s Fire. The boss Morpha requires accurate use of the Longshot to pull its core out of the water.

4. Shadow Temple: Deep within Kakariko Village, this eerie temple requires the Lens of Truth to navigate invisible pathways. Bongo Bongo, the final boss, can only be defeated by stunning his hands before aiming at his exposed eye.

5. Spirit Temple: This temple involves a combination of young and adult Link gameplay. The bosses, Twinrova, require you to reflect their fire and ice spells using the Mirror Shield.

Final Battle: Confronting Ganondorf

With all the sages freed, you’ll head to Ganon's Castle for the final showdown. The castle is divided into sections, each themed after one of the previous temples. Solving puzzles in each section will weaken the barrier around Ganondorf's lair.

In the final battle with Ganondorf, use the Master Sword to reflect his magic attacks back at him. After climbing to the top of his tower, you’ll face his final form, Ganon. Use the Light Arrows to stun him, then strike with the Master Sword to defeat him and save Hyrule.

Conclusion

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is an epic journey filled with complex dungeons, challenging bosses, and hidden secrets. This walkthrough provides a roadmap through the game’s most difficult areas, but the true magic of Ocarina of Time lies in its exploration and discovery. Whether it’s your first time in Hyrule or your tenth, this guide will help you conquer every challenge and enjoy one of the greatest games of all time.

FAQ

1. How do I unlock the Master Sword?
After collecting all three Spiritual Stones, head to the Temple of Time in Hyrule Castle to pull the Master Sword from the pedestal.

2. What’s the hardest dungeon in Ocarina of Time?
Many players consider the Water Temple the most difficult due to its water-level puzzles and layout.

3. Can I play Ocarina of Time on the Switch?
Yes, the game is available through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack with access to N64 games.

4. How do I defeat Dark Link?
Use items like the Megaton Hammer or Din’s Fire to bypass Dark Link’s sword-fighting skills.

5. How long does it take to complete Ocarina of Time?
The main quest typically takes around 25-30 hours, while completing all side quests can extend the game to 40+ hours.