Skip to main content

Playing Ocarina of Time for the First Time: Complete Starter Guide

Are you playing Ocarina of Time for the first time? Considered one of the greatest games ever made, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake offers an unforgettable journey—but its 90s-era design philosophy can feel intimidating for modern gamers accustomed to hand-holding markers.

This beginner guide breaks down essential mechanics, exploration strategies, and tips to overcome common sticking points.

🧭 Why Does Ocarina of Time Feel Difficult for Beginners?​

Unlike modern open-world games with glowing minimap markers and quest logs, Ocarina of Time expects you to:

  1. Listen to NPC Dialogue: Townspeople reveal key clues about where to travel next.
  2. Pay Attention to Your Fairy (Navi): When Navi turns yellow or flashes, press D-Pad Up / C-Up for hints.
  3. Inspect the Environment: Crack marks on walls mean bombable secret caves; hanging vines mean climbable walls.
  4. Master Z-Targeting: Combat centers on lock-on targeting rather than button mashing.

🛡️ 5 Golden Rules for First-Time Players​

1. Lock On (Z-Targeting) is Mandatory​

Press and hold Z-Target / L-Button to lock your camera onto enemies. While targeting, Link can execute side-hops, backflips, and shield blocks automatically without turning away.

2. Get Deku Nuts Early​

Stun tough enemies (like Stalfos and Lizalfos) using Deku Nuts before striking with your sword. Stunned enemies cannot block your incoming slashes.

3. Talk to Owls & Kaepora Gaebora​

Whenever the giant owl appears, listen carefully. Warning: At the end of his speech, the default option is often "Do you want to hear that again?"—select No to proceed!

4. Upgrade Your Deku Shield & Bombs​

Buy or find a Deku Shield in Kokiri Forest before entering the Great Deku Tree. Remember: Wood shields burn if hit by fire attacks—equip the Hylian Shield when exploring Death Mountain!

5. Obtain Magic Spells​

Locate the Great Fairy Fountains in Hyrule Castle and Death Mountain early to gain Din's Fire (area-of-effect fire magic) and Farore's Wind (dungeon teleportation).

❓ Common Beginner Questions​

What should I do if I get lost?​

Check your map menu (Select / Minus), visit Saria in Lost Woods via Zelda's Lullaby for hints, or consult our step-by-step 100% Walkthrough Guide.

Can I miss any important collectibles permanently?​

No! Every item, heart piece, and Skulltula token can still be acquired at any point later in the game.

🔗 Explore More​