Welcome to Hyrule!
Greetings, hero of time! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of your epic journey in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Whether you're a seasoned veteran returning to Hyrule or a new adventurer experiencing this masterpiece for the first time, this guide is designed to provide clear, actionable strategies and ensure you uncover every secret.
We'll cover everything from the initial steps in Kokiri Forest to the final confrontation with Ganondorf, including detailed dungeon walkthroughs, item locations, side quests, and boss strategies. Prepare to save Hyrule!
Getting Started: Kokiri Forest
Your adventure begins in the peaceful Kokiri Forest. As Link, the only Kokiri without a fairy, you'll first need to acquire your faithful companion, Navi. Follow these initial steps:
- Wake Up! You'll start in Link's House. Exit the house to begin.
- Meet Saria: Head to the left and speak with Saria on the bridge. She'll give you some friendly advice.
- Acquire a Sword: Your first essential item is the Kokiri Sword. To get it, you'll need to collect 10 Rupees.
- Rupee Locations:
- Tall Grass: Cut the tall grass around the village. Many patches contain single Rupees.
- Hidden Chest: Near the entrance to the Lost Woods, there's a small crawlspace. Crawl through it to find a chest containing 5 Rupees.
- Pots: Break pots inside various Kokiri houses for additional Rupees.
- Once you have 10 Rupees, head to the Kokiri Shop, located near the village entrance. Purchase the Kokiri Sword for 10 Rupees.
- Obtain a Shield: Next, you'll need the Deku Shield. This is crucial for your first dungeon.
- Deku Shield Location: The Deku Shield is also available at the Kokiri Shop. However, it costs 40 Rupees, which you won't have yet.
- Alternative Strategy: Instead of buying it, you can acquire the Deku Shield for free by completing a small challenge. Head to the training area (the area with the wooden targets). Speak to the Kokiri near the targets. He will challenge you to hit all three targets with your sword. Successfully hitting all three will reward you with the Deku Shield.
- Meet Navi: With both the Kokiri Sword and Deku Shield equipped, return to Link's House. As you approach, Navi will finally appear and join you, fulfilling the Great Deku Tree's prophecy.
- The Great Deku Tree: Follow Navi to the Great Deku Tree, located at the far end of Kokiri Forest. Speak to him to receive your first major quest: entering the Great Deku Tree dungeon.
Essential Controls & Tips
Before diving into your first dungeon, familiarize yourself with the basic controls and some helpful tips:
- A Button: Context-sensitive action (talk, open, climb, etc.).
- B Button: Use your equipped sword.
- C Buttons (Yellow): Assign items to these buttons for quick use. Press C-Up to talk to Navi for hints.
- Z Button: Z-Targeting. This locks onto enemies or important objects, making combat and interaction much easier.
- Analog Stick: Move Link.
- Start Button: Open the menu (inventory, equipment, map).
- Save Your Game: You can save your game at any time by pausing with the Start button and selecting "Save." It's wise to save frequently, especially before entering new areas or challenging encounters.
- Break Pots and Cut Grass: Always break pots and cut tall grass! They often contain Rupees, hearts, or essential ammunition like Deku Nuts and Deku Sticks.
- Talk to Everyone: NPCs often provide valuable hints, side quests, or simply add to the rich lore of Hyrule.
You are now ready to face your first challenge within the Great Deku Tree. Good luck, Link!