Linked Game Setup & Requirements

Linked Game Setup & Requirements

The Oracle games, Seasons and Ages, are designed to be played in a "Linked Game" sequence, unlocking a true ending and additional content. This section will guide you through the process of setting up and playing a Linked Game, starting with Oracle of Seasons.

What is a Linked Game?

A Linked Game is a playthrough of one Oracle title (the "First Game") followed by the other (the "Second Game"), where data from the first game is transferred to the second. This transfer is done via a "Secret" code. Playing a Linked Game reveals the true final boss, Twinrova and Ganon, and allows you to carry over certain upgrades and items, making your second playthrough unique.

Requirements for a Linked Game

• Two Completed Save Files: You must complete one Oracle game (e.g., Oracle of Seasons) to the point of defeating the final boss and seeing the credits.
• A "Secret" Code: After completing the First Game, you will be given a "Secret" to start a Linked Game in the other title. This is a long, multi-character code.
• The Other Oracle Game: To play a Linked Game, you will need access to the other Oracle title (e.g., if you finished Seasons, you need Ages).

Step-by-Step Setup: Starting with Oracle of Seasons

1. Completing Your First Game (Oracle of Seasons)

Play through Oracle of Seasons as you normally would, defeating Onox and rescuing Din. After the credits roll, you will be prompted to save your game. Do so. This save file will now be marked as "COMPLETED".

2. Obtaining the "Secret"

Once you have a completed save file:

1. Load your completed Oracle of Seasons save file.
2. You will be in the Hero's Cave, where you started the game.
3. Head to the Maku Tree in Horon Village.
4. Speak with the Maku Tree. It will congratulate you and then offer to tell you a "Secret" for a new adventure.
5. Select "Yes" to receive the Secret.
6. Write down this Secret carefully! It is a long string of characters, and any mistake will prevent you from linking your games. Double-check every character.

This Secret is specifically for starting a Linked Game in Oracle of Ages. It will carry over information like your name, animal companion, collected Rings, and certain upgrades.

3. Starting Your Linked Game in Oracle of Ages

Now, switch to your copy of Oracle of Ages:

1. Start a new game in Oracle of Ages.
2. When prompted to enter your name, you will also be given the option to "Enter Secret".
3. Select "Enter Secret" and carefully input the Secret code you wrote down from Oracle of Seasons.
4. If entered correctly, the game will confirm that you are starting a Linked Game from Oracle of Seasons. Your name will be automatically set to the name you used in Seasons, and you'll receive a special message confirming the link.

Congratulations! You are now playing a Linked Game of Oracle of Ages, carrying over elements from your Oracle of Seasons adventure. Expect new dialogue, additional Ring acquisitions, and ultimately, the true final battle against Twinrova and Ganon.

Important Notes on Linked Games

• Secret Types: There are different types of Secrets. The one given by the Maku Tree after completing the game is the "Hero's Secret" for starting a Linked Game. Other Secrets, like those found in Rings or given by characters, are for transferring specific items or progress between linked games, but not for starting the initial link.
• Game Order: You can start with either Oracle of Seasons or Oracle of Ages as your First Game. The experience will differ slightly based on which game you play first, but the overall Linked Game narrative remains consistent.
• Save Management: Always ensure you have enough save slots for both your completed First Game and your new Linked Game.
• Animal Companion: Your animal companion from the First Game (Ricky, Moosh, or Dimitri) will be determined by your actions in Oracle of Seasons and will carry over to your Linked Oracle of Ages game. This affects certain areas and interactions.