This main game presents an adventure centered around a unique three-day time cycle. Players are tasked with preventing a catastrophic event within this repeating timeframe. The gameplay involves exploring a world, interacting with its inhabitants, and solving puzzles, all while managing the limited time available in each cycle.

The core loop requires players to repeatedly reset a three-day period to progress. During these cycles, players can learn melodies on an ocarina to affect the environment and solve challenges. A variety of items and transformations are available, aiding in puzzle-solving and exploration.

The World of Termina and Its Looming Threat

The narrative follows a protagonist who is transformed into a Deku Scrub and separated from his belongings by a Skull Kid wearing a mysterious mask. This mask is linked to an ancient ritual, causing a menacing moon to hover over the land of Termina, threatening to crash. Players have exactly three days within each cycle to find a way to avert this disaster.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The defining feature of this title is its three-day time cycle. Players must strategically manage their time within each cycle to achieve specific objectives. The ocarina is a key instrument, with different melodies unlocking new abilities, altering the environment, or manipulating time. Numerous masks are discoverable, each granting unique powers and transformations essential for navigating the world and solving its puzzles.

What Makes This Game Unique?

The three-day time cycle mechanic forces strategic planning and encourages repeated exploration and experimentation within each loop. The game places a significant emphasis on NPC interaction, with character schedules and routines often being crucial for progression. Additionally, a substantial number of optional quests and mini-games are available, offering deeper engagement with the game's world and lore.

Transformations and Abilities

Players can utilize a variety of masks to transform the protagonist into different forms, including a Deku Scrub, a Goron, and a Zora. Each transformation provides distinct abilities that are integral to overcoming challenges and accessing new areas.

Available Content

This main game does not feature any downloadable content (DLC) or expansions. It has one remake available.

Platform Availability

This game is available on the Nintendo 64, 64DD, Wii, and Wii U.

Release Information

The original release date for this game was April 27, 2000.