(Game Boy Color)

The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages (Game Boy Color)

Game Review

The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages Review

USA USA Version

Posted by Patrick Elliot

A song for the ages

Ever since The Legend of Zelda released some 25 years ago, Nintendo has played the franchise relatively close to its chest. Series creator Shigeru Miyamoto has had a hand in almost every release to date, and before the new millennium, Nintendo EAD handled development of each and every Zelda title. But when Nintendo wanted an all-new Zelda trilogy for the ageing Game Boy Color, it reached out to Flagship, a Capcom development team specialising in creating game scenarios and story development. It was the first time a third-party developer was entrusted with the official Zelda canon.

Hence Oracle of Ages and Oracle of Seasons were born. Originally conceived as a trilogy, each title was to be based on a single piece of the triforce: Power, Courage and Wisdom. The games would each have a unique world and story, but could also be played together — in any order — via a code system, revealing an over-arching storyline and extra boss battles. Implementing such a code system across three games proved too cumbersome, so a time-strapped Nintendo had Flagship scrap the Courage game, transforming the remaining two into the Oracle games.

Based off the Wisdom element of the Triforce, Oracle of Ages remains one of the most puzzle-heavy games in the series. That's because like Ocarina of Time before it, the story jumps between two timelines but, unlike Ocarina, Ages’ time mechanic is central to gameplay, requiring the player to constantly shift between past and present to solve puzzles and advance the game. This makes the simple act of navigating the world all the more entertaining, as you'll be manipulating time in order to change landscapes and alter the present day.

The power to do so comes from the Harp of Ages, an instrument Link receives when Nayru — the Oracle of Ages herself — leaves it behind after becoming possessed by the evil sorceress Veran. In order to stop Veran from using Nayru’s body to travel into the past and alter history, Link must use the harp to flip-flop between eras, enabling him to traverse areas that might have become impassable due to the ravages of time, but are easily overcome in the past.

Like any good Zelda game, Link’s powers are limited at first, allowing him to only activate portals to the past by playing the Tune of Echos. This means in order to navigate across dual timelines, the player must seek out more portals, which are frequently hidden. This gives the player a solid reason to partake in one of the most beloved Zelda pastimes — cutting grass. Beside netting the player hearts and rupees, mowing the lawn also periodically reveals portals, a necessity for advancing the game. Portals become increasingly harder to find, giving the game a strong emphasis on exploration. Thankfully, Oracle of Ages' zany characters and diverse world make that a very good thing.

The cast of characters that drive the plot are lovably finespun. Staples like Zoras and Gorons offer the expected levels of levity, but it's the characters unique to Oracle of Ages' story that really shine through. One of the best has to be Nayru's overly-idealistic bodyguard Ralph, who regardless of being painfully ineffectual is still seen frequently rushing into the next area ahead of Link. Then there's Queen Ambi, the leader of Labrynna's past whom Veran seeks to control, seen transforming from a forlorn romantic into a deranged tyrant. Finally, there's the pesky Maple, daughter of Syrup who both steals items from Link and doles out some of the best treasures in the game. Dutiful adventurers will discover even more connections between characters, as new items open up areas that can fill in even more of the story.

While mainstay items like the boomerang and Master Sword return, the game can actually be completed without the player ever even obtaining them. That's because aside from aqcuiring items from dungeouns and treasure chests, you also can complete games and trade with NPCs to gain new equipment. There are all-new items for Link to use, like the ricocheting Seed Shooter, which can angle off walls to solve puzzles and activate distant switches. But if Link hopes to receive and upgrade each weapon in the game, he needs to explore the game's side-stories across both eras.

On top of that, the game implements a ring system that can augment Link’s power, adding an extra level of strategy to the game. Rings can increase attack power when life is low, boost your defence and even transform Link into a Like-Like. Some will actually decrease your powers though, so make sure to get your rings “appraised” by the game’s quirky, snake-training ring collector Vasu. While many rings can be obtained from treasure chests, the rare ones are gained by playing games and planting Gasha seeds (which grow treasure-bearing trees in the future), giving you even more incentive to explore Labrynna.

Aside from items, the Oracle games also introduce all-new mounts for Link to ride. Instead of Epona, there’s Ricky the boxing Kangaroo, Dimitri the swimming Dodongo and best of all the lovable Moosh, a big blue bear with comically tiny wings that grant him limited bursts of flight. These mounted segments are confined to just a few scenarios — some of which can be missed on a single playthough — but they serve both as comic relief and a way for the game to shoehorn in additional puzzles. One instance has you rescuing Moosh from the Lost Woods, then using him to traverse a previously impassable area to gather up some lazy carpenters, enabling them to finish a bridge and get you access to the next area.

Graphically, the game certainly wasn’t blazing any trails in 2001; borrowing from the engine used in Link's Awakening DX, Oracle of Ages shares many visual similarities with the GBC remake. Enemy sprites are reused and the colour spectrum is rather limited, but nevertheless the game still delivers an engrossing world thanks to the careful design of Labrynna and the powerful dichotomy between time eras, with past Labrynna's dreary upheaval clashing with the colourful and cheerful present day.

Zelda games are well-known for their boss battles, and Oracle of Ages doesn't disappoint. The bosses here are varied, intricate and — for the most part — fantastic. The first few may be a breeze, but later in the game you'll have to use a slew of items and equipment to win. The limited interface can make this endeavour a bit muddled, especially when you need to use multiple items in succession, as frequently pausing to remap your buttons really breaks up the action. Regardless, the strategies required to defeat later bosses may have you stumped for a bit, but figuring out the formula and overpowering your opponents feels as rewarding as ever.

Once you've finished the game, you're treated to some pixel cut scenes and teased to play the other game in the pair. The story of Ages is all wound up and comes to a satisfying end, but it's hinted that Ganon may play a part in what transpired, and to stop him you'll have to play Seasons as well, linking your next game with the code you receive at the end. If you beat Oracle of Seasons first, the same would happen vice-versa.

Conclusion

Oracle of Ages somehow feels both new and familiar at the same time. While many beloved Zelda tropes remain, the game still takes plenty of chances, many of which really pay off. Link may have already done some time-travelling in Ocarina of Time, but in Oracle of Ages it becomes the central aspect of gameplay, making way for a puzzle-heavy adventure nuanced by colourful characters, interesting items and a plot much unlike those previously seen in the franchise. Link's Awakening may have given birth to its game engine, but Ages feel like a game all its own. While it may not be the most traditional Zelda game out there, that's certainly not a reason to avoid it: if anything, it's a reason to seek it out.

User Comments (56)

Metal_Sonic

#1

Metal_Sonic said:

I remember playing oracle of seasons on my gbc. I loved that game! How much different is ages than seasons?

Joshers744

#2

Joshers744 said:

Now, if they will just release them for download on the 3DS. I have them on GBC somewhere but I'm not sure if I could find them, plus if I can play with the light of the 3DS, it's worth it.

RVN

#3

RVN said:

they're plain different, i can tell it's worth playing both even if you have played the other one

emayer

#4

emayer said:

Seeing this review made me think for a second that the game had been released for the VC. Oh well.

For me, both Ages and Seasons are 10's. They both use the "classic" Zelda structure, but manage to inject so many unique and fresh ideas at the same time. Those two are without a doubt my favorite 2D games in the series.

Grackler

#6

Grackler said:

@1 Other than the graphics and a few cross over points, it's a totally different world, dungeons and plot, not just the time/season mechanics. There basically two different games that just complement each other (and link up for extra boss beat-downs!)

ShadJV

#8

ShadJV said:

They're as different as night and day. This isn't Zelda's answer to the twin Pokemon games of every generation. Seasons focused a little more on combat, Ages on puzzles... completely different world, characters, items, and even mechanics. I highly recommend you play the other if you've only played one. Best part: you can carry over your completed game from one into the other and experience a bunch of new content.

Pleaseeee Nintendo, gives us these on eShop, I'll love you forever if you do!!!

ejamer

#9

ejamer said:

Recently traded away my Oracle of Ages/Seasons games because I just couldn't see myself playing them again. My only hardware that supports GBC was the Game Boy Player for GameCube, and that's only pulled out for special occasions.

It would be great if Nintendo released them via 3DS Virtual Console. The connectivity would make buying both a high priority, and they really are interesting high-points in the Zelda series.

Geonjaha

#10

Geonjaha said:

Was so angry when I saw this wasnt an announcement for the 3DS VC. :( It's a very good GBC game - in the top 10. But none of the GBC Zelda games win the best GBC game of all time position imo. :3

PatrickElliot

#12

PatrickElliot said:

@mjforthewin Ages' puzzles are more challenging, while Seasons is more action-oriented, and while the stories and world of each are independent of the other, they do have an over-arching connection (as @ShadJV & @Grackler noted). They're an interesting part of the Zelda series, and really deserve to be played together as a pair.

bezerker99

#15

bezerker99 said:

Two words: GORON DANCE!

(I've never played Seasons....but I have Ages and it can get rather challenging :sweat: )

CanisWolfred

#16

CanisWolfred said:

My Third least favorite Zelda game. Its focus on mind-bending puzzles infuriated me to no end last I played.

Rawk_Hawk

#17

Rawk_Hawk said:

Honestly I love Zelda games but this one just never clicked with me. I got frustrated with it quickly.

WWammy

#18

WWammy said:

I'm playing this right now its one difficult game I played it directly after Seasons and it's wayyy harder. I'm finally on the last boss Veran is a hard boss :). These games feel fresh While Seasons felt like the traditional formula Ages felt like it took Zelda's ideas to another level it feels like the freshest Zelda and I have played them all. It felt much newer than Twilight Princess other than the graphics. Probably one of the best Zelda games am glad I played it :)

Erica_Hartmann

#19

Erica_Hartmann said:

This review appearing made me think the game showed up on the VC...crud. xD I never did play these two.
I wonder which game I'll start out with first...maybe Seasons.

mieu-fire

#20

mieu-fire said:

when i had the game boy color all i ust to play was zelda orcale of ages and pokemon silver also dragon warrior monsters and robopon sun

Azikira

#21

Azikira said:

Aw man, when I saw the review I was under the impression that it was announced for the Virtual Console.

Strongo9

#23

Strongo9 said:

Did anybody else feel trolled by this? I thought the Oracle games were finally releasing for the 3DS VC when I saw this review.

:(

Peacock

#25

Peacock said:

@Morpheel
The scoring policy goes by a 10-star system, just to let you know. 9 is 1 away from 10, so it's pretty high up on the scoring system.

Henmii

#26

Henmii said:

Forget the timetravel systems from Oot of Majora's mask, since this Zelda probably has the best system! Because you travel 400 years back and forth whole landmasses shift around, wich is awesome! And even one of the characters dies, wich is also pretty rare in a Zelda title!

shadowkaby

#27

shadowkaby said:

Both these games were awesome!!! I loved that you could connect and trade things between them using the gbc link cable! If you did, you were also treated to extra dungeons and the truth of the story, and a Ganon boss fight! If they do release it for vc, I hope they modify that connection for internet/wireless communication so you can get the full scope of the game!

Hejiru

#28

Hejiru said:

I saw the image and immediately thought it had been released on VC. Now I'm disappointed. :(

pariah164

#29

pariah164 said:

This needs to be released on 3DS VC. Ages and Seasons are my favorite Zelda games OF ALL TIME.

Picola

#30

Picola said:

these games HAVE to be released on vc. has anyone heard anything in tnis regard? considering links awakening is the 2nd best selling game to download on 3ds, you know it makes commercial sense. i want these so bad!

JayceJa

#31

JayceJa said:

this is THE best zelda game of all time, the rest be damned in comparison

Omenapoika

#32

Omenapoika said:

Totally love the oracles <3
I had both on gameboy and I was so happy they were two completely different games instead of the red/blue thing with pokemon.

@30.Picola
Not releasing these on the 3DS vc would be like not releasing OoT and MM on Wii's vc, so don't worry :)

Aqueous

#33

Aqueous said:

Link's Awakening was developed by Flagship first wasn't it? Which makes these the second one's developed by a third party

I was hoping it was vc in Europe when I saw the review, which would mean I would have them soon, but I guess not.

ryanthehedgehog

#34

ryanthehedgehog said:

Look's almost identical to Link's Awakening, doesn't it? I've only played this game a couple times, never got the chance to finish it. I will sometime, though. Great Zelda title!

Alexneon

#35

Alexneon said:

This bring some good memories...Ohh the good old days where graphic whor%@& didnt exists and no reviews.

Bloodysaber

#36

Bloodysaber said:

Back when I had ages/seasons for GBC, I played them both so much I killed Ganon and Twinrova on both carts.

RevolverLink

#37

RevolverLink said:

I hold the Oracle series in very high esteem (I slightly favor Seasons, but they'd both make my top five individually), but aside from maybe the Four Swords games, they seem to be the least talked about entries in the entire series. I partly blame that on their release date (just a month before the GBA's launch in NA), so I'm hoping that their inevitable release on the 3DS Virtual Console will give gamers a chance to rediscover just how great those two little games were.

@33. Aqueous

Flagship borrowed many assets from Link's Awakening for Oracle of Ages and Oracles of Seasons, but LA was developed by Nintendo EAD. Flagship made the Oracle series and The Minish Cap.

Terave

#38

Terave said:

Oh what do I love this game so much! This one and Seasons are definitely my favorite handheld Zeldas!

Luffymcduck

#41

Luffymcduck said:

This one is really special for me since it was the first Zelda game I played and completed. My english wasn´t that good ten years ago (it´s not my native language) so I had some problems to understand what to do next. Still, I finished this game without any Gamefaqs´(I didn´t know about that stuff back then) and I was really proud of myself when I saw the credits rolling after playing it for 3 months. This just might be my favourite 2D Zelda with Minish Cap.

Tethers

#42

Tethers said:

LA gets a 10 and OoA "only" a 9? Can't really understand this, for me 'Oracle of Ages' is way better than 'Link's Awakening', especially in terms of the gameplay.

Tash

#46

Tash said:

I have only played 1 zelda game and it was the four sword on my 3ds, but I do want to try other games in the zelda series.

RevolverLink

#47

RevolverLink said:

@shinesprite The CDi games never happened. I thought we had all agreed on this!

@Tash If you're interested in giving the series a try, I'd recommend starting with either A Link to the Past or Ocarina of Time. Personally, neither of them are my absolute favorite entries in the series (then again, I tend to prefer the "weirder" games like Majora's Mask and Link's Awakening), but they are the quintessential Zelda games. ALttP, in particular, laid down the basic structure and gameplay for pretty much every subsequent entry in the series.

The_Ink_Pit_Ox

#49

The_Ink_Pit_Ox said:

I already have Link's Awakening DX on cartridge. Hoping to download an Oracle game to have a 3DS equivalent.

Red_Kinetic

#50

Red_Kinetic said:

This game, when it comes out on the 3DS eShop, needs to have the GBA enhancements that were available when played on a GBA.

Geonjaha

#51

Geonjaha said:

@RevolverLink - Dont just point him to the most popular ones. Those games havent aged as well as others. They were the best at their time but there are Zelda games arguably better than both (Arguably to anyone who isnt blinded by nostalgia - which these days isnt very many).

br1an

#52

br1an said:

For some reason, the portable Zeldas have always been my favorite. Especially, Minish Cap.

Please, don't tell anyone.

SirQuincealot

#53

SirQuincealot said:

never knew it was concieved as a trilogy, maybe its about time that nintendo finished the trilogy?

Bucho

#56

Bucho said:

ughh my friend is japanese and imported her 3DS, i got so jealous she can buy this, my 3DS is sad :c

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