The wait for The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D has felt a lot longer than it has, in reality, been. Although it was only officially announced for the first time during last November's Nintendo Direct presentation, it needed little time to build up a considerable buzz ahead of its release.
Of course, this hype was undoubtedly pre-fuelled by a great deal of speculation and fan demand over the past couple of years. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD have shown that Nintendo (and also Grezzo in the former's case) can deliver remasters that reinvigorate classic Zelda titles to such an extent that they feel almost as magical as when they originally launched, if not more so. Following the success of Ocarina of Time 3D, and the very vocal expression of demand over the past few years, it only made sense that Nintendo would eventually restore The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask.
Majora's Mask is arguably the best Zelda game to undergo Nintendo and Grezzo's remastering treatment, too. When it originally released on the N64 back in 2000, it had the immensely tough job of following The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, a game that dramatically transformed the gaming landscape at the time. Moreover, Majora's Mask launched during the declining years of the N64's lifespan which — combined with the mandatory use of the N64 Expansion Pak add-on — meant the title was overlooked by many. In fact, it sold less than half the number of copies of its predecessor.
That's a shame, because Majora's Mask is a fantastic game that built upon the successes of Ocarina of Time and, in a number of ways, surpassed it. It's an incredibly unique entry in Nintendo's long-heralded adventure series, albeit one that proved divisive with fans upon its original launch. That's because it goes against the formulaic grain of most 3D Zelda games: there's less of a focus on dungeon-crawling (although there's still more than enough to do in this regard), and instead places more of an emphasis on the wider game world, how it evolves over time, and — most importantly — how Nintendo's famous green-garbed hero can influence and interact with it and the characters he meets.
This enhanced edition for 3DS brings Majora's Mask to a handheld for the first time, along with a new visual sheen and other tweaks and improvements. It's now a much smoother experience than it was on N64 — those that have played the original will recall that it wasn't always clear what you had to do at times. The changes are all mostly positive ones, although there are some missed opportunities and minor niggles here and there. Nevertheless, the brilliance of the original game still shines through, and it's this — more than anything — that makes The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D a fantastic game that you simply must own.
For the uninitiated, Majora's Mask is a direct sequel to Ocarina of Time and features the same Link, albeit in his child form. This Link's second quest begins when he inadvertently crosses the path of the Skull Kid, a forest imp that has been possessed by an ancient mask (which as the game's title suggests, is called Majora's Mask) that's hellbent on destroying the world. Link's first encounter with this sinister new enemy doesn't pan out too well, and he's transformed into a Deku Scrub. To make matters worse, he winds up in a parallel world called Termina, which will be destroyed by a falling moon in just three days.
In terms of both gameplay and story, this is where things get really interesting. You're essentially given 72 in-game hours in which to save both yourself and everyone else before the moon falls. There's just one problem — it's impossible to do all of this in the time given (the three days equate to roughly an hour in real time). As a result, Link must call upon the mystical power of the Ocarina of Time that he obtained in the previous game to repeatedly go back in time to the dawn of the first day. Finding himself in a similar situation to Bill Murray in the 1993 film Groundhog Day, Link is forced to relive the same three days over and over again until he is able to find a way to vanquish Majora's Mask and break the cycle.
It's a novel concept that provides you with not only a different type of gameplay challenge, but also a world unlike any you may have experienced in other Zelda titles. It's worth noting that the time-based system doesn't eliminate the opportunity to explore Termina in a carefree fashion — you can go back in time as many times as you like — but it does demand good time management from you when tackling the main quest.
Going back in time is less of a solution and more of an unwanted necessity. It is not to your benefit (although it does beat getting crushed by the moon), and the game does a pretty effective job of reminding you of this; time travel naturally resets the world to a state before you were able to truly interact with it. As a result, any progress you've made in terms of dungeons or quests is wiped, without exception. Furthermore, any consumable items you have collected during a three-day period — arrows, bombs, fairies, quest items — are all lost; key items somehow survive the journey across time and space, which is just as well or else the concept simply wouldn't work.
Therefore, Majora's Mask 3D demands quite a lot from the player. It's entirely up to you what and how much you choose to do during a single cycle, however, you must also determine what is feasible given the constraints. Three in-game days is more than enough time to complete a temple (and potentially a few other activities), so although you're playing against the clock, it's unlikely you'll find yourself into a position where you run out of time unless it's as a result of your own error. Nevertheless, it's possible to use the ocarina to further alter the effect of time, slowing it down so that you have a bit more of a buffer. You can also jump ahead in time, and — new to this version of the game — you can jump forward to a specific hour of your choosing (as opposed to jumping to the next dawn or sunset). This is especially useful if you already know what you're doing or are repeating a quest and don't want to wait around for the game. It's a feature which, in our eyes, makes Majora's Mask better suited to a handheld system.
This is implemented well as far as gameplay challenge is concerned, but the true magic of such a system is that it creates a world that persistently (and consistently as a result of the time-travel element) evolves over time. The mood, the weather and, most noticeably of all, the non-playable characters (NPCs) all change as time flows. With regard to the latter, many NPCs actually live according to routines — they don't just idly stand or sit there and act as a quick point of information. It creates the illusion of a living, breathing world, albeit one that is relatively rudimentary as a result of the game's 64-bit origins. Nevertheless, it's vastly more interesting than the static worlds we still often come across, even in modern games.
Nowhere is this made more apparent than in Clock Town, a bustling haven that sits at the very centre of Termina. Link's arrival coincides with the town's preparations for its annual celebration, The Carnival of Time, which is due to take place on the fourth day — after the moon has fallen. Over the three days, you witness first-hand the toll that this cataclysmic event is having on most NPCs and their lives. On the first day life carries on as normal, albeit with some wariness of the moon's increasing proximity; by the third day, the streets are mostly empty, the carnival all but abandoned, and many NPCs having traded in their once-cheery dispositions for one of fear, sadness and lost hope.
As you may have already guessed, Majora's Mask 3D is a much darker entry in the Zelda series, quite possibly the darkest; themes of doom and Ragnorok are prevalent throughout the entirety of Termina, which in turn make this an unusually emotional experience. It's hard not to feel some sense of foreboding when you look up at the sky in the game to see the moon closer than it was 10 minutes ago. Equally, you can't help but feel the pressure each time the ground shakes as the moon edges closer on the final day. And despite repeatedly going back in time and playing the same three days over and over, this sinister and uneasy ambiance never dissipates.
This is all greatly enhanced by the impressive visual overhaul Nintendo and Grezzo have implemented in this version. Textures are vastly improved, as are the character models, and the opportunity to play the game in full 3D (something we highly recommend doing on the New Nintendo 3DS with its Super Stable 3D feature) all these years later is a welcome benefit. One of the challenges the original development team faced was ensuring that the game could provide a long draw distance in its larger, more open environments. That remains the case in Majora's Mask 3D, and through Circle Pad Pro compatibility (and C-Stick support on the New 3DS), you can freely move the camera around to take in the sights. That's essentially the only reason why this feature was included (although it's sometimes useful for solving puzzles in the dungeons), and while it doesn't boost your enjoyment of the game's look and feel a great deal, it's nevertheless a nice feature to have. There are few instances where the frame rate drops — usually when there's lots of action on-screen — and while it's certainly noticeable, it doesn't have enough of an impact to negatively affect the gameplay.
In addition to the time-based/time-travel system, the core quest centres around the use of masks. As mentioned earlier, Link is transformed at the start of the game into a non-human state, and this actually becomes a central part of the game. Without going into any spoilers, Link eventually gains the ability to switch between his human and Deku form, as well as turn into a Goron or Zora, through the use of special masks. Each transformation brings its own unique abilities to the table; for example, Goron Link can roll and perform powerful ground pounds; Zora Link is a proficient swimmer and can throw his fins like boomerangs; and Deku Link can fly through the air via the use of special launch flowers in the ground. These masks are a superb feature, as they make Link a much more complex character from a gameplay perspective. Moreover, as you can only use a single mask at any one time, the control input is never convoluted or excessively intricate.
Only by using all of these different forms and abilities can you succeed at saving Termina. The game's dungeons (of which there are four “main" ones) each require the use of these masks in conjunction with items in order to solve puzzles, defeat enemies and progress. Much like Link's transformation masks, dungeons are themed in accordance with their location, so in most instances you'll primarily use one mask per dungeon. Nevertheless, there is some overlap from time to time, meaning that out-of-the-box thinking is occasionally required. The overall dungeon design certainly benefits from the extra features that Link's transformations bring, although you'll still feel an overarching sense of familiarity if you've already experienced another 3D Zelda game.
Majora's Mask 3D incorporates a similar touchscreen menu interface to Ocarina of Time 3D, and this is immensely useful given how often you switch between masks and items. As per the last 3DS outing, you can assign items and masks to the X and Y buttons and two touch buttons on the top- and lower-right corners of the touchscreen. The setup is more than sufficient, but that's not to say that it couldn't be better; having the three main transformation masks assigned to a fixed part of the touch interface would have saved more buttons for items. As a result, you have to stop and swap out items and masks more often than you had to in Ocarina of Time 3D, which does disrupt the flow of gameplay a little.
It's worth noting that one of Link's abilities later in the game requires the use of the ocarina to activate. You have to do this multiple times as part of the final dungeon, which means constantly have to stop, play a song and then repeat the same action multiple times. There was a golden opportunity on the development team's part to streamline this aspect and make it less tedious, and it seems strange that it wasn't considering the other types of improvements have made their way into the experience.
Moving on from those points, if you entered a state of mild panic earlier in this review after reading that there are only four dungeons in the game then do not fret: Majora's Mask is only a short game if you choose it to be. Blitzing your way through all the dungeons (and the sub-dungeons/quests that come with them) will have the credits roll up on-screen in 10-15 hours. However, doing so will not result in the full, proper ending of the game.
That's because Majora's Mask 3D places a heavy emphasis on side quests, which you need to complete in order to see the full conclusion (and get double the playtime out of the game for that matter); it's in this area that the game truly triumphs. As you progress you'll come across a number of NPCs who you'll help or interact with in some way. As we've already said, many NPCs live according to set routines and schedules, which means you may need to approach a character or carry out an action at a specific time in order to help someone. Often, you'll need to do lots of different things at various points throughout the three days just to help one person.
These quests are, in most instances, a lot more substantial than what you'd typically expect from a Zelda game. There's the usual fare of collecting heart pieces and completing mini-games to unlock upgrades for Link as well, but it's through these bigger side quests that you acquire additional masks. These provide further abilities and benefits, and some even help to unlock other masks. It's hard to give an in-depth overview of this without dishing out some pretty big spoilers, which we'd rather avoid so you can experience these side quests for yourself — if you haven't already.
Nevertheless, it's another element that makes Majora's Mask 3D unique; it's not often that a game expects you to invest such a considerable amount of time and effort into the secondary detail; while you certainly don't have to, you're missing out on a wonderful aspect of the game if you don't. That's because this title empowers the player: only you can influence and alter the set paths that NPCs follow. This — combined with the dark, doomsday setting — results in side quests that are nothing short of an emotional rollercoaster.
Termina is home to a wealth of characters that are memorable due to the central roles they play in both the side quest and the main story itself. The world's doomed status, and the way in which this becomes more apparent, moulds these characters over the three days, on top of your own interactions with them. It might be a bit of a stretch to say you place an emotional investment in any of these characters — the game simply isn't advanced enough — but it's hard to not at least take an interest. Moreover, the constant flow of time (and the ability to travel back) means that this title is ultimately a lot more effective at showing you the positive and negative consequences of your actions. Failure can lead to some pretty dark moments, and this enhances the creepy mood even further.
Working out who needs help and how to help them in the original, meanwhile, revolved around the use of an item called the Bombers' Notebook, a log which keeps tracks of people's schedules. While it is a useful guide, it doesn't always make it clear what exactly you need to do. This feature has undergone a slight transformation in Majora's Mask 3D — schedules are still tracked, but events are logged more clearly in a separate window. It's worth noting that you are in no way spoon-fed the solution to the quests, so veterans need not worry about the game being dumbed down. Instead, it just makes it a lot easier to keep track of events that have happened.
Nintendo and Grezzo have made a number of other minor gameplay tweaks, some of which make sense; others are seemingly random. For example, hints are far more abundant this time when it comes to side quests, and the Sheikah Stone from Ocarina of Time 3D — which gives you a visual glimpse of what to do next — also returns. The structure of most of the boss battles has also been changed; there wasn't really anything wrong with these the way they were, but there are some interesting new ideas that both new and returning players will enjoy. The original version could be quite challenging at points, and it's fair to say that this is still the case in Majora's Mask 3D, despite some pretty considerable changes in places.
Conclusion
The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D is a magnificent remastering of one of the finest Legend of Zelda games to date. The visual overhaul, the streamlined features and other improvements make this version an even more enjoyable and accessible experience than the original N64 release. Minor flaws seem insignificant as the superb concoction of timeless game design truly shines: the unique gameplay ideas, the dark and haunting theme and a cleverly crafted game world — aspects that made the original so great — enable this updated version to provide a near flawless experience.
It's strange, perhaps, that a game in which the main premise revolves around repeatedly travelling back in time was so ahead of its time. In its enhanced form, The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D defies its age and manages to stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the very best games on 3DS. Quite simply put, it's a masterpiece that every 3DS owner should play.
Comments 224
To this day I haven't been able to get through this game, just dont like it.
I don't care how much reworking they've put into it, I just can't pay full price for a redone game.
Meh, I can't get excited for a remake.
I shall save my money for actual new games.
I have a feeling I'm going to disagree with that score. But each to their own. I'm just glad to see you enjoyed it! Looking forward to getting the Majoras Mask New 3DS and this game!
Sounds good!
I really hope it sells hugely. I can sort of understand why people might be put off hey how different it is, but that's what makes it so good. Most of the Zelda games before it felt like remakes of the previous game, but this is utterly original. Good sales will send a message to Nintendo that they don't always need to put out cookie cutter games.
wow, a 10? i actually missed this on the 64, i guess i will have to get this one it looks pretty cool. probably not day 1, but sometime soon.
I really want to be hyped as much as my brothers(REEEEEALLY HYPED) for this game, but....
Maybe if I play it again. Feb. 13, HERE WE COME!
Very excited to play this again, really isn't a Zelda game like it imo this had probably the best story on a thought provoking emotional level touching on subjects Nintendo seems to be a bit scared of doing nowdays.
Personally I'd prefer if it sold way lower than expected, just to deter them from bothering with future remakes and instead using those resources towards something more meaningful.
But of course that's never going to happen, because the majority of the population loves wasting money on the same thing multiple times.
Wow! A 10/10! I've never seen that before. After reading this, my hype train was upgraded from tank engine, to express train!
Can't freaking wait to start playing this game!!
Too bad I have absolutely zero interest in this game. I'll be playing Monster Hunter instead.
@DiscoGentleman I know that. Of course it takes nowhere near the amount of time and resources as making a brand new game, but any at all, regardless of how little work there actually was, could be better spent elsewhere in my opinion.
You know, I'm still going to pick it up, but I can't help but wonder if my Gamecube Collector's Edition copy still works. Last time I checked, ages ago, it crashed a couple of times because of how old the disc is.
10 out of 10? Full Moon!
As with OOT3D, I will be skipping this, as I already beat the originals, with this being the only Zelda I 100%ed. There are still a ton of Zeldas I haven't even played, so I need to get on those first.
Pretty cool. I'll get it sometime down the road.
10 out of 10? For a remake? Did they add ANYTHING new in this game? A Master Quest?
All 3 3DS Zelda's hold a 10/10 on NintendoLife!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whoop, whoop! I'm excited for this one, don't have the money for it now...but its a March 1st purchase for sure! (Sorry S.T.E.A.M), while I wish I'd get to play it on a New 3DS Nintendo of America's decision is baffling and as such I'll be stuck on my old XL, but man oh man....this is gonna be great either way.
@BenAV It's for people who didn't own a Nintendo 64 or for people who didn't like the original game. And the remake was done by Grezzo, a studio that doesn't make any games, so it's not a waste of resources.
Whenever I play it I can't get past 'not' playing as Link. Wish I could enjoy it. Kudos to everyone who can. You've waited long enough for this.
@BenAV Especially since it costs as a brand new game, or as 4 Metroid Prime Trilogy if you prefer!
The Wii ports of games like Pikmin 1&2 and DKJB were sold at budget price (€29 if I remember well). Can't understand why they ask € 45 for these...
It definetly deserves 10/10
@Dipper723 For people who didn't have an opportunity to pick it up on the Nintendo 64, GameCube or Wii VC? Sounds like a pretty small audience then. And I would have thought that people that didn't like the original would be the least excited for this game.
It's gonna sell a ton and I'd imagine that a majority of those sales are from people who have played Majora's Mask already.
@andreoni79 Because even at full RRP, it's gonna sell like crazy. Can't blame Nintendo for taking advantage I guess.
@BenAV
Do you ever replay games? Do you ever rewatch movies? Do you ever spend money at a restaurant on the same meal you had in the past?
Ok the last one is kind of a stretch, but the point is, there are plenty of things in life that i want to experience "multiple times". Yes i own the gold cartidge of Majora's Mask for the 64, but i don't own a 64 anymore. I will gladly spend my money on an experience i would love to relive, on my portable 3DS with enhancements that make it more appealing to me than the original.
Ok, I'll get this day one, Monster Hunter can wait
@Big_Gamer @Samurairu @BenAV so much for the demand......
But this is a bit worrisome for me. Like if the items you get in dungeons after clearing a dungeon fade off if you reset time, then how exactly do you beat the game?
I didn't play it on the 64 and never got around to downloading it on the Wii. Looking forward to playing it on the new 3DS however!
10/10 ....... damn...... is this the PERFECT game?
@Artwark
The dungeon items stay
@odin6786 I very rarely replay games or rewatch movies, and if I do they'll be because they're still sitting in my library. Certainly not paying (full RRP especially) for the same experience.
I get the appeal of remakes early in a system's life (like Ocarina 3D or Wind Waker HD) while there's basically nothing else to play in the system as it helps bridge the wait... but at this stage the 3DS has a huge library of quality titles to choose from so it's the last thing I want on the system right now.
@BenAV it's also cheaper to produce a remake. All the money they save/make on this will most likely go into something else. Also a large chunk of 3ds owners had yet to be born when this was originally released.
this is one of my fav zelda games. i'm looking forward to seeing how they've made the game more accessible, and hopefully it'll reach a wider audience.
Didn't expect such a high score, I agree with @BenAV #3. But glad it turned out good, I guess.
@BenAV Raises hand I was born in '97 so no N64 here, I had a Gamecube, but it broke a decade ago, Wii VC I barely used and I did not have (nor will I ever) get the Wii Classic Controller and besides...N64 games have aged horribly. Muddy, dark, foggy, shoddy controls and just plain ugly. I also suppose you didn't notice my username...If Majora 3D wasn't coming to the 3DS I doubt I'd ever play and I am most certainly that are many more people simmilar to my case. Of course there will be those buying this for like 4th or 5th time, but I'd assume that they quite honestly love this game. And to have on a current gen machine...win, win! Still you don't need to get it, but let those who want it play it and enjoy. After all thats what games are for, right?
@TimeGuy
agreed
I'll wait for the HD remaster remake of OoT & MM that will come to a home console eventually. Played these enough for now. Great game though for anyone who hasn't tried it
While I certainly understand how people are upset over the idea of a remake, I'm personally excited for this. I never got a chance to play on the 64, and my Collector's Edition disc often crashes before I get to the first dungeon. So, in reality, I've never gotten to experience this game like I'd like to.
Wasn't there a new Zelda game recently? And aren't we getting a new on this year on Wii U? I think I can handle a remastered game in between
Day 1 baby!(Along with my new metallic red 3DS XL!)
I remember when Code Name: S.T.E.A.M got announced and so many people were whinging on about the announcement not being for Majora's Mask 3D. That's the kind of thing that makes me just wonder what is wrong with people. I know so many people that seem to get more excited for a remake of an old game (which they've already played) than something new and interesting which just seems weird to me but meh, whatever.
I'll just do my best to ignore the MAJORA'S MASK BLAH BLAH BLAH that appears all over my Facebook News Feed for a while longer.
Cant possibly be worse than Ocarina of Time, so I guess I'll have to find out for myself.
If it's a 10/10, I think I need to play this then
but we were all gonna play this anyway
I don't mind paying full price for this remake. Not only is Majora's Mask my favourite game of all time, but having it on a handheld is one of the biggest selling points of the remake for me. I can take it with me to play now, and I don't need to constantly dig out my N64 and the cartridge, both of which are now on their last legs.
And as for complaints about getting excited over something old rather than new games, what makes you think I'm not interested in other, newer games coming out either?
What was the last Zelda game that hasn't gotten a 10/10 on NL? Even ALBW did...
It's surreal to think that this is actually coming out next week. After all the campaigning and the rumours and waiting for an official announcement. It's FINALLY here.
It's not my favourite Zelda (it was when I was younger), but I'll be getting this with the N3DS XL nonetheless.
I'm in for a treat, going to get this and OOT, should kill a few days!
I agree with all the younger or new gamers that this is a good chance for them to play such titles, which are brand new in their eyes, but please understand the older players! Many of us need new games to keep intact our old love for gaming and this is why we prefer new not-so-perfect IP (like Wonderful 101 and the upcoming S.T.E.A.M.) instead of perfect old classics.
(I'll bury the hatchet saying that I'm just replaying now Metroid Prime even if I still have it for my GC but I'm also upset for the lack of a Metroid U)
Surprised to see an early review, but not surprised by the 10/10. I skipped MM back in the N64 days because as a kid in his early teens the time limit and Expansion Pak requirement put me off. Can't wait to try it out this time around!
Now I just need to figure out which Zelda game I should introduce to my young son first .
Is there any kind of hero mode or master quest? I cant justify buying this game if the core game is basically the same. I just played the game not too long ago and it is fresh on the mind, so unless there is a master quest I don't think I'll get this.
I've never played this game. So this is as good of a time as ever to get it.
Can't wait to play this game. I missed it on the N64 & have always wanted to play it.
I could never really get into the original Majora's Mask because I simply couldn't really get into the 3-day time cycle gimmick. I didn't play it on an N64 though, but rather on the Zelda GameCube Collector's Edition disc, which made the game kinda laggy at points, which was also kind of annoying and put me off as well.
So, either way, I always said to myself that IF the game would receive a remake, I would give it another chance. So, here we are. I'm gonna give this game another shot, and hopefully it'll be a better experience for me this time around!
@Artwark
Key items (like dungeon items and some others) don't go away.
All that is lost is anything that you can have more than 1 of, such as bombs or arrows. Their quantities drop to zero each time you go back in time. But you can quickly and easily replenish those by cutting patches of grass in Termina Field.
I was expecting the usual 9/10, but oh well. I guess they liked this more than Smash Bros. I never played this on the N64. I downloaded it a few years ago on the Wii VC (with Club Nintendo coins) and played a little bit of it. I didn't really like it. I'm going to wait until a sale or price drop later this year to get this. I'm short on money right now, and I have a backlog that needs some attention.
@BenAV Hyrule Warriors got a 7 and I think WWHD got a 9.
@Meloetta Oh right, forgot about WWHD... That deserves at least as high a score as OoT3D and MM3D in my opinion but meh, whatever. Don't really count Hyrule Warriors though.
Excellent tagline. And yes, this is one of the best 3D Zeldas. Maybe even one of the best Zeldas, period.
This comes out the same day that I have 12 hours of flying to get back home. Normally I hate travel days, but this time I'm excited to have all those hours with nothing better to do than play a game on 3DS.
Glad to see that score. This is one of my top 10 games ever and certainly my favorite Zelda game.
@BenAV I partially agree with you on the topic of remakes, but I couldn't be more excited for MM3D simply because I used to play it with my dad on the N64 when I was 5-6 and I loved it though I obviously couldn't understand it as I can understand it now. I think this is a great opportunity to play a timeless masterpiece for those who had an experience similar to mine and for those who are younger and never had a chance to play it.
YEEEESSSS, I can't wait for this! Getting this and monster hunter day 1!! :3
I never played it so i'm cautiously excited. Reason being is that OOT was hyped up and while i did put 50 hours into it, i didn't love it. I can fully understand why at the time it was hailed a masterpiece and why it deserved its critical acclaim but i wasn't head over heals for it. I have read MM manga which i enjoyed so hoping i'll enjoy playing the game too.
This has got to be THE most demanded remake of all time, well, short of FFVII perhaps, but it's up there.
Excellent review and I am very excited to play this game. I missed it on the N64, so this is going to be a brand new experience for me. Though even if I had played it, I'd still be excited to get my hands on a remastered edition on 3DS. I simply love playing games in 3D. Such a wonderful little handheld, and on February 13 it's about to get even better!
I bought the Nintendo 64 version on the Wii's shop and couldn't play through it, gonna pass on it, I do like the concept of the game though, just not how its paced, would much rather have Fatal Frame 5 released in Europe,
Great review. I'm really looking forward to re-visiting my favorite Zelda game.
I've been looking forward to this remake!
Oh and you know how in Kellam's solo ending in Fire Emblem Awakening he went on a long journey? Well he must have gone to Termina. See if you can find him...
10/10! This makes me so happy. I can't wait to save Termina again, and on my 3DS to boot!
I never got to play this, so I'm incredibly excited. Purely judging from screenshots, it looks to be just as good or better than the original!
10/10!? Guess this is a day-one-buy for me!
Looks like this game didn't meet with a terrible fate..
@DiscoGentleman You mean having to use a menu like in every Zelda ever, and a segment of a dungeon where you have to play a song four times should equal a 1-point deduction? Those are some pretty weird criteria you've got there. Heck, it's more like they hammered in some ''negative'' aspects to give the review a sense of balance, rather than mentioning them as actual deterrents from the experience.
Then again, a 9/10 would still be a wonderful score.
@BenAV
Did I occur to you that there will be plenty of people who never bought the original Majora's Mask? Especially considering it was such an oddball in the franchise. (Not to mention people too young to have played it)
If it does well it's not necessarily because people who played it before are buying it again.
Never played the original release. Will definitely get this!
"The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask 3D is a magnificent remastering of one of the finest Legend of Zelda games to date."
really? Majora's Mask is one of the finest legend of zelda games to date?
@Peach64 I tend to disagree that the games that came before Majora's Mask were cookie cutter. With the possible exception of the Game Boy entries, each game that came out before that was pretty unique.
I just don't think any of those are cookie-cutter. In fact, most of the console entries have been pretty remarkably different from one another. It's the handheld entries that have had the tendency to be a bit derivative.
As someone who has never experienced the original Majora's Mask, I'm super hyped!
I wish I could get the New 3DS XL bundle. As is, I think I'll be lucky to find the game itself outside of websites here in Brazil.
Either way, I can't wait. One of the last few Zeldas I haven't played yet, and this one has always really intrigued me.
Now if only they rereleased Skyward Sword without motion controls...
@Samurairu
Then don't, Pay $44.99. The original was a $60 game.
February 13th can't come soon enough. I've waited so long to get my hands on my New 3DS, and I finally will be able to next week. Nintendo has really put a dent in my bank account
@andreoni79 We do understand that the "older" gamers want new experiences; we do too. But there are 2 remakes (or in Xenoblade 3D's case, port) coming up on Nintendo consoles, but many more new games: Xenoblade X, Zelda U, Star Fox U, S.T.E.A.M, Splatoon, Monster Hunter 4, to name some.
@Pahvi Faster loading times and better camera controls
@BenAV This game is for people like me also. I had the original and own the VC version but for what ever reason never finished them. If I got to 25% done I would be surprised. I knew this day would come so I waited so I could experience this game The way it was meant to be. Plus I just can't get enough of the 3d That really enhances game experiences for me. I would gladly replay/buy games again to play them in full 3d. Its so immersive.
Knew this was going to be 10/10 lol
10/10? How can this get 10/10 and Smash Wii U 9/10?
Even though I already downloaded the original on my Wii U, I'm still going to get this day one.
@RaphaBoss @abbyhitter
You can't compare two completely different genres' ratings.
While I'll say it is by far my favorite zelda game, multiple playavle characters, super-cool time mechanics, ect. I was really surprised to see anyone give it a 10/10. This game is not for everyone, and while the streamlined mechanics in the remake will help greatly, that time mechanic is still gonna get a few people frustrated. Also, the beginning might be hard for some to stomache as it is not played as by link for the majority. That turned me off on my first playthrough.
@RaphaBoss
Because Smash had a flaw which was Smash Tour
Just played the demo... I can not wait until next week!!!
@19Robb92 The score is subjective sure, but how else do you rate a classic Zelda game? It's a remake so there is only so much room for change. Visual aspects and gameplay were enhanced, I don't see what really could have been added to the game without breaking it's original concept and core design.
Looking forward to finally completing this game, which I never got around to on the N64.
@BenAV
It's not a waste of money if you never played it. Ever thought of that?
Besides, remakes are relatively profitable. Writing, character design music. Much is already done so not that many resources go "to waste."
You don't have to buy it but don't insult people by saying customers are wasting their money
For someone that apparently isn't bothered about MM3D, Ben_AV sure has posted an awful lot. Can't allow your views to be second best, can we?
I don't mind remakes at all, especially as they don't utilise all of a company's resources to do. Sometimes a remake can draw a new audience that has never played a game before in to the point that they become a fan of the series. For example, how many people knew of Scarface before the Al Pacino version? A small number, I'm sure.
Remaking MM is a good thing for Nintendo, as it's always pushed to the side and ignored so as to place more emphasis on OoT, when MM is an incredible game in it's own right. Nintendo survive through the love of their characters and worlds, and in an industry where flashy effects and big set-pieces are the order of the day, they struggle to compete. These remakes are needed because they can induce nostalgia in their long-time fans or old fans that have since moved away from Nintendo, and they can draw in new ones that will become attached to their games, and hopefully stick around for more. Obviously they'll also put effort in to new IPs, but a company needs to make money to do so. Games only make money for so long, and when new consoles replace old ones, you need to find some other way of sustaining that income.
You can't possibly get angry at a company for doing this, because it is such a small thing that needn't even bother you. Making this game does not mean that suddenly Nintendo put every division they have on hold until it's complete. It's incredibly naive to even think that.
As for people asking for this game over new ones, that's just the nature of human beings. When you go to a shop, you don't always try something new. More often than not, you'll go with that same flavour of crisps that you always eat, or that same pack of chocolate Hobnobs you've been gorging yourself on, even though Blue Ribands are on offer. We'll all try something new now and again, but we become comfortable and confident in the familiar. It's hard to spend money on something you don't know.
@Nico07
You don't need change per-se. Additional content would have been enough. That is a very easy way to increase the greatness of an already great game without changing the game itself.
In my opinion they should have included a Master Quest/New Game+ or/and a boss rush mode etc. etc.
All in all, this game is worse value for the money than Ocarina of Time 3D was, which is something of a downgrade to me. A sequel should improve, so a 10/10 seems too high to me.
I might get it when its on sale. Maybe.
I won't be getting this on day 1, I already preordered Monster Hunter 4U (Which costed $5 less for a game that's actually new). But I will buy it sometime later simply because I never played the 64 version.
@BenAV i understand your point but technically, this is a launch title for the N3DS system. It has improved 3D, uses the C stick and uses the improved CPU (my like the original used the expansion pack). Grezzo only does remakes so its a smart plan to have this as a launch title and let other resources be spent on new games like Code Name Steam. Also, you seem like a Xenoblade fan, will you be getting the Wii remaster that is coming to the 3DS or will you pass that up, too?
Skipped this for 64. Didn't know about time travel mess. I'd be willing to give it a shot.
Can anyone tell me on a scale of 1-100 (100 being most difficult) where this would rank?
Wonder if they fiddled with the re-deads to try and make them less creepy again.
Having never played this on N64 originally, or since, I feel like this is the perfect time to try this Zelda classic.
Agreed, it's 10/10. They don't make Zelda games as good as this any more. If you think it's too short just go for the side quests. Majora's Mask is a fantastic game that I can't wait to see in 3D. This and Ocarina of Time 3D are must-have. No excuses. Two of the best games ever made.
The song of double time now skips ahead on a per-hour basis rather than from day to night? Seems my one gripe with the game has now been fixed!
As for the game in general, Majora's Mask has the honor of having the best realized world of any Zelda game.
The way NPCs go about their varied daily routines and actually change dialogue depending on the time you talk to them was mindblowing for the era the game was made in (no doubt made possible with the extra RAM cart). Using this feature as an opportunity to change the focus away from dungeon-raiding and putting it on helping people with their daily problems was pretty much the best thing Nintendo could've done with the game. I really applaud Nintendo for doing something radically different from the extremely well-received OOT when simply building upon that game seemed like the much safer alternative.
@Nintendofan83
The "C-stick" was available well before the New 3DS in the form of the Circle Pad Pro.
The improved 3D is only a hardware upgrade, the games themselves have nothing to do with it.
This game does not make use of the improved CPU. It runs at the same frame-rate as OOT:3D, has the same visual upgrade and less content.
So the game itself doesn't really add any of those features.
Majora's Mask was the first game I ever bought on launch day, all those years ago. Now I'm buying its remake at launch in a week!
I still remember beating this game on the GameCube Zelda collection. This game is truly a classic
@BenAV
What's wrong with people for wanting to play the best game of all time on a contemporary system? The only thing that's wrong here is you, and the issue you have with people enjoying themselves.
This game is a freaking masterpiece! A well deserved 10/10.
A little disappointed but getting this regardless, it's one of my favorite games of all time (definitely my favorite Zelda title). I just wish they added a Master Quest or at least Boss Rush. Ah well.
I never really got into this back in the day. I absolutely loved Ocarina of Time but this game just didn't manage to keep my attention.
So, I'm playing the original, that I got from my Wii.
It's still the most tedious LoZ game I've played. I'm even taking into consideration how much repetition was in the Adventure of Link!
There's a very slim chance I'll get this game, even with the New 3DS.
You're making the wait for this harder
Yeah, it's the same game, but I loved the remaster of Ocarina of Time so it's for sure this will be even better since I have always loved the time system and clock town's atmosphere.
YES! I'm now even more hyped about zelda mm!!!!!
One way or another I'm going to get this game, but not now. I'd rather focus on completing my several Wii U games.
The moon freaks me out, though.
The original is still my favorite game of all time.
Very much looking forward to this.
Wow, way more "meh, still not buying" responses in the comment section than I figured there would be. I, for one, am foaming at the mouth for it. I think a lot of the lackluster response here is stemming from how different and "weird" this particular Zelda is because if this were a remake of Twilight Princess, people would be flipping out.
I already got the original so I won't be buying this day one, but I do plan on buying this later of this/next year. I hope everyone enjoys the remake, I know I had lots of fun with the original.
still have the original but I'll be getting the limited edition with my new 3ds next week 😄
@MegaWatts
I've already said it, but I really hope there's a "New Day" sandbox mode as postgame content, much in the vein of Another Day in the awesome The World Ends With You (and much like that, with an option to return to the three day-loop).
I'm not sure if I'll manage to snag this one as soon as I hope, but surely such a mode would boost this game's priority a lot.
@grumblebuzzz
Don't worry, now that Majora's Mask is coming, Twilight Princess is already on the "please remake this one next" list.
@Big_Gamer
I've gotten through it, and you're probably not missing out on a lot if you weren't enjoying it (especially if you didn't get to the Great Bay Temple...shudder). The atmosphere and side quests are great, but the dungeons and bosses were some of the worst in the series IMO. I don't think the original deserves a 10/10 (even objectively) and a remake getting a 10/10? Break out the Pabst Blue Ribbon. The hipsters have take over Nintendolife!
HYPE LEVELS OFF THE CHARTS
Wow, WAY better score than IGN gave it. I missed the 64 version so I'm excited to play it and see if it lives up to all the hype.
@invictus4000
Well, duh. IT'S IGN.
@BenAV I never got the chance to play through this game and am personally excited to experience it let alone remastered. You can not like the fact that companies remake masterpieces like Wind Waker or Resident Evil 4 but it doesn't mean the general population are "idiots" or whatever you may assume. Perhaps people just like different stuff than you.
No surprise there and that 10 is truly well deserved too! Definitely plan on picking this up when Monster Hunter isn't dominating my game time!
Exactly what I expected from the comments. People who wouldn't buy any remake for any reason whining about how other people spend their own damn money. Congrats, folks.
Great review! I like how all the details were explained and it made me feel less nervous (time mechanic wise) about the game. Glad to see it got a 10.
Was never a big fan of Majora's Mask, it's one of those games that I just couldn't get into. However I am willing to give it a shot again.
@kensredemption It's like they were lying in wait for the review just to have their negativity be the first thing anyone sees in the comment section.
I'm currently playing OoT on the 3DS as I've never finished it way back in the day, and I'll certainly buy MM because I never played it before.
@Samurairu You don't have to, no one is forcing you to do so. Bwahahaha
I was never a fan of this game when I was a kid, but I know that people have been wanting this 3DS remake to happen for a long, long time. Hopefully it won't disappoint those folks - based on this review it doesn't sound like it's going to.
Can you go into more detail on the changes to the bosses? There was a lot of ruckus a little while ago that the difficulty of the bosses got reduced, as well as other changes that lowered the overall difficulty of the enemies. Also, is there any of the Skyward Sword, OoT3D camera zooming in on things to tell you what to do?
I rather have a new game than a remake in 3d, I won't be getting this game. Sorry Nintendo, not buying an old retouched game when your makin a brand new one due later this year
Wow, a 10/10? All of my favorite games on this site are always graded 9/10, and I'm not that big of a fan of Majora's Mask. I just finished the N64 version and I'd give it a 7/10. I hate the 3 day system and long for Ocarina of Time's save system.
This remake will probably be a 8 or 9 outta 10 in my book - my goodness are the graphics sooooo much better.
@BigDaddysPizza At least they added a significant amount of Owl Statues to this version of the game. And you don't have to start the game back at two specific points (Treehouse as Kid Link and Temple of Time as Adult Link), instead you start at the last statue you saved at, and you can fly to each individual statue as well.
10 outta 10... seems like a bit of foreshadowing toward Zelda Wii U
It's one of those marmite subjectively received games
But I'd sure as hell give it a 10. Such ingenuity. And the metaphors, the depth!
Anyone who comments saying that they won't buy this game over again is just [insert noninsulting insult here]. My point is: this is a perfect game. Why wouldn't you play this game again? You make the Nintendolife community look like we don't appreciate their work. I have been begging for this remake to come out for three years! I'm glad that this finally came out so I could play it!
@DarkKirby I can't give specifics as don't want to spoil it for people. I wouldn't say they're easier though - just different (and perhaps more difficult in some instances). They are now better than they were!
you all can this on wii mode for $10. I got to tell you I want this on the go. Owning all those Zeldas on the New 3DS is gonna be good. I'm playing Ocarina right now and getting frustrated by that water level. I got to get my skills back on.
and for like 250 - 300 coins i don't remember
OMG, I'm sorry, I know this game is going to be great. I know this version is going to be awesome. But, I can't help but notice that you have listed the game's problems in various places in this review and yet given it a 10/10. What happened to journalistic integrity? A game with problems (especially that you can identify to the point of writing them out in a review) NEVER deserves a perfect score. Sorry, Martin Watts, but your reviews are now on my hesitant to view list.
I'm prepared for flames and will not reply to any abusive comments to me for my opinion. I am usually open to counter-arguments, but this is a journalistic integrity issue, so I'm not in this circumstance.
tl:dr: I have not played this remake, so I have no personal opinion to stand by, but games with problems (no matter how great they are), are not awarded perfect scores.
I promote people to comment or reply to me, however on the point I have made, I cannot be budged.
"That remains the case in Majora's Mask 3D, and through Circle Pad Pro compatibility"
Finally a game that uses it again! I didn't expect this. And no Amiibo support so far, that also surprises me.
I think a 10 is to much. After all there are only a few tweaks, and almost no new content. I'll buy it though, but I think they should have given it a 8 or 9.
@BenAV I think it's a smart move to do remakes in Nintendo's position. Just look at the main user of the 3ds and most of them never played Ocarina of time or Majoras Mask. I myself never had a chance to play it and really look forward to it now.
@Nintendofan83 I wouldn't call it a launch title for the New 3DS.
It's a standard 3DS game that just happens to be releasing on the same day as the New 3DS in some regions.
And nope, definitely not buying Xenoblade a second time. Amazing game but if I wanna play it again I can already do that.
Drop the price! I love older Nintendo games but Nintendo needs to drop the price for all of their older games. Selling it like it's new is crazy.
@hillyarb Yup, definitely smart for Nintendo. Gonna sell tons so it'll be a quick buck for them.
@TenEighty if a graphics overhaul, 3D, and tweaks to the experience to improve it are not enough to charge more than a budget price, they just won't do remasters. Why should they?
@Artie 'I promote people to comment or reply to me, however on the point I have made, I cannot be budged.'
Lol.
You appear to be under the illusion that your opinion has some sort of value here. Pomposity is not a great way to make a point.
@Artie Well this is what the site's scoring policy says,
"10 - Perfect
Of course no game is ever truly perfect, but a score of ten indicates that it is as close as it can get to perfection in the current climate of games. We don't dish this score out lightly, this is a genre defining game that we absolutely feel you should own."
I for one feel that the score is a bit rose tinted considering the negative aspects mentioned, but it doesn't really matter either way. Most people are going to know whether or not they want this regardless of review scores.
Besides, everybody seems to spend so much time debating review scores. I say just play your games and don't worry about a number.
It seems like a Zelda game is more likely to get tens than other titles just because it's a Zelda game.
There are three 3DS Zelda games now, none deserving of a ten, yet they all got one.
Those of you who don't want/care about a handheld MM have a really simple non-task ahead: don't freaking buy it. See how simple that is?
Those of us who have longed for the experience on a handheld will buy it and play happily, if occassionally frustratingly, away. Everyone is happy. Nice when things work out that way.
@BenAV Four if you count Link's Awakening DX on VC, but that's, of course, a GBC game originally.
I did expect a 10/10. Can't wait mine is pre ordered via Amazon.
Nah, I don't think VC games really count.
Sounds nice, but I actually prefer the N64 graphics of this game, along with OoT. Rather spend money to get a new expierience rather than see an old one with rejuvenated eyes, no matter how good the game is.
@BenAV Then don't give them 10s when you review them
Can the 13th come ANY faster?
InB4 BEN DROWNED.
@BenAV
My save files got corrupted. I'm TOTES getting it again. This time I'll beat it before my game crashes!
@mjc0961 A new game would have taken far longer and used far more resources. The vast majority of the work was already done as it's a remake and they were able to use OoT3D's engine (like the original games). Makes it a quick and easy game to produce for a system that Nintendo is semi-ignoring so they can focus on Wii U development.
@BenAV You lost me at none deserve them! Obviously you aren't a Huge Zelda fan. Even so the reviewers have all been different from each of the Zelda games and that includes Skyward Sword as well. Not too many games
imo are deserving of 10's but Zelda to me is most deserving.
Oh and when you woke up today your email must of been lit up!
@Spoony_Tech Haha probably, not that I check my email.
I think 10/10 for Skyward Sword (and some other Zelda games) is definitely fair enough, just not a remake of an N64 game (at least not without more of an update than it got) or A Link Between Worlds (which is the worst Zelda game I've ever played).
@BenAV So a remake of a game that got 10's from a good deal of sites and publications and improves the graphics and other features is no longer a 10, I don't quite get it. Shouldn't the better version also be deserving of a 10?
@Spoony_Tech Ocarina of Time was revolutionary when it came out and definitely worth every 10/10 it got at the time, and while it's still a really good game, it feels a bit outdated to me and not quite impressive by today's standards even after the improvements they made with the 3DS versions.
Quite possibly the best Zelda game ever if you judge it on what it was when it came out, but definitely not if you compare each Zelda game like they came out at the same time.
All 3 3DS 10s on this site that aren't eShop exclusive are Zelda games.
There was one other game that initially got 10/10 (which happened to be one I could actually agree with) but it got taken down and replaced with an eight.
You must have really high standards for everything
Best game ever. 100/10
@Sonicman The only game that deserves that is Kirby SuperStar, and it only gets 80/10 (8 games in one)
@Samurairu It's not full price, it's $40...
I wish that the "launched during the declining years of the X lifespan" myth would die. Pokemon was released launched during the declining years of the GB's lifespan and it was a success. Donkey Kong Country was launched during the declining years of the SNES's lifespan and it was a success. MM didn't surpassed OoT simply because is not that good and people didn't like it.
And 10/10? yeah, no that's stupid.
Well, I'm looking forward to this. Even though I just got the N64 version on Virtual Console for 250 Coins on Club Nintendo because I either had the majority of the games on offer, wasn't interested in certain ones or just didn't have enough coins.
At any rate, I do like seeing how games can change when remade, so I'll have my copy picked up after work on the 13th, and then I just have to wait for my New 3DS in the mail.
@Artie Personally, I'm not a fan of numerical grading scales for anything. I'd rather have someone give me their honest opinions; talk about the highs and lows of a game, then let me decide whether or not I should make the purchase. That's how I write game reviews for my site.
But, when it comes down to it, reviews are just opinions. They're not a science and not something that should be approached as such. I can recognize the flaws in my favorite games, but I'd still rate them a 10. Take everything with a grain of salt. Read what other people have to say.
@artie okhereswhyyouropinionistotalywrong err that is to say heres where i disagree with your saying bout a game with problems should fail to get a perfect score ... thing is with that logic your basicaly saying 10 should be impossible score. the idea that there is a perfect game ... actually the idea that there is a perfect anything is just silly. theres always going to be flaws theres always going to be problems even with some the greatest games. theres more good than bad (especially the bad in this case is very minor the good in this case is just wonderful) then i think fair to say that the game deserves a 10
@JaxonH
Everything you just said are my thoughts and situation exactly.
but I would love to see an FF6 remake before 7 any day...on the 3DS! Can you imagine...?
@AlexSora89
Touche. haha.
@BenAV Wow...
First, the game is developed by Grezzo, And to my knowledge they don't really make AAA games..
Second, 90% of the game's resources is from Oot3D...
Third,It isn't the same game for thousands of people, cuz they didn't get to play it when it first came out or weren't even born
Remakes gives an opportunity to improve the game,give older players a Nostalgic trip, and Provide newer plays to experience classic games in a definitive way
It's funny, people treat me like I committed an unforgivable sin by never playing Majora's Mask. In my 29 modest years of existence, I never touched it for a second. Well, no time like the present!
@MagicEmperor
31 years, never played it either. That's excommunication right there, for the both of us
@invictus4000
Lol oh yeah, I can imagine. Unfortunately imagination is where it most likely will stay...
Dang, for a game that got a 10, people sure sound grumpy in the comments. Like they're convinced that this game isn't any good, even though they haven't played it (no, the original doesn't count because the original isn't the game being revieweed).
I never played the original, and what I did play of Ocarina of Time for N64 I didn't especially like, but I mostly like WILL buy this game. Partly out of curiosity, but mostly because I trust Nintendolife's reviews, and they sure convinced me that I need to play this game.
@BenAV I didn't mind you expressing your opinion, and then defending that it is in fact an opinion. The problem is when you immediately put down others for having a differing opinion. You can't just be pissed that others don't respect your opinion....and then immediately disrespect someone else's. That screams hypocrisy.
I personally can't wait to play this. The sole reason I didn't get to play the original was the expansion was required.
@Martin Watts the review is very well written, a pleasure to read and almost spoiler-free.
Another awesome Nintendo Life review is Morgan Sleeper's review of Super Mario World:
https://www.nintendolife.com/reviews/wiiu-eshop/super_mario_world_snes
The main reason I think I loved Ocarina of Time 3D when I already had the N64 and GameCube versions is the better frame rate and the 3D effect.
why oh why did I play it again 6 months ago xD oh well that means ill be able to compare.
best Zelda ever.
@Kirby_Fan_DL3
As you know, it's a review about the GAME, not how the remake was made? Got it?
It was a wonderful game back then and I don't think it has changed since that - it is still wonderful game - and I doubt Ninty would be stupid enough to ruin it with remakes.
I agree with the review : BEST ZELDA EVER !!!!!!!!
Only bad thing about this game is that I can't play it!! I dont do handhelds so I'll miss this, really wish this was on the Wii u instead or aswell as. He'll, I'd settle for a vc release......it's the only 3d Zelda I've not played properly!!
@Jazzer94 ok, so what about other m? We all ask for what you just said then we complain when a game like other m doesn't do an amazing job at this. I want Nintendo games that are fun. I am loving replaying the prime series. No need for blockbuster story, just put in a strange planet and spin you around. Zelda games used to be like this. But maybe I've just played too many now. I don't want mario getting all emotional every time he dies.
I can't wait fr the 13th.
I cannot wait for this game to arrive
I've never played this game before and look forward to playing it. (and I hope that there is a Zelda sale on the eShop so I can pick up OoT digitally to replace my physical copy)
There are 3 3DS Zelda games all deserving of 10's, not just because they're Zelda games, but because they're amazing games. While I've replayed Ocarina of Time so many times already, it's still an enjoyable game (in fact I'm currently playing Master Quest 3D) which is a testament to its quality. ALBW was also an amazing experience, and that's coming from someone who didn't like ALTTP one bit. And Majora's Mask is my favourite game of all time, so it's always worthy of a 10 in my book.
Considering development has been on and off since OOT3D released in 2011, and the original game was made in a year, I don't think Nintendo's resources were wasted one bit. We definitely would not have seen a new game come out in place of MM3D next week. If you want to argue about a remake that isn't really necessary, then Xenoblade Chronicles 3D would be a much better bet, along with DKCR3D (or any Wii game really.)
Can't wait for next Sunday to pick up my limited edition 3DS XL and special edition copy of the game! All my dreams have come true at last haha.
Another Zelda game reviewed by NL. Another 10/10.
Yawns
I'll never get why people complain about remakes, though. If you don't want to play it again, then don't play it. A lot of people look forward to playing older classics on newer hardware with some of the rough aspects smoothed out.
I really can't wait to play this game! I love that they made a remake, I have never played this game before. Same with Ocarina of Time and Wind Waker, although they where remakes, they where all new to me, as I had never played them before. I don't see why people complain.
No wonder I don't come to this site often. Good reviews but poor community. I'm a super hardcore nintendo fan, but some of the commenters here make me wish I wasnt.
Anyways, I can't wait to relive this game again.
@Finntendo I know. I, myself, love Majora's Mask, but I don't really want to buy a game I already own unless it has something new. Like I said, a Master Quest would be nice.
Your wallet has been met with a terrible fate, hasn't it?
I NEED THIS BUT COLLEGE BUDGET
I'll have to wait a bit. My wallet is hurting from repairing my car.
As much as I'd like this, I just can't justify buying a game I've already owned on 2 previous consoles and have 100% completed.
@LordMolecule Huh... where was I pissed off about others not respecting my opinion? I honestly don't really care what others think about what I have to say or I wouldn't be saying it at all... I'm well aware of the response I'm gonna get before I make these comments.
Most of the harsher things I've said are mainly to do with people I know personally but I probably didn't really make that clear enough. Oh well, guess that's what happens when you rant about stuff at 4am.
I bought my original 3ds entirely for Cocarina of time 3d, Majoras mask is my favourite zelda so this is such a big deal. This review coming so soon is such a tease
Cocarina of Time? I guess this is Majora's Meth, then
I want this so much, because I've never played Majora's Mask, but it's full price for a remake. I would say that I'd wait until it's on sale, but Nintendo games don't go on sale, so I guess I'll never play this, unless I get it as a present.
Two years of hearing Majora's Mask 3D this and MM3D that. I'm getting this freaking game and it better be the best facking thing on the 3DS.
@Kirby_Fan_DL3
yeah, I understand that. But I don't understand why you ranted about the game review, since it is _the_game_review
I know theere are some that thnk it cannot be good since it's an old game or so...
I really hope there is a Master Quest edition of this game. I played OOoT 3D and enjoyed it just like the original but the Master Quest was so much more challenging which introduced a new element for me that I enjoyed. I'll get this one because of the Fierce Deity Mask but would love something new added.
I've always thought of link as a European swordsman, however the Look of this makes me think samurai link.
@Big_Gamer Okay, I understand your reasons. But listen; this is my favorite game of all time for a big reason.
First time I played it I was extremely stressed and panicked, and I was stumped in the dungeons to the point I didn't care anymore. I highly recommend using a guide and doing a 100% playthrough of this game the first time, then replay the game again but this time only using a guide if you need to.
Each playthrough is using less and less of a guide and I really felt connected to the world slowly. The atmosphere really began to shine and I eventually came to loving it, so give it a shot.
@Jumpman Does that tear happen to be a moon's tear, per chance?
@andreoni79
To be fair porting the GC offerings to the Wii took very little work, and the only change made was to the controls. Everything else was left the same so there was little addition expense involved to produce the games. Far more work had to be done in reproducing Majora's Mask, and they made several tweaks to the overall game. Sure Nintendo could of still reduced the price to something like $29.99, but from a business prospective it would be stupid to do so. If you know millions of users will pay full price for the game, you put it at full price and roll in the money.
@BenAV
lol, its not a waste of resources. Companies make games to make money. Zelda Majora's Mask has the potential to earn Nintendo lots and lots of money. That makes it a very smart use of time and resources for a company trying to make up for lots of losses.
This reviewer is trying WAAAAAY too hard to sell people on this game. It's awesome, a 9 out of 10 in my mind, but in the Zelda universe, it's only a 6. The lack of dungeons and bosses is too much to ignore if you really love your traditional Zelda experience. The masks are great, and the world is dark which makes for a different experience for sure, but overall, the time limit and lack of boss battles severely handicaps the game in my view. I will still own it and play it, but I've always loved this Zelda the least.
@ikki5 Hum, it was just an aditional mode, they can't rate down a game because of that. But maybe the lack of an adventure mode could be reason...
All you ladies out there, this is a perfect Valentine's day
@HandheldGuru97
The 100% 10/10 rating is what leads me to believe that there is a slight bias regarding how Nintendolife rates the Zelda 3Ds games Not that they aren't good, but 3x 10/10? Personally (yes, I'm basing my own opinion of the games on why I kinda disagree with the ratings) I'd give Ocarina 3D a 7/10 as a game. As a remake, 5/10. Really disliked the non-existent effort on that title A Link Between Worlds was pretty awesome, I'd prolly give that a 8.5-9/10. I'm curious as to whether this title will be a 10/10, though not skeptical, as I've heard countless people describe it as THE Zelda title of all time. Awaiting my preorder, and hoping the 10/10 from Nintendolife is true. Playing a masterpiece would truly be an honor.
A very bad game.
The worst Zelda ever.
And Nintendo Life gave a perfect score.
This guy is delusional. Something is fishy here...
Getting this on release day. And then My New 3DS and MH4U come in the mail the next day. Valentine's Day is going to be very busy for me.
@R-Moss Someone's disagreeing with someone else's opinion?This is fishy.Everyone has there opinion about any game just because someone like a game you don't doesn't mean he or she is delusional friendo.
This review reminds me I like reading reviews with out of 10 scores.
Congrats to hardcore mm fans, but I would prefer a game that actually explained the mysteries in mm.
@crzysortagamer I think the mysteries are supposed to be left up to interpretation.
im torn between this and frenchy pigeon any advice guys?
I've never played any Zelda titles besides OOT3D, really wanting to pick this one up.
I've only played a few hours, but I really dislike the time system, because I think it adds tedium. I feel like just the masks could've added enough to the formula and I liked OoT3D, WWHD and SS much better by this point. I think I even liked ALBW better by now. I like MM3D so far, but the time system's put a huge damper on it for me.
I hate to say it, but I just liked OoT3D so much more, and MM3D makes me ache to replay OoT3D more than anything. That game had time cycles which gave some attachment and development to the characters, too. I think it did it much better, since the past/future system and time cycles didn't rush you, so you had time to appreciate everything.
Also, the framerate dips and occasional muddy textures are disappointing. Maybe I'm biased towards it, but I think OoT ran much better and had better graphics. Not to say some of the graphics weren't meh- OoT3D had flat stairs/fences and I remember a couple of iffy textures/models- but they seem more obvious in MM3D.
Best Zelda game ever made. It's hard to explain why. Just consider no other Zelda will ever dare to be such as inventive, creepy, emotional, rewarding. It's a very personal journey for both link and the player, where you will watch the world ends countless times and feel powerless against a very powerful, ancient magic that will destroy a cursed land in the fourth sunrise. You have symbolism, you have obscure themes, your actions have both positive (healing the land, helping people) and negative (letting people fail at their goals) impacts towards the enviroment at that specific cycle, and on top of that, you always have the option to start over and over until you do everything right. Very few games have such depth.
I guess this is why this game deserves a 10/10. I hated it for years because I never could get used to time mechanics. Now I regret about not playing it 15 years ago.
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