Reviews// The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D

In fact, controlling Link with the 3DS is a joy. I've extolled the merits of the circle pad in the past, and this just highlights it even further. The second screen has been used to enhance gameplay, as opposed to adding needless stylus play, and the button layout is not dissimilar from the N64 original, with the 'Z' targeting button now with the L button.

The only exception is the needless gyroscope control used during first person mode or aiming. This could almost dismantle all the excellent work Nintendo have put in, but being aware of mass internet flaming they've included an option to remove it.

Adding to the old
Apart from the mass visual overhaul, there's not that much that has been added to the 3DS version of the greatest Zelda game of all time. There doesn't really need to be. Adding too much could detract from an iconic game, but that's not to say a few extras here and there wouldn't have gone amiss.

I'm hesitant to give too much away, as I don't want to spoil the discoveries you'd appreciate making yourself. There are a few new Easter Eggs along with the old ones, and even the old ones have been changed slightly so it still feels as though you are discovering them.

The most exciting addition is the 'Future Stone'. Sitting just outside Link's crib is a time stone that seems normal at first, but when your adventure begins to unfold its mouth glows red. If you ever get stuck during the game you can crawl inside and see a vision of the future, giving a hint on a puzzle that might be giving you trouble at that time.

Although it's there to simply aid newcomers to gaming who are regularly helped along these days, it's worth popping in there from time to time. It does just enough to plant a new idea in your head as opposed to completely ruining any puzzle that might otherwise be achievable if thought through. It's a lovely touch and even if you know the game like the back of your hand, it's worth popping in just to see the effects.

Adventurous Charm
There's a reason why so many describe Zelda: Ocarina of Time as the greatest in the series. For me, it's the fact that it represents Shigeru Myamoto's image of what gaming should be in its entirety. It's like a portal into his soul and will charm the pants off you.

The opening half of the game is just so damn sweet. Playing as child Link puts you in the shoes of a young lad who is out to prove to the world around him that he's an adult. We've all been there. At a young age, there's something about trying to be older than you are in order to impress, be it a girl, older brother or even your parents. We usually do so by drinking beer in a park, or smoking a cigarette without being sick. Link does it by entering dungeons and slaying beasts.

He is an innocent character, curious about what's out there in the world, and attempts to be as fearless as possible - but there's a subtle hint of hesitation about him. One that he tries to keep hidden from everyone around him but that slips through when his health is low or drops from a larger distance than intended. It's the yelps, jumps and gasps that expose this and builds the character.