Remembering The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 25 Years On
Twenty-five years ago, a golden cartridge containing hopes, dreams, and occasionally choppy framerates graced our offices, marking the arrival of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Today, the iconic game celebrates its 25th anniversary, undoubtedly prompting a sense of nostalgia and perhaps making some feel a bit older.
I vividly recall posting my review of Nintendo’s inaugural 3D Zelda action-adventure on IGN just two days after it hit US stores on November 25, 1998. A special delivery had brought us a boxed, final copy, distinguished by its shiny, golden cartridge, a few days earlier.
I spent several delirious nights playing the game for review in our offices at Imagine Media, our former parent company, situated south of San Francisco in Brisbane, California.
Remembering The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 25 Years On
Remembering The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 25 Years On
Before embarking on the Ocarina of Time adventure, A Link to the Past held the title of my favorite game, amplifying my anticipation for the upcoming experience. I distinctly remember the excitement in our office, but 25 years is a significant span, prompting me to seek the help of my esteemed colleagues from the past, the remnants of IGN64.

Engaging my former colleagues, I gathered their perspectives on the distant memories associated with playing this revered gaming history icon ahead of everyone else.
Craig Harris reminisced about the initial review code on the gold cart in our Brisbane offices, recalling a moment when we transitioned from cramped quarters to a more spacious area. Peer Schneider shared insights into the review process, highlighting the intense 17-hour gaming sessions and our attempts to play early with an import copy before being pleasantly surprised by Nintendo’s timely release of the final US retail version just before launch.
Remembering The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 25 Years On
Remembering The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 25 Years On
He also recounted the peculiar presence of Nintendo representatives, complete with a locked suitcase carrying the “Lockbox N64,” which physically tethered the cartridge to the console during gameplay. These recollections offer a glimpse into the excitement and dedication surrounding the monumental release of Ocarina of Time 25 years ago.
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