Released in the US on May 14th, 2001, Oracle of Ages and Seasons were two Zelda games developed simultaneously through the joint effort of Nintendo and Capcom. Each game focused on a different central mechanic, theme, and emphasis on action vs puzzle solving. In Oracle of Ages, Link travels through Labrynna to restore order to the present and past using the Harp of Ages. In Oracle of Seasons, Link travels through Holodrum to rescue the captured Din and restore balance to the seasons using the Rod of Seasons. Both games use the central tools in such creative and memorable ways, such as exploring dungeons in the past, only to travel into the future and see how your actions have directly impacted the layout of the dungeon. Or changing the seasons to winter to create mounds of snow as pathways, and then back to summer to climb summer vines. The worlds in these games are impeccably designed for clever exploration and use of these abilities.
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| Spring brings flowers; Summer brings vines; Fall brings toadstools and leaves; Winter brings frozen water, snow piles, and dead trees. Just a few examples of how varying seasons can create dynamic ways to traverse the world in Oracle of Seasons. |
So why the release of two great Zelda games at the same time? Original development of these games showed ambitions to create a trilogy of Zelda games referred to as the "Triforce Series". However, due to system limitations and the complexity of linking these games together, this was scaled down to two games. With this, players could obtain passwords from one game to be carried over to the other. This allows players to play these two titles in whatever they prefer, and then carry over certain aspects into the next game. This can include items, hearts, characters, and more. There are two particularly neat implementations of this mechanic, the first being a couple you meet in town. Throughout the first game you play, you help the couple with decisions on how to best raise their baby son, and watch him grow into his childhood. Carrying this data over into the second game, you then can help shape the son's future into adulthood. The direct involvement and growth you are able to witness in this long transformation make for a compelling and memorable experience.
The second implementation in which this password mechanic truly shines is in how it links the stories and offers a final extra challenge. Each game feels unique and satisfying in of itself with new and interesting bosses, General Onox and Sorceress Veran. However, when playing both games, it is revealed that both of these plots were derived from Twinrova to resurrect their fallen lord, Ganon. As such, players are then treated to a classic final bout, but not at the expense of making these great games feel cliche or tired.
Oracle of Ages and Seasons borrows a lot from its Gameboy predecessor Link's Awakening, but then builds upon it to make a Zelda adventure that is both unique and familiar. If you've never played these small gems in the Zelda series, you're in for a double-treat. Good things can sometimes come from unique collaborations such as these, and it seems Nintendo is becoming more willing to share its property and work with more developers in recent history. Let's hope it brings us more creative experiences such as these.
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