Every game in The Legend of Zelda series can easily stand out from one another. Nintendo has proven time and again that they are not afraid to experiment with various settings and unique puzzles. From being able to control the wind, go back in time, and even between worlds, no two Zelda games are the same. But of all the main entries in the Zelda series, there has never been anything as unique as Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages.
Released in 2001 on the Game Boy Color, The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages had a unique feature where both games could be linked together. Doing so would unlock a secret dungeon along with other bonuses. But is there a recommended order in which Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages should be played?
Are Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages the Same Game?
Before discussing which game to start with, it is important to know that both Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages are completely different games. In Oracle of Seasons, players use the Rod of Seasons to change the Seasons. Areas that were inaccessible during Winter could easily be reached during any other Season.
In Oracle of Ages, players use the Harp of Ages to go back into the past to get around problems that exist in the present. The fascinating thing about time travel in Oracle of Ages was that parts of the world changed based on actions taken in the past.
Each game had a unique Oracle that players had to rescue from the antagonist (Din from Onox in Oracle of Seasons and Nayru from Veran in Oracle of Ages). While both stories can exist separately from one another, players discover how the stories intertwine when they beat one game and use the password they receive to link it to the other game.
Which Should Be Played First?
The intent behind Oracle of Seasons and Oracle of Ages is that it shouldn't matter which game players begin with. But when deciding, keep in mind that Oracle of Seasons has a stronger focus on combat while Oracle of Ages focuses on mind-bending puzzles.
For players not familiar with 2D Zelda games, it is recommended to do Oracle of Seasons first as it will get them familiar with combat. The puzzles in Oracle of Ages are significantly more difficult than anything encountered in Oracle of Seasons.
Players who started out with the earlier 2D Zelda games may feel more at home by beginning with the more complex puzzles presented by Oracle of Ages over the combat in Oracle of Seasons. Regardless of which game players start with, it is a good idea to play and beat both games as this unlocks a secret boss and the true ending.
The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons and The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Ages are available now on Game Boy Color and Nintendo Switch Online Plus.