Originally released for the Game Boy Color in 2001 as one-half of the Legend of Zelda franchise’s Oracle duo, The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons is the adventure that is more focused on the battles between the two. Years after its virtual console release on the 3DS, it is now playable through Nintendo Switch Online.

Ideally, this premium game should be played after its counterpart, Oracle of Ages, but The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons can be enjoyed by any 2D RPG-loving adrenaline junkie out there on its own. In it, the beloved protagonist Link is transported by the Triforce to the world of Holodrum.

Restore the order of the seasons

The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons employs the classic overhead Zelda gameplay mechanic long-time fans know well and love. In this one, Link meets a band of traveling dancers, led by a girl named Din, in Holodrum. The self-touted ‘General of Darkness’ Onox suddenly appears and kidnaps Din, who gets revealed to be the Oracle of Seasons. Onox also makes the Temple of Seasons disappear, throwing Holodrum’s cycle of seasons into disarray.

To put things back into order, Link must solve eight dungeons to find the Essences of Season, and he pulls this off with the help of the Rod of Seasons, a tool that can change the seasons at will. There are three animal assistants that will join this journey, too, namely Ricky the kangaroo, Dimitri the dodongo, and Moosh the flying bear, who can help overcome obstacles like large puddles, tall obstacles, and more.

There is a handy ring system, too, wherein Link can appraise any collected rings and equip them afterward to gain their embedded buffs. As you progress further into the game, you will be able to wear more rings and enjoy their benefits simultaneously. While overall fun, however, this installment to the franchise falls quite flat in terms of storytelling — which is why it is recommended to play Oracle of Ages before or after.

Can be played alone or with Oracle of Ages

In conclusion, The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons is another adventurous title that both old and new Zelda fans can enjoy. While it is recommended to be played before or after its half Oracle of Ages, players can choose not to do so. On its own, it provides plenty of action, lots of dungeons to clear, cute animal companions that make the journey more bearable, and a handy ring system.