So, you've thwarted Queen Gohma, you've got your first Ocarina, and now you're ready to head out into Hyrule Field. It's a strange moment, leaving Kokiri Forest behind, especially when it looks this good. Don't worry, I'm working on a guide on what else you can do in Kokiri Forest before you head out if you're really wanting to stick around a bit longer which will be here shortly, and you can always come back to Kokiri Forest at a later date if you're missing the mysterious twilight of Link's forest home.
Once you leave Kokiri Forest and say goodbye to Saria, you'll head out into a tree-lined passageway that leads into Hyrule Field. And yes, thius is where you first speak to Kaeporra Gaeborra, otherwise known as the annoying owl that keeps sticking his beak in at every verse end. The guy likes to talk, but you can just drink tea and press buttons while he gives his speech. He does tell you about the landscape, but nobody has time for that - there's running to be done!
In previous iterations of Ocarina of Time, you had to roll everywhere to feel like you were getting there faster. Now, Nintendo have added a run function which allows you to hold down the roll button and cover distances much faster than previously. I'm not sure how this is going to work when it comes to using the bunny mask later in the game - perhaps the postman is much faster than he used to be!
When you get into Hyrule Field, there's going to be tonnes of stuff to look at, but your main goal is going to be heading to Hyrule Castle Town to meet with Princess Zelda. From your position at Kaeporra Gaeborra's tree, it's essentially in a North-North-West position from your location on the map. If you head forward from your location, you'll see a road that you can essentially follow all the way to Castle Town.
There are a couple of things you can do before you get there if you want to explore, however:
- Kakariko Village is to the right of Hyrule Castle Town. You'll see the owl perching in a big tree, and you can head there, coming off the road and heading over a small bridge that crosses the river. You'll need to go here after Hyrule Castle Town, and the Owl will tell you to go to see Zelda first, but there's no harm in exploring it now if you want to prolong meeting the Princess for a little bit.
- Lon Lon Ranch is where you first meet Epona. You won't be able to ride her yet asd she's too small, but you'll forge a bond that transcends time (hint hint). You can't do anything here yet until you've woken up the owner near Hyrule Castle.
When you travel to Hyrule Castle Town, you won't be able to get in if it's nighttime. The drawbridge goes up to stop the Stalchilds, the weird skeleton guys, from getting in and causing havoc. Also watch out for the Peahats, the strange bladed pineapple things, if you do go exploring, because you'll have a hard time defeating them at this point.
Another thing I'll say is don't buy a Hylian shield from Hyrule Castle Town straight away - it's mega expensive, and you'll shortly be getting some discount. Hold outa little while longer!
Hyrule Castle is a vibrant and exciting place with lots to explore, far more than the old game. Spend some time here before heading up to see Princess Zelda, and definitely check out the majesty of the Temple of Time!
