The darkest and most unique Zelda game turns 25, and you can play it on Nintendo Switch Online
You have just 72 hours to save the world from total destruction.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time revolutionized adventure games, earning masterpiece status upon release. Nintendo successfully transitioned the classic Zelda formula into a 3D world, introducing new mechanics that set a benchmark for the genre.
But instead of repeating the formula, Nintendo took a radical approach with its next Nintendo 64 installment. Now celebrating its 25th anniversary, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask remains one of the most unique and beloved entries in the series.
A darker, more mature Zelda experience
Released in 2000, Majora’s Mask reshaped the Zelda formula. While character models and assets were reused from Ocarina of Time, the tone was significantly darker.
After defeating Ganondorf, Link embarks on a new journey in search of Navi. While riding Epona, he is ambushed by two mischievous fairies, leading to an encounter with Skull Kid, who steals the Ocarina of Time and flees to Termina, an alternate realm.
Transformed into Deku Link, he must return to his normal form and reclaim the Ocarina—but there’s a major problem:
- He only has three days before the Moon crashes into Termina, wiping out everything.
Time, masks, and unforgettable side quests
Termina’s inhabitants follow strict routines, meaning missions can only be completed at specific times. Thanks to the Ocarina of Time, Link can manipulate time, slowing it down, reversing it, and more.
Majora’s Mask isn’t just darker—it’s also more mature. The game features some of the most emotional and unforgettable side quests in the series, including:
- Sinister encounters
- Heartwarming moments, like the love story of Kafei and Anju
Masks play a crucial role, allowing Link to transform into:
- Deku Link
- Zora Link
- Goron Link
Each form grants unique abilities, but the Fierce Deity Mask is the most powerful—unlocking it requires collecting 23 of the 24 masks available.
Where to play Majora’s Mask today
Like Ocarina of Time, The Legend of Zelda: Majora’s Mask is available via Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack.
This version is the original Nintendo 64 release, not the 3DS remake.
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