Unmasking Link’s Origins: Where is Link From Ocarina of Time?
The iconic hero of Hyrule, Link, is a central figure in the beloved The Legend of Zelda series. While his valiant deeds are well-known, his beginnings, particularly in Ocarina of Time, are a point of intrigue for many fans. So, where exactly is Link from in Ocarina of Time? The answer might surprise you. Link is not originally from Kokiri Forest, despite spending his childhood there. He is actually a Hylian, brought to the forest as a baby during a period of war in Hyrule. This detail adds a layer of depth to his character, explaining why he is the only “Kokiri” without a fairy companion at the beginning of the game. His unique status as an outsider in a seemingly homogenous society sets the stage for his heroic journey.
Link’s Childhood in Kokiri Forest
Link’s early life is marked by a peaceful existence among the Kokiri, a race of forest-dwelling children who never grow old. They are each accompanied by a fairy companion, except for Link. This lack of a fairy initially sets him apart, hinting that he is not one of them. He lives a relatively carefree life, playing with his peers, though he never quite fits in. His destiny changes when the Great Deku Tree charges him with an important task, recognizing his potential despite his outsider status. This is the catalyst for his journey into the larger world of Hyrule.
The Hylian Heritage
The fact that Link is a Hylian, and not a Kokiri, is significant to the lore of The Legend of Zelda. Hylians are the dominant human-like race in Hyrule, known for their pointed ears and connection to the goddess Hylia. This heritage also links him to other significant characters in the series, especially Princess Zelda. Link’s Hylian roots are a crucial part of his identity and explain his eventual destiny as the hero chosen to wield the Master Sword and confront evil.
FAQs: Unpacking Link’s World
1. Is Link in Breath of the Wild the same Link from Ocarina of Time?
No. The Link in Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom is not the same physical Link as the one from Ocarina of Time. While they may share similar characteristics and destinies, they are different incarnations of the hero from different periods in the Legend of Zelda timeline. Tears of the Kingdom is a direct sequel to Breath of the Wild, meaning the Link in those two games is the same, but these events happen much later than Ocarina. The same goes for Ocarina of Time and Majora’s Mask, the same Link continues this timeline.
2. Is Link a Hylian in all Legend of Zelda games?
Yes, Link is typically depicted as a Hylian in the Legend of Zelda series. Although there are different versions of Link across the timeline, they all share the same essential Hylian traits. This continuity connects the various incarnations of Link through different eras of Hyrule’s history.
3. How old is Link in Ocarina of Time?
As Child Link, he is ten years old. When he becomes Adult Link after drawing the Master Sword, he is seventeen years old. This seven year jump in time allows him to take on the tasks necessary to defeat Ganondorf as his adult form.
4. What are the items Child Link can use in Ocarina of Time?
As a child, Link’s arsenal includes the Kokiri Sword, Deku Shield, Magic Beans, Fairy Slingshot, Deku Stick, and Boomerang. These items are essential for his early quest before becoming an adult.
5. Is Link nonbinary?
Longtime Zelda producer, Eiji Aonuma, has stated that he originally intended Link to be a “gender-neutral character” back during the Ocarina of Time development. However, he has confirmed Link is male.
6. Is Link autistic?
Link’s design as a silent protagonist allows players to easily project themselves onto his character. He is designed as an avatar, so Link himself is not specifically designed to be autistic.
7. Why does Link vary in height in different Zelda games?
Link’s height varies due to several reasons: He’s shown at different ages in different games, and different versions of Link exist throughout the series timeline. The constant reincarnation of Link also accounts for differing appearances.
8. Does Link have a sister?
Yes, in The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, Link has a younger sister named Aryll. She is a cheerful child who is fascinated by the sea and her most prized possession is a telescope.
9. What race is Princess Zelda?
Zelda is a princess and a member of the royal family of Hyrule. She has characteristic traits of the Hylians: pointed ears, fair skin, and blonde or brown hair. She typically wears a royal dress and tiara.
10. Are all Hylians white?
While Hylians are typically depicted with fair skin, pale skin, and various colors of hair and eyes, there are some Hylians with darker skin tones in some Zelda titles. They are usually shorter than humans and possess a wide range of body types and builds, much like humans do.
11. Does Link have romantic feelings for Zelda?
While not explicitly confirmed, there are strong hints of a loving and caring relationship between Link and Zelda. Their bond is one of deep support and mutual trust throughout their adventures. Although romantic feelings are heavily hinted at, the two never officially kiss.
12. How does Link become an adult in Ocarina of Time?
Link becomes Adult Link by pulling the Master Sword from the Pedestal of Time. This action causes him to travel seven years into the future. In his adult form, he cannot use certain items from his childhood.
13. How did Link get the Ocarina of Time?
Zelda presents Link with the Ocarina of Time after confronting him in Link’s home timeline. This Ocarina is crucial to his time-traveling journey.
14. Why is Link mute in the Legend of Zelda games?
Link’s muteness is often attributed to a need for strength and silence in the face of immense pressure. With so much at stake, he chooses to bear his burdens quietly, according to the game developers. The silence allows players to better insert themselves into the character of the hero.
15. Why does Link wear a green hat?
Link’s hat is actually a Phrygian cap, often referred to as a Liberty cap, which historically symbolizes freedom and liberty from oppression. Its bent-forward apex is iconic to Link’s appearance. The symbolism associated with this style of hat matches with his fight to protect Hyrule.