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Zelda: Ocarina of Time Is Guaranteed a GOTY Nomination. It Will Never Win
The article argues that Nintendo’s new version of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* is highly likely to receive a Game of the Year nomination, but unlikely to win. Its strong reviews, striking visual overhaul and status as a major release make it difficult for awards jurors to overlook.
The remake remains largely faithful to the 1998 game while making some modernising changes and bold artistic choices. Its Metacritic score is 96, the article says, ahead of other current contenders; it also points to jurors’ connection to the original and the remake’s prominence alongside *Grand Theft Auto 6*. The piece predicts further nominations, including for action-adventure, music and art direction, while arguing that remakes rarely win the top award.
In short
- The remake is tipped for a Game of the Year nomination.
- Its Metacritic score of 96 leads this year’s contenders.
- The article predicts nominations, but no overall win.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The remake’s 96 Metacritic score, visual overhaul and cultural importance make it a strong Game of the Year contender, and jurors may value how it preserves a landmark game while making it compelling to a new audience. Its prominence alongside major releases could also help it secure a nomination and make a win plausible if voters see its craft and influence as exceptional.
The case against
A nomination would recognise the remake’s quality and significance without implying it is the year’s most deserving winner. Jurors may favour games that offer more original design or a greater sense of novelty, and remakes face the challenge of being judged against both their source material and new releases; strong reviews alone cannot establish how voters will decide.
Explained simply
The Legend of Zelda is a Nintendo adventure series, and Ocarina of Time first appeared in 1998. Its new version keeps much of the original game while updating its visuals and making some changes for modern players.
Game of the Year awards recognise games released during a particular year, with jurors choosing nominees and a winner. Ocarina of Time’s strong reviews and prominence put it among the releases likely to attract attention, alongside major titles such as Grand Theft Auto 6.
Awards also have separate categories, including music and art direction. Remakes can earn nominations, though the article notes that they have rarely won the top award.