As the release of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D draws near, many gamers might be wondering what, if any, of the classic moments from the game might have been altered for the 3D update. Considered by many to be the greatest game of all time, Ocarina of Time has so many memorable moments it’s hard to imagine Nintendo wanted to tinker with any of them.

Thankfully, one aspect of the game that is confirmed (via video) to be preserved in all of its Zelda-y goodness is the opening sequence to the game. Featuring Link and Epona riding across the countryside of Hyrule, the graphically improved opening sequence is sure to strike a chord with gamers who have held a special place for the game over the years. It might not showcase any of the gameplay of Ocarina of Time 3D, but it's an important element the game needed to get right.

Though the opening sequence will have the added flare of 3D to make it that much more appealing, seeing Link and Epona with improved textures is enough to reinvigorate interest in what should have been a 3DS launch title. Sure, Nintendo could have gone the extra mile and completely updated the opening, but messing with something as sacred as Ocarina of Time is a risky proposition.

Lack of 3D aside, the look of the opening (as generated by the 3DS) feels both familiar and polished at the same time. First screenshots for the game made it seem like Nintendo — in conjunction with developer Grezzo — was making huge leaps to graphically improve an N64-generation title, but, unfortunately, seeing the game in motion will do more to remind gamers how much they want an HD Zelda.

Check out the updated opening sequence for yourself:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LzMMxIbkcmk

At first, the release of Ocarina of Time on the 3DS appeared to be gamers first real chance at getting their 2011 Zelda fix — especially considering the amount of delays that have plagued Skyward Sword for the Wii. However, now with a new console on the horizon, Nintendo has a chance to hit gamers with a three-hit-combo of Zelda that could take the property over the top.

By first releasing this Ocarina of Time 3D update, followed closely (we hope) by the unveiling of a Zelda title for Nintendo's new console at E3, and then capping it off with Skyward Sword’s release, gamers will be overwhelmed with so much Zelda they will hardly be able to contain themselves. However, for this grand plan to work out, Nintendo is going to need to really knock it out of the park with Ocarina of Time 3D, and, if the nostalgia-filled opening sequence is any indication, they are on the right track.

What do you think of the updated look of the Ocarina of Time opening sequence? What other memorable moments from the game are you looking forward to experiencing in 3D?

Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time 3D releases June 19, 2011 for the Nintendo 3DS.

Source: YouTube