An example for all other games of its genre.
The quintessence of good gameplay, its system is simple yet efficient. You have a choice between your swords, shields, turnics, and boots, plus a very wide array of items to equip for different tasks. Link can equip anything from little sticks to heavy hammers, a little slingshot to a big boy's bow.
They can all be used in a C-button system. While your basic fencing revolves around the sword equipped to your B button, all your items are equipped to the c button. You can use the shield with R button.
The A button is the general action button and the up C button switches you to a camera mode, but the most important button, and the essence of Zelda gameplay, is the Z button. It is the best lock-on system you'll ever use and makes for amazing battles. You can truly fence, and really whip out the techniques while z-targeting.
Aside from the gameplay, Ocarina of Time will catch your attention with a rich storyline and fascinating side quests like sellng happy masks, curing a big oaf's eyes, and generally spreading joy throughout the extensive land of Hyrule.
So in the beginning you're a little Kokiri boy set aside from the rest, and by the end you're the Hero of Time. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is a classic and one game you'll have to play during your lifetime.