How To Get Epona Oot Complete Epona Unlock Guide
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remains a masterclass in game design, introducing players to an expansive Hyrule that truly changed how digital landscapes are traversed. While traveling on foot is sufficient early on, securing Link’s legendary steed provides an essential boost to traversal speed and exploration freedom. Unlocking this reliable companion requires complete cooperation across two entirely different eras in the game's timeline.
Visiting Lon Lon Ranch in the Child Era
Your journey toward securing the horse begins early in the game after your initial meeting with Princess Zelda. Head directly to the centrally located Lon Lon Ranch during the daytime to meet a young girl named Malon standing near the corral. Speak with her multiple times until she introduces you to a shy young filly who immediately runs away upon your approach.
To build a lasting bond with the skittish animal, pull out your Ocarina while standing beside the young farm girl. Malon will gladly teach you a memorable melody that establishes a permanent connection with the creature. Playing this song will cause the young horse to approach you peacefully, setting the foundation for your future reunions.
Returning to the Ranch as an Adult
After pulling the Master Sword and traveling seven years into a grim future, you must return to the familiar ranch grounds. You will quickly discover that a cruel worker named Ingo has taken over the property under the authority of Ganondorf. Approach this new manager during the daytime and pay the required fee of ten rupees to enter the corral for a brief practice riding session.
Once inside the riding area, do not mount the standard horses scattered around the fence line. Instead, play the musical melody you learned during your childhood to call your old companion directly to your side. Mount the swift steed and spend the remaining practice time jumping over the various obstacles placed throughout the field.
Challenging Ingo to High Stakes Races
After familiarizing yourself with the controls, ride directly up to the manager while still sitting on your special horse. Target him and initiate a conversation to accept his high-stakes racing challenge for a wager of fifty rupees. Navigating the circular track effectively requires careful management of your stamina carrots to stay ahead of his aggressive positioning.
Winning the initial race will infuriate the manager, prompting him to instantly demand a sudden rematch with even higher stakes on the line. If you manage to defeat him a second consecutive time, he will begrudgingly concede the horse but attempts to lock you inside the ranch forever. Maintain your maximum speed and head directly toward the outer perimeter walls to leap over the barriers into freedom.