Haha, the first time I played this game was last year, when I downloaded the ROM off the internet XD
But as I've subsequently managed to buy a copy of the game for the N64, I'm not doing anything illegal now :P
But, as others have said, what isn't there to love in this game?
The story is interesting and engrossing, playing up the traditional Hero/Villain/Princess dynamic but remaking it at the same time. The in-game world is immersive, with a history and mythology spanning centuries. Despite graphics that are nowhere near today’s standards, the scenery is still beautiful, and locations and objects are full of little details that make it all seem so much more alive.
Characters in the game, even minor characters with no relevance to the plot, are well thought out, each with their own unique personality. The dungeons and challenges are also well thought out. The puzzles in particular are a strong point: too easy and they would seem pointless, too hard and they would lead to nothing but frustration. They straddle the line between the two, so when you finally figure something out, you feel like you've done something really fantastic.
Everything in this game is enthralling, from the epic boss battles, to the side-quests for hearts, rupees and a horse :D
I could go on for days, but I think the fact that it's listed as
one of the greatest games of all time speaks for itself ;)