Steven Universe creator says Ocarina of Time inspired the show’s character designs

To say that The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is an influential game would be an understatement. Its sphere of influence extends not only across the entire video game spectrum, but also to other forms of media, as evidenced by Rebecca Sugar, creator of Cartoon Network’s “Steven Universe” and “Steven Universe Future.”

In the TikTok posted above, Sugar answers a fan’s question about how the classic N64 title influenced his own series. Sugar explains that one of the big inspirations was how the game’s Gerudo characters (Ganondorf, Nabooru, Twinrova, etc.) incorporated gemstones into their character designs, something that Steven Universe would pick up on and use.

Sugar also mentions how this design aesthetic influenced their work on Cartoon Network’s “Adventure Time,” as the character Flame Princess was also designed with this gem-encrusted aesthetic in mind.

This goes to show that a game’s influence isn’t limited to its gameplay. A game’s art, music, story, and characters can inspire people from all walks of life and fields without ever needing to pick up a controller. While Ocarina of Time remains relevant for its gameplay innovations, it can’t be overstated how much the land of Hyrule itself inspires in fans all these years later.