So how do I start modding Zelda?

[Sacklome]

I would hope to be able to create a dungeon, that's my dream-goal but am motivated to mod whatever I need to as a beginner. So where would I get started?

[Arcaith]

I guess the first thing to do would be to get to grips with the way the game works. Each area in the game is comprised of a map and a scene. The scene stores the collision data, map transition actors, Link's starting positions for the map and scene exits among other things. Maps contain actors other than Link and transition actors, like trees, grass, NPCs, items, enemies etc, and also contain the graphics polygon data for a specific section of the scene. In some cases, a scene only has one associated map file as in the case of Hyrule Field. Others, like the Lost Woods, Gerudo Fortress and dungeons contain multiple maps.

 

When it comes to dungeon building, something important to understand is that any given scene has a set number of 'state flags'. These tell the game whether something has been triggered, and are in groups; global, scene global, map global. You can find most of this information in more detail at the z64 wiki. It's a good place to start looking for specific information. It's also a great idea to learn your way around a Hex editor, as there's a good chance you'll need to use one at some point.

[Sacklome]

And what programs do I use to edit all these?

I understand how to use a Hex Editor I have a good one.

And what ocarina of time rom should I use? The standard US rom or the Master Quest Debug Rom?

[Zeth Ryder]

The MQ Debug rom is the best to use as it is easier to make changes to the rom then the 1.0 retail counterpart. Especially for someone just starting out.