One of the reasons TP was so awesome was the insane items it introduced.

First up was the spinner. I had no greater joy in the game that riding on that thing on top of sand to run into a giant skeleton surrounded by its minions, and then grinding it up a giant pillar, jumping between that and the wall. It is one of the best boss fights in Zelda history, or at least would be with a bit more difficulty.

Right after that comes the ball and chain. I can't really explain why that is so cool, buy it's probably going to end up being a Zelda staple.

And, of course, the double clawshot. Boss #7 wouldn't have been nearly as exciting without it.

I'm not saying that items make the game, but they most definitely enhance it.