Time loop

A time loop is a narrative device in which characters repeatedly experience a span of time for multiple times, usually with other characters unaware of each repetition and the setting being reset to its initial state at the start of each cycle. Knowledge and/or items gained in previous loops are thus utilized in future loops in order to progress further in the game.

In many cases, the cause of this time loop is a central mystery to the game's plot. Time loops are mostly entered unexpectedly and unintentionally, as opposed to other time travel conceits where characters have agency in their ability to travel through time. Notable games revolving around time loops include The Legend of Zelda: Majora's Mask [ゼルダの伝説ムジュラの仮面] and Outer Wilds.