the game needs to be top-down view just like TLoZ itself? and you said that the jam isnt about making everything from scratch in X time, but this applies only to the assets or i can start programming it now? :/

Hi! The goal of the jam is to allow you to make a game based on your own interpretation of what makes this title (Link's Awakening) so interesting and fun to play. Feel free to explore and imagine new ways to make your own game based on that. There is no wrong answer: if you think that top down view is important for that, then use it! :)

The main mechanics of the game needs to be implemented during the jam time, but nothing avoids you from coding some useful stuff before it starts. Have fun!