Nintendo has set a November 5, 2026 release date for the Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The date came with the first gameplay, shown in a Nintendo Direct presentation for the Zelda series' 40th anniversary on September 8.
Nintendo announced the remake in June with a teaser that showed no gameplay. The original launched on Nintendo 64 in 1998, and a 3DS remake followed in 2011. This one is exclusive to Switch 2 and arrives two weeks before Grand Theft Auto VI.
What changes in the remake
Nintendo says the remake has completely overhauled visuals, fully voiced characters in expanded cutscenes and symphonic orchestral music. Series producer Eiji Aonuma demonstrated some of the first sections of the game, including the inside of the Deku Tree.
Nintendo keeps the loading screens between areas to preserve the feel of the original, though Nintendo's recap says load times are faster. Zelda Universe reports that lock-on combat stays too. Link now has a jump button and can dash, the right stick moves the camera, and items can be swapped quickly.
A new feature called Threads of Time shows your story progress and your next objective at any point, with a tapestry that fills in as you go. Zelda Notes, Nintendo's companion feature in the Nintendo Switch app, also supports the game, with a daily quiz and a virtual ocarina on a smart device's touchscreen.
The ocarina itself works through the built-in microphone of the Switch 2. Hum a song Link has learned and he plays it in the game. Nintendo also plans a playable ocarina and an electric one from HORI for later this year, and the game responds to both. I'm curious how forgiving the humming will be for players who can't hold a tune.
Price, preorders and extras
Preorders are open. The digital version costs $59.99 (59.99€), and the physical version costs $69.99. The first print run of the physical version comes with textured foil cover art while supplies last.
On October 29, Nintendo releases a Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 with a matching Pro Controller and carrying case. The console does not include the game. Young Link and Young Zelda amiibo figures follow in 2027 and unlock in-game masks with a retro look.
A general Nintendo Direct follows on September 9 at 10:00 AM ET.
