The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake will launch on 5 November, Nintendo confirmed during its 40th Anniversary Direct. The presentation also revealed a special edition Nintendo Switch 2 console and an official ocarina that fans will be able to buy later in 2026.
The remake takes centre stage, making full use of the Switch 2’s graphics power to bring a modern look to the almost 30-year-old title, which first appeared on the Nintendo 64. Visuals are not the only improvement. Controlling Link is now easier thanks to support for both analogue sticks, which did not exist in 1998, and a dedicated jump button replaces the automatic jumping that triggered near ledges.
A notable new feature involves the in-game ocarina, a key item that lets Link perform magical feats when the correct tune is played. Players can now hum the melody, with the game recognising the sound through the Switch 2’s microphone and completing the input to activate the song. Only the opening sequence in Kokiri Forest and the first section of Hyrule Castle Town were shown during the broadcast.
Visual and Accessibility Upgrades
All the characters have received a visual overhaul as well as voices, with new fully voiced cutscenes. Link, however, remains silent. First-time players who become lost or confused can turn to Zelda Notes, a new feature added to the Nintendo Switch app that tracks progress, offers hints on in-game locations and provides additional information.
Ahead of the remake, fans can pick up the Nintendo Switch 2: The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition system, released on 29 October. The console and dock feature a unique design inspired by the game. A Switch 2 Pro Controller and a matching carrying case, each with their own themed look, will be sold separately alongside the console. Nintendo also plans an exclusive Switch 2 Pro Controller with its own display stand, available only at the Nintendo Store in New York City and San Francisco.
An Official Ocarina for Fans
To complete the anniversary line-up, Nintendo will release an official ocarina identical to the one Link plays throughout the game. Two versions will be available: a standard acoustic model and an electric one made by Hori that can play songs at the press of a button. Eiji Aonuma, producer of the Zelda series, demonstrated how the instrument sounds during the show.
Nintendo did not confirm a price or a firm release date for the ocarinas, stating only that they will be available later in the year. The Ocarina of Time remake arrives on 5 November, one week after the special edition Switch 2 console launches on 29 October.
