Nintendo has officially confirmed the release date for its long-awaited remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The updated version of the Nintendo 64 classic will launch exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, 2026.
The announcement came alongside a new trailer and the first extended look at gameplay, giving fans a closer look at just how extensively Nintendo has rebuilt the iconic adventure.
Originally released in 1998, Ocarina of Time is widely regarded as one of the most important games in Nintendo’s history. Rather than simply giving the classic a fresh coat of paint, however, this new version appears to be making substantial changes to the game’s presentation, controls, and overall experience.
Ocarina of Time Has Been Completely Reworked
Nintendo says the remake features a complete visual overhaul, with updated textures, smoother performance, faster loading times, refreshed sound design, and a new symphonic orchestral soundtrack.
Movement and controls have also been reworked. Link can now jump and run more freely using newly added button commands, while the camera can be controlled directly with the right stick.
The environments have received considerable attention as well. Locations throughout Hyrule have been remodeled with additional detail, while the camera can now be moved more freely to give players a better view of their surroundings.
One particularly interesting change is the game’s day and night cycle. Time will now continue to pass regardless of where Link is, including while exploring towns.
Characters Will Have More to Say
The remake is also expanding the game’s narrative presentation.
Characters Link encounters throughout his journey will now be fully voiced during expanded cutscenes, with Nintendo promising considerably more dialogue than was present in the original game.
Another new feature is called Threads of Time, which will allow players to keep track of their progress throughout the adventure and see their current objective. Nintendo says a large tapestry will gradually fill in as Link progresses through the story.
It’s a relatively simple addition, but one that could make keeping track of the game’s sprawling adventure considerably easier for newcomers.
You’ll Actually Be Able to Hum Ocarina Songs
Nintendo is also doing something rather unusual with the remake’s ocarina mechanics.
Players will be able to hum one of the songs Link has learned, with the Nintendo Switch 2’s built-in microphone recognizing the tune and having Link perform it on his ocarina.
The feature will also work with new physical ocarinas planned for release later this year, including a playable version and an electric model from HORI.
Nintendo isn’t stopping there, either. New Young Link and Young Zelda amiibo figures are planned for 2027, with both figures capable of unlocking special masks featuring a retro-inspired graphical style.
Zelda Notes Adds More Features
The remake will also receive additional functionality through ZELDA NOTES, a game-specific section of the Nintendo Switch App.
Players will be able to view a chronological record of their progress, including statistics such as the number of enemies defeated.
There’s also a new Gossip Quest feature that uses hint images to help players locate specific areas in the game. Completing these challenges earns points that can be used toward music scores for the ocarina.
The app will even include its own virtual ocarina, allowing players to experiment with songs using their smart device. Music scores can be created and shared through QR codes.
For longtime fans, there’s also an Ocarina of Time quiz featuring more than 2,000 questions. The quiz can be attempted once per day, with additional attempts available by spending rupees earned in the game.
Zelda Switch 2 Hardware Is Also Coming
The remake isn’t the only Zelda release arriving around the anniversary.
Nintendo will launch a special Nintendo Switch 2 The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition system on October 29, one week before the game itself releases.
The anniversary lineup will also include special editions of the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, with versions available both with and without a display stand, alongside a Nintendo Switch 2 carrying case with screen protector. Each item features a Triforce-inspired design.
With Ocarina of Time arriving just days after the anniversary hardware, Nintendo is clearly positioning the remake as one of the major celebrations of the franchise’s 40th anniversary.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time launches on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, 2026.
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