by Rockstar GTA6 may be the most anticipated game of 2026, but a remake of arguably the greatest video game of all time is also a big deal. We now know that the brilliance of the Switch 2 The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time will arrive on November 5. The release date was revealed at the end of a lengthy segment of today’s Nintendo Direct focused on Zelda.
We have experienced a new version of Ocarina of time was coming since June, but we didn’t see any gameplay in the initial reveal. Nintendo also chose to announce it without telling us about the scope of the remake or whether it would alter or add to the beloved N64 original (already remade once for the Nintendo 3DS) in any significant way, giving fans all summer to speculate and dream.
The end result? This feels like a faithful remake that doesn’t change the formula of the 1998 game. It’s Ocarina as you know it, with a stunning visual overhaul, much more environmental detail, and modern additions like proper camera controls and a jump button. Voice acting has also been added. But it’s not a Breath of the Wild-style freeform reinvention. You will attack Ocarina of timethe iconic dungeons just like you did in the 90s, collecting important quest items along the way.
In Nintendo’s gameplay reveal, we got a good look at the remake’s version of Kokiri Forest, where Link’s adventure begins, as well as Hyrule Field and Hyrule Castle Town. Nintendo also teased Epona, Link’s faithful horse, which he eventually rides in the game’s adult timeline.
Like many games of its era, Ocarina of time isn’t always clear as to exactly where you should be going, something Nintendo is clearly aware of, as it introduces a new quest log feature to the menu that reminds you of your progress and your next objective. Those who know the game like the back of their hand may never use it, but anyone whose Zelda adventure only began with modern Switch entries might appreciate the help. The combat itself feels identical to the original game, with the Z-targeting system introduced by Nintendo in 1998 present and correct. That said, it looks like it will be easier to quickly swap between items in your stash using a shortcut similar to that found in modern Zelda games.
Nintendo also introduced the titular magical ocarina that Link plays throughout the game, and if you already know the various songs by heart, you can hum them into your Switch 2 rather than using the button prompts. Nintendo has clearly put some thought into welcoming new players, while also giving a nod to the many people who have played Ocarina of time for almost three decades at this point.
As rumored, Nintendo also showed off a new Legend of Zelda-themed Switch 2 console, with custom graphics on the Joy-Con controllers, dock, and the console itself.
Today’s The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Nintendo Direct was one of two exclusive presentations planned this week. A general Nintendo Direct will arrive tomorrow at the same time at 10 a.m. ET, so be sure to check back then for any major announcements or news.
