Nintendo used its Zelda 40th anniversary Direct today to show the first real gameplay of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, confirming a November 5 launch exclusively on Switch 2. Eiji Aonuma walked through the opening hours in Kokiri Forest, presenting the project as a faithful interpretation built with modern tools rather than a loose retelling.
Visuals have been completely rebuilt from the ground up, with every surface texture restored and models with significantly more detail than the 1998 original or subsequent 3DS version. Young Link’s tunic now appears to be made of forest materials, the Great Deku Tree appears larger and more intimidating, and classic animations such as the chest-opening scene continue to function while wearing the new design.
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
In place of the previous automatic leap at the edge of a platform, players now have a dedicated jump button. A dash command allows Link to cover Hyrule Field faster, swimming and diving do longer require the iron-boot workaround, and the right stick may now be used to change the camera freely. Item switching is accomplished with a single button or a rapid shoulder-button scroll, and slingshot aiming can be done with either the stick or motion controls. Loading screens between important areas are intentionally left in place to preserve the original pacing.
Day and night now advance everywhere, including within towns that were once frozen in time. Hyrule Castle Town comprises previously blocked-off streets and store minigames. Cutscenes feature complete voice acting and more lines of conversation, whereas ordinary pleasantries remain lighter. A new Threads of Time menu records story progress, displays the next goal, and gradually fills a vast tapestry as the adventure progresses.
Ocarina tunes can be hummed, whistled, or sung into the Switch 2 microphone; if Link understands the music, he will play it on screen. Nintendo and Hori will sell real playable ocarinas that the game will recognize. Digital copies are $60, while physical copies are $70. The initial print run includes special packaging and a limited textured-foil cover. A Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 system, accompanying Pro Controller, and carrying case will arrive on October 29, one week earlier. The features include two new amiibo and a Zelda Notes companion app for screenshots, extra quests, and custom soundtracks.
The remake retains the original structure, Navi, left-handed Link, and many recognizable sound effects, but adds orchestral compositions and faster movement. Pre-orders began immediately following the Direct. For everyone who grew up with the N64 cartridge, the November date now appears on the calendar, along with a detailed summary of what changed and what Nintendo chose to leave alone.
