The Ocarina of Time remake brings one of Nintendo’s most beloved adventures to a new generation. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time launches exclusively on Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, 2026, with completely overhauled visuals, orchestral music, voice acting, expanded cutscenes, and updated controls.
Originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998, Ocarina of Time follows Link on a quest to protect Hyrule from Ganondorf. The new version retains the central adventure while introducing modernized presentation and additional features designed to make exploring the kingdom more immersive.
Whether you’re a longtime Zelda fan or preparing to experience this classic for the first time, here’s everything you need to know about the Ocarina of Time remake, including its release date, price, gameplay changes, and Nintendo Switch 2 features.
When Does the Ocarina of Time Remake Release?
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time launches on November 5, 2026, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo announced the game as part of the celebrations for the franchise’s 40th anniversary. The remake is available in digital and physical editions in the United States, with availability and purchasing options varying by region.
Unlike the original Nintendo 64 release, the new version has been rebuilt for Nintendo’s current-generation console, with updated graphics, sound, and gameplay controls.
How Much Does the Ocarina of Time Remake Cost?
The Ocarina of Time remake has different prices depending on the country and edition. The digital version costs $59.99 in the United States, while other markets use their own regional pricing.
Here is a breakdown of the announced prices:
| Region | Digital version | Physical version |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $59.99 | $69.99 |
| Canada | C$84.99 | Check local retailers |
| United Kingdom | £49.99 | £58.99 |
| Europe | €59.99 | Varies by retailer |
| Australia | A$94.95 | A$109.95 |
| New Zealand | NZ$104.95 | Check local retailers |
| Japan | ¥7,980 | |
| Brazil | R$ 329,00 | R$ 429,90 |
The price may vary by retailer and region. Check your local Nintendo eShop or authorized retailers for the latest purchasing options.
Is Ocarina of Time Coming to the Original Nintendo Switch?
No. The 2026 remake is exclusive to Nintendo Switch 2 and is not listed for the original Nintendo Switch.
Players with the first-generation Switch can access the original Nintendo 64 version through the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack subscription. However, that is a separate release and does not include the remake’s updated visuals, voice acting, or new features.
What’s New in the Ocarina of Time Remake?
Nintendo has introduced several changes to bring Link’s classic adventure up to date. Here are the main confirmed improvements.
Completely Overhauled Graphics
The remake features substantially updated visuals, with redesigned environments, characters, and material textures. Hyrule has been rebuilt for Nintendo Switch 2, giving familiar locations a new look while retaining the world and story that made the original so memorable.
The game also includes remodeled locations with additional visual details, encouraging players to look around as they explore.
Voice Acting and Expanded Cutscenes
Characters now have voiced dialogue during cinematic scenes, and Nintendo has confirmed expanded conversations with characters throughout the adventure.
These additions provide more opportunities to learn about Hyrule, its inhabitants, and the lore surrounding Link’s journey.
Orchestral Music and Refreshed Sound
The soundtrack features symphonic orchestral arrangements, giving the game’s music a new presentation. Sound effects have also been refreshed as part of the remake.
Music remains central to the adventure, particularly when Link uses his ocarina to activate magical effects and progress through the story.
Improved Movement and Camera Controls
The remake introduces updated movement options, including new commands for jumping and running. Camera control has also been improved, allowing players to adjust their view with the right stick.
Ranged weapons, including the Fairy Bow and Hookshot, can be aimed using button controls or motion controls. Players can customize this option in the settings.
Nintendo has also highlighted faster loading times and smoother performance compared with the original game.
The Day-and-Night Cycle
The day-and-night cycle now continues regardless of where Link is, including in towns. This change makes the passage of time more consistent as players travel through Hyrule.
New Lore and Enemy Features
The remake adds new opportunities to discover details about the world and its characters. Expanded dialogue provides additional context, while the Hall of Fallen Foes lets players revisit defeated enemies and learn more about them.
The game also includes a feature that tracks story progress and helps players check their next objective during the adventure.
How Does the Ocarina Work in the Remake?
The ocarina remains one of the game’s defining mechanics. Link learns songs that produce magical effects, such as opening new paths and changing the time of day.
In the Nintendo Switch 2 version, players can use traditional button controls to play the Fairy Ocarina and the Ocarina of Time. Alternatively, they can try humming melodies or playing their own instruments into the console’s microphone.
This optional feature offers a different way to interact with the game’s music while preserving the role of ocarina songs in exploration and puzzle-solving.
Does Ocarina of Time Support amiibo?
Yes. Compatible figures from The Legend of Zelda amiibo series can provide in-game extras.
Nintendo has also announced new Young Link and Young Zelda amiibo figures scheduled for 2027. Scanning these figures unlocks in-game masks inspired by the series’ retro graphical style.
The amiibo figures are sold separately, and players should check the official product information for release dates and compatibility details.
What Is ZELDA NOTES?
ZELDA NOTES is a game-specific service available through the Nintendo Switch App on compatible smart devices. It offers additional features to accompany the adventure, including progress tracking, location-finding challenges based on images, and the ability to play an ocarina through a smart device.
A Nintendo Account, a compatible smart device, and a persistent internet connection are required. Certain features may also require a Nintendo Switch Online membership, sold separately, and availability can vary by region.
Ocarina of Time Remake: Release Date, Platforms, and Other Details
Here’s a quick overview of the most important information:
- Full title: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time
- Release date: November 5, 2026
- Platform: Nintendo Switch 2
- Developer and publisher: Nintendo
- U.S. price: $59.99
- Brazilian price: R$329.90
- Estimated download size: 27 GB
- Players: One player
- Languages: Includes American English, British English, Brazilian Portuguese, and several other languages
- Game formats: Digital and physical editions are listed in the United States
- amiibo support: Yes
- Compatible play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld modes
Specifications, pricing, and availability may vary by region.
Is the Ocarina of Time Remake Worth Playing?
For longtime fans, the remake offers an opportunity to revisit Link’s journey through Hyrule with updated visuals, orchestral music, voice acting, and modern controls. The additional dialogue and lore features also give returning players new details to discover.
For newcomers, it provides a modern entry point into one of the most influential adventures in Nintendo’s history. Its combination of exploration, dungeon puzzles, combat, and music-based mechanics remains central to the experience.
The biggest question is how these changes affect the original adventure’s pacing and atmosphere. With its November launch approaching, the remake is one of the key releases to watch for Nintendo Switch 2 owners and Zelda fans alike.