Nintendo is celebrating Link’s 40th birthday with a dedicated The Legend of Zelda-centred 40th Anniversary Direct Showcase, which was headlined by the first gameplay look at the upcoming Ocarina of Time remake for the Switch 2.
The remake received a lengthy 15-minute trailer, which finally revealed its gameplay and new art style, which is adopting a more semi-realistic look this time around, a first for the franchise. While the game still features the familiar gameplay experience fans know, the remake offers new features alongside a graphical overhaul, including a dedicated jump button, the ability to sprint after a roll to get around quicker, and a new swimming and diving mechanic. The game is also fully voiced this time around, which is something fans might need to get used to.
As the game will be a Nintendo Switch 2 exclusive, it will also make use of the system’s unique features. Players will now be able to hum tunes into the console’s microphone during the game’s ocarina mini-games instead of pressing buttons, with the trailer even showcasing franchise producer Eiji Aonuma playing the notes on an actual ocarina, which are then translated in-game. Like past Zelda titles on the Switch 2, the remake will also support Zelda Notes on the Switch app, which will likely offer features like additional guidance and the ability to play audio logs on a separate device.
To celebrate the launch of the Ocarina of Time remake on 5 November, Nintendo has also announced the launch of a new Zelda-themed console, which will arrive on 29 October. The limited edition console will see its Joy-Cons decked out in a green tint, with the console dock featuring a golden triangular pattern inspired by the Triforce. The Switch 2 Pro Controller and carry case will also be receiving a similarly styled edition.
Apart from the remake, Nintendo also unveiled some Zelda-themed news beyond gaming, such as The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Triforce Medley, a worldwide orchestral tour that will begin in Japan on 23 January 2027 before heading to other parts of the world. The upcoming movie adaptation, which stars Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Link and Bo Bragason as Princess Zelda, has also received its official title, The Legend of Zelda, without any subtitle, alongside its logo. Finally, LEGO will also be launching a Zelda-themed 1,750-piece Link & Epona set, which will arrive in Spring 2027, with other collectibles announced, including an electronic Master Sword from Hasbro and a playable Ocarina from Nintendo itself.
Kevin is a reformed PC Master Race gamer with a penchant for franchise “duds” like Darksiders III and Dead Space 3. He has made it his life-long mission to play every single major game release – lest his wallet dies trying.
