Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct Reveals Ocarina of Time Switch 2 Remake and More
Nintendo is celebrating 40 years of The Legend of Zelda with one of the biggest anniversary pushes the series has ever seen.
During today’s Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct, Nintendo revealed a full lineup of games, hardware, accessories, live events, collectibles, museum experiences, app features, and movie details starting this year and continuing into 2027.
The headline announcement is a full remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2, launching on November 5. Nintendo also revealed a special Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition system, new Pro Controllers, ocarina accessories, a new amiibo, Zelda Notes features, a worldwide concert series, LEGO and Hasbro collaborations, and new information about the live-action Legend of Zelda movie.
For longtime fans, this was not just a celebration. It was a full roadmap for the next year of Zelda.
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Comes to Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5
The biggest announcement from the presentation was the first gameplay reveal for The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on Nintendo Switch 2.
Series producer Eiji Aonuma showed the classic 1998 adventure rebuilt for Nintendo’s newest hardware, with the remake launching on November 5.
This is not a simple remaster. Nintendo says Ocarina of Time has been completely overhauled with new visuals, fully voiced cutscenes, expanded character dialogue, symphonic orchestral music, faster load times, reworked movement, improved camera controls, and more.
For many players, Ocarina of Time is one of the most important games ever made. Bringing it back in this form is a major moment for the franchise, especially during the series’ 40th anniversary year.
A Full Visual and Performance Overhaul
Nintendo described the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Ocarina of Time as a rebuilt version of Link’s milestone adventure.
The remake includes:
- Completely overhauled visuals
- Improved textures across materials and environments
- Smoother performance
- Faster load times
- Refreshed sound
- Symphonic orchestral music
- Snappier action and movement
This version aims to modernize Ocarina of Time while preserving the heart of the original adventure.
New Movement and Camera Controls
One of the biggest gameplay upgrades is improved control.
Players will now be able to jump and run freely using newly added button commands. Camera control has also been improved with the right stick, making exploration feel more modern.
That should make a major difference for players returning to Ocarina of Time after years of newer 3D Zelda games like Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. The original game helped define 3D adventure design, but this remake is clearly being updated for today’s expectations.
Fully Voiced Cutscenes and Expanded Dialogue
Nintendo also confirmed that characters Link meets throughout the adventure will be fully voiced during expanded cutscenes.
Characters will also have more to say, giving Hyrule a more immersive feel. Combined with fully remodeled locations and a camera, players can move more freely; this version of Ocarina of Time is being positioned as a richer and more cinematic version of the original.
Another major world detail is that the day and night cycle now continues no matter where players are, including towns.
Threads of Time Helps Players Track the Story
The remake also introduces Threads of Time, a new feature that lets players check their story progress and next objective at any point during the adventure.
A large tapestry will gradually fill in as Link’s journey continues, giving players a visual way to track their adventure through Hyrule.
This should help new players who may be experiencing Ocarina of Time for the first time while also giving returning fans a new way to follow the story.
You Can Hum Ocarina Songs Into the Switch 2 Microphone
One of the most surprising new features uses the Nintendo Switch 2 system’s built-in microphone.
In Ocarina of Time, players can play or even hum one of Link’s learned ocarina melodies near the system, and Link will perform the song in the game.
Nintendo also revealed two ocarina accessories coming later this year: a playable version for fans who want the real instrument experience and an electric version from HORI that can play notes or full songs at the press of a button.
This is a clever way to connect one of Ocarina of Time’s most iconic mechanics with modern hardware.
Special Physical Edition Packaging
Nintendo also confirmed that the first print run of the physical version of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2 will include special packaging.
The commemorative release will feature textured foil cover art and will be available while supplies last.
For collectors, this could become one of the most sought-after Zelda items of the anniversary year.
Zelda 40th Anniversary Nintendo Switch 2 Hardware Launches October 29
A week before Ocarina of Time launches, Nintendo will release the Nintendo Switch 2 - The Legend of Zelda - 40th Anniversary Edition system on October 29.
The special edition console features a Triforce design and will be joined by several matching accessories, including:
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller: The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition
- Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller with display stand
- Nintendo Switch 2 carrying case with screen protector
For fans who have been waiting for a Zelda-themed Switch 2, this is likely to be one of the biggest hardware releases of the year.
New Ocarina of Time Amiibo Coming in 2027
Nintendo also revealed new Young Link and Young Zelda amiibo figures based on The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time.
The figures will launch in 2027 and can be used in the Nintendo Switch 2 remake to unlock special in-game masks that evoke a retro graphical style.
The previously announced Mineru’s Construct amiibo for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom will release earlier, on September 17.
Zelda Notes Adds Ocarina of Time Support
Nintendo is also expanding ZELDA NOTES, a game-specific service available through the Nintendo Switch App for compatible smart devices.
The service already supports the Nintendo Switch 2 Editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. With Ocarina of Time support, Nintendo is adding several new features to help players engage with the remake in different ways.
New Zelda Notes features for Ocarina of Time include:
- Today’s Record, which tracks daily accomplishments and stats
- Gossip Quest, where players find in-game locations using hint images
- Play Ocarina, a virtual touchscreen ocarina for smart devices
- Ocarina of Time Quiz, featuring more than 2,000 questions
The quiz can be taken once per day, or players can spend in-game rupees to try again.
Worldwide Zelda 40th Anniversary Concert Series Announced
Nintendo also announced The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Concert series.
The concert tour will feature music from across the franchise, from classic tracks to modern melodies. The series begins in Japan next January, followed by North America, Europe, and Australia.
The tour schedule begins with:
- Japan tour starting in Tokyo in January 2027
- North American tour starting in Chicago in February 2027
- European tour starting in London in April 2027
- Australian tour starting in Melbourne in May 2027
For a series known for its unforgettable music, this concert tour feels like one of the most fitting ways to celebrate 40 years of Zelda.
Nintendo Museum Joins the Celebration
The Nintendo Museum in Kyoto, Japan will also celebrate The Legend of Zelda’s 40th anniversary.
The museum will introduce a special Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary ticket design starting September 9, with new photo opportunities beginning November 5.
Nintendo also announced the Super Family Restaurant, opening in fall 2026, where visitors can enjoy a meal surrounded by Link and other Nintendo characters.
The museum’s anniversary activities will continue for one year.
Nintendo Today Adds Daily Zelda Digital Cards
Starting tomorrow, users of the Nintendo Today! smart device app can collect daily digital cards based on The Legend of Zelda series.
The app’s calendar animations will also change to feature games from throughout the franchise.
It is a smaller announcement compared to the game and hardware reveals, but it gives fans a daily way to celebrate Zelda’s history.
LEGO Zelda and Hasbro Master Sword Revealed
Nintendo partners are also joining the anniversary with new collectibles and collaborations.
The LEGO The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time - Link & Epona set is a 1,750-piece collectible display model designed for adults. It will be available starting in spring 2027.
Hasbro is also releasing the Legend of Zelda Electronic Master Sword, a 27-inch collectible featuring more than 15 touch and motion-activated sounds. It also arrives in spring 2027.
Between the LEGO set, Master Sword, amiibo, hardware, and special physical edition, Zelda collectors are going to have a very busy anniversary year.
Live-Action The Legend of Zelda Movie Opens April 30, 2027
Nintendo also confirmed that the live-action The Legend of Zelda movie will open in theaters worldwide on April 30, 2027.
The film is being produced by Nintendo, Arad Productions Inc., and Sony Pictures Entertainment. Officially titled The Legend of Zelda, the movie is described as an original film based on the stories, ideas, and concepts built across 40 years of games.
With the franchise celebrating its 40th anniversary and Ocarina of Time being rebuilt for Switch 2, 2027 is shaping up to be a huge year for Zelda beyond gaming.
Zelda Games Available Across Switch and Switch 2
Nintendo also reminded fans that there are already many Zelda games available across Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2.
Players can check out the Nintendo Switch 2 editions of:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
Nintendo Switch players can also enjoy:
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild
- The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom
- The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom
Nintendo Switch Online and Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members can also explore classic Zelda titles through the Nintendo Classics libraries and Nintendo Music.
Why This Anniversary Direct Matters
The Legend of Zelda has been one of Nintendo’s most important franchises for 40 years, and this Direct treated that legacy seriously.
Nintendo did not simply announce a logo, a sale, and a few small products. Instead, the company laid out a full anniversary plan across games, hardware, music, movies, museums, apps, toys, collectibles, and live events.
The Ocarina of Time remake is clearly the centerpiece, and for good reason. The original game shaped modern 3D action-adventure design and remains one of the most beloved entries in the series. Rebuilding it for Switch 2 gives Nintendo a powerful way to celebrate the past while introducing a new generation to one of Link’s defining adventures.
Final Thoughts
The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct delivered a huge celebration for longtime fans and new players.
The remake of Ocarina of Time on Nintendo Switch 2 is easily the biggest announcement, especially with its rebuilt visuals, modernized controls, fully voiced cutscenes, expanded dialogue, orchestral music, and microphone-supported ocarina features. Add in the Zelda-themed Switch 2 hardware, new amiibo, Zelda Notes updates, global concerts, LEGO and Hasbro collectibles, Nintendo Museum events, daily digital cards, and a live-action movie date, and this anniversary feels much bigger than a single game release.
Whether your Zelda journey began in 1986 or is just starting now, Nintendo is giving fans plenty of ways to celebrate 40 years of adventure.