- Primary Subject: The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct
- Key Update: Nintendo showcased the first gameplay footage and confirmed a November 5, 2026 release date for the Switch 2 exclusive remake during the Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct.
- Status: Confirmed
- Last Verified: September 8, 2026
- Quick Answer: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake launches November 5, 2026, exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2, featuring enhanced gameplay, dynamic controls, and expanded visuals.
The first of two September Nintendo Directs has just aired, kicking off with a special Zelda 40th Anniversary presentation.
A second Direct will take place on September 9 to showcase all things Nintendo, with various announcements and updates for popular titles expected to feature.
For now, though, all eyes are on The Legend of Zelda, and we've received some fresh details on Ocarina of Time for the Switch 2. Here's everything you need to know about that and so much more!
The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct Recap
Zelda turned 40 this year, and Nintendo is celebrating its birthday in style. With a highly anticipated remake in the works and a live-action movie in production, fans have plenty to be excited about, and the 40th Anniversary Direct did not disappoint.
We got a gameplay deep dive into Ocarina of Time on Switch 2, as well as a release date for The Legend of Zelda film, plus a few more surprises along the way.
Here's a full recap of everything that was announced during the presentation:
Zelda Movie Name Confirmed Alongside Release Date
The live-action film adaptation, officially titled The Legend of Zelda, is scheduled to hit theatres on April 30, 2027. Franchise creator Shigeru Miyamoto is actively involved in the project, working closely with the production team to bring the beloved universe to the big screen.
Ocarina of Time Remake Gameplay and Features Revealed
Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma showcased the first gameplay footage of the Ocarina of Time remake, highlighting a realistic visual style starting in Kokiri Forest. The remake introduces expanded character dialogue to enrich personality, alongside enhanced movement capabilities such as a dedicated jump button, free swimming, and a new roll-dash sprinting mechanic for traversing large areas like Hyrule Field.
Classic dungeon elements remain faithful to the original, featuring familiar combat, original sound effects, and classic puzzle mechanics inside the Great Deku Tree. However, modern quality-of-life improvements have been integrated, including quick item-swapping, streamlined aiming for tools like the Fairy Slingshot, and intentionally retained loading screens designed to preserve the nostalgic feel of the Nintendo 64 game.
Exploration outside the forest introduces the brand-new "Threads of Time" feature, which tracks story objectives and fills out a dynamic tapestry as players progress. Hyrule Castle Town has been revamped with a full third-person camera perspective instead of a fixed angle, enriched background details, and a real-time day/night cycle that continues to pass while inside town areas.
Interactivity reaches new levels through innovative controls and musical mechanics. Players can buy classic items like Deku Nuts in shops, interact with familiar town residents, and even use voice input by humming learned melodies to have Link play the Ocarina in-game.
Ocarina of Time Remake Arrives This November
The long-awaited Ocarina of Time remake officially launches on November 5, 2026, exclusively on the Switch 2.
By locking in an early November release date, Nintendo sets up one of the biggest gaming launches of the year, positioning the beloved remake as a primary competitor to GTA 6, which arrives just two weeks later.
Nintendo Switch 2 The Legend of Zelda - 40th Anniversary Edition
Nintendo has officially announced a Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition for the Switch 2. The special release features a custom-designed console, along with a matching Pro Controller and carrying case, all bearing the iconic Triforce motif.
Anticipated to be a major hit among fans and collectors, this anniversary collection is set to launch on October 29.
Ocarina of Time Remake Companion App
The upcoming Ocarina of Time remake will feature a dedicated companion app called Zelda Notes. Designed to complement the core game, the app focuses heavily on musical elements, allowing fans to interact with the iconic soundtrack and melodies that define the title.
In addition to its music-centered features, Zelda Notes includes an interactive Zelda quiz to test players' franchise knowledge. This supplementary app aims to enhance the overall gameplay experience by offering extra entertainment and thematic content alongside the main game.
Ocarina of Time Amiibo
Nintendo is releasing new Young Link and Young Zelda amiibo figures that allow players to unlock exclusive special masks within the game.
Zelda Orchestral Concert Announced
During the Direct presentation, legendary composer Koji Kondo reflected on how music within The Legend of Zelda series has evolved across its history. He revealed that the arrangement played at the beginning of the broadcast was crafted specifically to commemorate the franchise's 40th anniversary and featured a medley of iconic songs from across the games.
To celebrate this major milestone, Nintendo is launching a series of live 40th-anniversary concerts. The performances will kick off in Japan in January 2027 before heading to London on April 3.
Merch Releases
To mark the 40th anniversary of The Legend of Zelda, Nintendo is opening a dedicated exhibition inside its museum in Japan to celebrate the milestone, alongside installing a new Link statue in an exclusive Nintendo restaurant.
Alongside these venue attractions, a variety of collectible merchandise was also revealed. The upcoming lineup includes Amiibo figures and Lego building sets, offering collectors plenty of new items to look forward to.
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