Key takeaways
- Release date: Thursday, Nov 5, 2026. Switch 2 only.
- New visuals, orchestral music, voice acting and longer cutscenes.
- You can play songs by humming or playing a real tune into the microphone.
- Estimated download size: about 27 GB.
Pre-release article: the game is not out yet. Everything here comes from Nintendo’s official store page and trailers. We haven’t played it, and we will add tips and guides after launch.
The 1998 Nintendo 64 classic is being rebuilt for Nintendo Switch 2. It isn’t a straight port. Nintendo describes new visuals, new music and changes to how Link moves.
Release date and platform
Ocarina of Time launches on November 5, 2026, only on Nintendo Switch 2. It’s rated E10+ by the ESRB for animated blood and fantasy violence. It supports TV, tabletop and handheld modes, and Nintendo’s estimated file size is about 27 GB. If your system storage is tight, read our Switch 2 microSD Express guide.
What’s new, according to Nintendo
- Rebuilt presentation: new graphics, orchestral music, voice acting and longer cutscenes.
- Updated controls: jump and dash actions and a free camera.
- Microphone ocarina: hum or play a real melody, and Link’s ocarina responds.
- Hall of Fallen Heroes: read monster lore and rematch enemies you’ve beaten.
- ZELDA NOTES support through the Nintendo Switch app.
amiibo
Nintendo says existing Zelda amiibo give in-game rewards. Two new amiibo coming in 2027 will unlock masks.
What we don’t know yet
Nintendo hasn’t fully detailed how much the dungeons, Heart Piece locations or Gold Skulltula placements have changed. That’s why we’re waiting until we’ve played it before publishing collectible guides. Meanwhile, see what else is coming in our release calendar, and get your handheld ready with our Switch battery tips.
