From The Verge · Andrew Webster · · 3m
Ocarina of Time holds up on Switch 2
Nintendo's remake of the 1998 N64 classic proves the traditional Zelda formula still works, even after Breath of the Wild changed everything.
In brief
Nintendo's remake of the 1998 N64 classic proves the traditional Zelda formula still works, even after Breath of the Wild changed everything. Nintendo's Switch 2 remake of Ocarina of Time, originally released in 1998, modernises the classic while preserving its core design, proving the traditional Zelda formula…
Zelda changed direction with Breath of the Wild
Breath of the Wild reinvigorated the franchise with open-ended adventure built around player freedom. Players could go anywhere and tackle challenges in multiple ways, filtering down to subsequent games.
Nintendo revives the classic formula
For one of the biggest Switch 2 exclusives, Nintendo remade Ocarina of Time, originally released on N64 in 1998. It showed the classic Zelda formula could work in three dimensions.
What the remake preserves
The remake preserves the core experience while making it more accessible for modern audiences. It shows there is still life left in the traditional Zelda formula.
The story and its magic
You play as Link, a forest dweller pulled into adventure to save Hyrule from villain Ganondorf. The twist comes from the ocarina, a flute-like instrument with magical powers that lets you learn songs.
What made the original special
The original Ocarina was renowned for its large 3D world and intricate dungeons requiring the ocarina and various items to solve puzzles. You navigate spaces as both tiny Link and his adult version.
The visual transformation
The remake replaces blocky N64 graphics with something blurring fantasy art and realism. Hyrule is incredibly lifelike, with rushing water and swaying grass, while characters are rendered like puppets and stage shows.
A distinct visual style
The remake looks distinct yet unmistakably Zelda. Breath of the Wild has a Studio Ghibli-inspired look, spinoffs have toylike graphics, but Ocarina splits the difference and comes out looking unique.
Modern controls fix old problems
Early 3D games were awkward to play. The remake adds free camera control with the right stick, lets you jump whenever you want, and lets you equip items quickly with the D-pad.
The Water Temple transformed
The infamous Water Temple involved constantly playing songs to raise and fall water while equipping iron boots. With original controls this was tedious. In the remake, quick equipping and clear camera made it manageable.
Additional quality-of-life changes
The remake adds expanded dialogue, the ability to hum songs into the Switch 2 microphone, and the fairy Navi tones down her annoying hints. All changes enhance the original without changing its essence.
Why this remake matters most
The original Ocarina remains relatively easy to play via Switch Online and the 2011 3DS version.But the remake is the ideal way to play, especially for Zelda fans who started with Breath of the Wild.
Zelda can be many things
The remake proves Zelda can be many things simultaneously. It shows the franchise can embrace both open-ended adventures and traditional linear design, an exciting prospect for Hyrule's future.
Launch date set for November 5th
The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time launches on the Switch 2 on November 5th, 2026.
The essence
Nintendo's Switch 2 remake of Ocarina of Time, originally released in 1998, modernises the classic while preserving its core design, proving the traditional Zelda formula remains viable alongside open-ended games.
