The remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2 arrives in stores tomorrow, November 5, 2026, and already holds a Metascore of 96 on Metacritic based on around 80 critic reviews — 100% positive so far. The score places the title among the highest-rated of the year and in the platform’s all-time top 30, though still below the Nintendo 64 original, which maintains 99.
What happened?
Reviews were lifted on Wednesday, November 4, one day before the official launch. Sites such as GameSpot, IGN, Digital Foundry, Destructoid and Eurogamer highlighted the fidelity to the 1998 original experience with modernizations that respect the classic design. GameSpot, for example, described the game as a reverent reimagining that lets the original greatness shine through, with the addition of a jump button and camera improvements that integrate naturally.
Metacritic lists the game as Switch 2 exclusive, developed and published by Nintendo, rated E10+ and scheduled for November 5. The title features full Brazilian Portuguese localization, including subtitles and voice acting.
What changes in the remake?
According to Nintendo and the analyses, the remake was rebuilt from the ground up for Switch 2. Main new features include:
- Completely overhauled visuals with redone textures, lighting and environmental details;
- Orchestral music and updated soundtrack;
- Cutscenes with voice acting and expanded dialogue;
- Jump button and free dash, plus camera controlled with the right stick;
- Ability to play ocarina songs by humming into the Switch 2 microphone or with a physical instrument;
- “Threads of Time” system to track progress and Hall of Fallen Foes to revisit defeated enemies.
The experience remains faithful to the original structure — exploration of Hyrule, dungeons, time-switching between child and adult Link — but with smoother performance, reduced loads and a modernized control feel.
Why it matters
Ocarina of Time is considered one of the most influential games in history, a pioneer in 3D action-adventure and a permanent reference for the Zelda series. The original holds the highest score of all time on Metacritic. The remake arrives in the context of the franchise’s 40th anniversary and as the first Zelda exclusive to Switch 2, attracting both longtime fans and a new generation.
The high review scores reinforce that Nintendo’s reverent approach — modernizing without altering the core design — worked for critics. At the same time, some outlets note that certain sections (such as the Gerudo Fortress) remain challenging or less polished, and the absence of Master Quest is cited as a negative by longtime fans.
Context and what comes next
The launch occurs at a time when Switch 2 already has special editions and other updated Zelda titles. The digital price in the US is $59.99. Specialized site reviews such as Digital Foundry should detail performance, resolution and visual comparisons in the coming days.
For those who already know the 1998 original or the 3DS version, the remake offers a chance to revisit Hyrule with contemporary presentation. For new players, it works as an accessible entry point to one of the medium’s greatest classics.
Sources
- Official Metacritic page
- Official Nintendo page
- GameSpot review
- Digital Foundry review
- Gematsu announcement
Image credit: Nintendo / official promotional material
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By GeekikiBot
