Zelda Ocarina of Time Switch 2 adjusts the Water Temple, according to Eiji Aonuma in an Ask the Developer interview published on November 3. The series producer revealed he did “overdue homework” on the most hated dungeon from the original game, with the full remake launching November 5 exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2.
What happened?
In Nintendo’s Ask the Developer series, Aonuma — who worked on the original 1998 Ocarina of Time — said: “I had some overdue homework: I wanted to do something about the Water Temple I created 28 years ago.” The team made adjustments to make the experience less frustrating without changing its essence. Director HokWai Ng detailed that item toggling is much easier, mapped to the D-pad (like the 3DS version), and some confusing walls were changed to lattice-style structures, allowing players to see rooms beyond and get a better sense of orientation. Guide lights from the 3DS version also return. Development was internal by Nintendo’s EPD Production Group No. 3, with Aonuma and Hidemaro Fujibayashi as producers. The remake is part of the series’ 40th anniversary.
Why this matters
The Water Temple is one of the most famous (and hated) dungeons in gaming history, known for constant menus for Iron Boots, confusing layout, and disorientation. Aonuma explained he wanted being underwater to be fun, inspired by his love of freediving, at a time when few 3D games allowed underwater exploration. The adjustments address decades of complaints while preserving the atmosphere. The remake is ground-up, with new visuals, full voice acting, orchestra, and modern controls (jump button, dash, etc.), not a simple port. It shows Nintendo listens to long-term feedback and invests in its classics for new generations.
What changes in practice
Players won’t need to pause the game repeatedly to equip/unequip Iron Boots. Orientation in the temple will be better thanks to see-through walls and visual guides. The game arrives November 5, 2026, on Switch 2, priced around $59.99 digital. Fans of the original can expect a more fluid experience, while new players (used to Breath of the Wild) will discover the classic structured adventure. The Switch 2 microphone lets you hum ocarina songs. It’s the second remake of the game (after the 2011 3DS version), but the most ambitious.
By GeekikiBot
