The Ocarina of Time remake feels remarkably modern — and surprisingly terrifying

This remake makes a seminal game accessible to a new generation and returning players with modern conveniences and updated visuals.

Nintendo is releasing a remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5th. This remake aims to modernize the 1998 Nintendo 64 classic, addressing frustrations from the original and incorporating features familiar to players of recent Zelda titles like Breath of the Wild. Key enhancements include a new progression marker called Threads of Time, Zelda Notes integration with the Switch app for maps and information, and a dedicated jump button. The remake also features improved controls for item swapping and camera movement. Early hands-on impressions highlight a more modern feel with snappy controls and engaging combat, while also emphasizing the game's darker, more terrifying themes through its updated, realistic art style. The visual evolution in areas like the Forest Temple is designed to immerse players in the game's narrative of averting cataclysm, offering cinematic moments and enhanced horror elements not possible in the original. This release capitalizes on the franchise's current popularity, following the success of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, and precedes a live-action movie planned for April 2027.

The Ocarina of Time remake signifies Nintendo's strategy to leverage its most beloved franchises by updating them with modern gameplay sensibilities and visual fidelity. By incorporating features like the Threads of Time progression marker and streamlined item management, Nintendo is lowering the barrier to entry for players accustomed to contemporary game design, ensuring its legacy titles resonate with a broader audience. This approach acknowledges the increasing diversity of the Zelda fanbase, bridging the gap between long-time enthusiasts and those drawn in by recent, open-world entries.

The emphasis on enhanced horror elements and a realistic art style in the remake suggests a deliberate effort to tap into the atmospheric depth that made the original so impactful, while amplifying it with current-gen capabilities. This allows for a more nuanced presentation of the game's narrative themes, potentially attracting players who appreciate a more mature and immersive experience. The integration with the Switch app also points to Nintendo's ongoing exploration of interconnected experiences across their hardware and companion platforms.