Nintendo is set to release *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* for the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, 2026. Previews (play reports) of the game from media outlets around the world were released on October 14, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive.
Praise from around the world for the game’s graphics, gameplay, and frame rate improvements
This title is a full remake of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, originally released for the Nintendo 64 in 1998. In addition to a complete overhaul of the graphics, the game system has also been updated—including the ability to jump at will.
Now that previews from media outlets around the world have been released, articles praising this remake are prominent across the board.
IGN
This is not merely a faithful remake. It places a strong emphasis on adding depth to the game world through new dialogue, revamped puzzles, and a new art style crafted with meticulous attention to detail.
Several changes have also been made to the game’s structure, resulting in a more coherent world.
The outdated tutorial has been removed and replaced with a new one tailored to modern control schemes. During this roughly one-hour playthrough, these subtle changes were evident throughout.Theatrical elements are actively incorporated into the presentation.
*Ocarina of Time* is, in essence, a stage play. Hyrule is the stage. Dungeons and villages are the sets. Enemies and villagers are the actors. And Link is, of course, the chosen protagonist.
VGC
The version I played is a visually stunning recreation of the original N64 release; while it respects the elements that define the original, it doesn’t shy away from incorporating subtle adjustments and new elements throughout.
This time around, she (Navi) is far less of a nuisance.
Noticing that players in *Ocarina of Time* often spent a lot of time repeatedly performing forward rolls—which are faster than normal running—Nintendo wisely added a new dash function that can be executed simply by holding down a button.
With the frame rate improved to 60 fps—three times that of the N64 version’s 20 fps—the controls have been significantly enhanced.
It was all enough to drive another perfect gyroscope hookshot straight into my heart.
Eurogamer
In this *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, the graphics have been completely reworked. As a result, Hyrule has been breathed new life into, with added texture and depth.
There’s one thing I didn’t like about this remake: the English voice acting. It reminds me of the cheesy anime dubs from the late ’90s to the early 2000s—and not in a good way.
Fortunately, behind even the most over-the-top English voice acting, there are excellent subtitles. That’s right—you can change the audio language.Based on my playthrough so far, I’m really enjoying this game. From the graphics, which portray Hyrule from a new perspective, to the familiar music that’s been given a fresh breath of life, every change feels meaningful.
Game Informer
I had hoped Nintendo would port the 2011 3D remaster, but they’ve given us something even better: a complete remake built from the ground up, featuring stunning visuals, numerous quality-of-life improvements, and even voice-acted cutscenes.
Just running through Kokiri Forest is enough to completely captivate you with the charm of this remake. The visuals are truly breathtaking.
Thanks to the new jump button and the ability to dash after rolling, it feels like you’re playing an entirely new game.
While the lock-on feature allows Link to dodge and counterattack, I couldn’t find an easy way to switch targets when fighting multiple enemies at once.
GamesRadar+
This remake is a collection of subtle refinements, and beneath its dazzling exterior lies a work that remains incredibly faithful to the original game that paved the way for 3D Zelda.
Having finished my preview of *The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time*, I can’t wait to see the rest of Hyrule from this perspective. The changes are subtle yet confident, creating a unique identity that coexists with the original’s edgy atmosphere.
Polygon
Nintendo seems to have pulled it off brilliantly. Not only are the graphics astonishingly beautiful in this remake, but the gameplay is also smoother than ever.
Nintendo’s new Zelda title is snappy, polished, and offers a completely fresh experience.
The Shortcut
When played on a 4K TV, the remaster’s graphics are enhanced, and the vibrant colors really stand out.
The Kokiri Forest theme, performed by a full orchestra, will transport you back to a bygone era.
That concludes our roundup of preview reactions from media outlets around the world. While there are some minor issues with the English voice acting and target switching, overall, it seems safe to say the game has been met with rave reviews.
*The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time* is scheduled for release on November 5, 2026, for the Nintendo Switch 2. The price is 8,980 yen (tax included) for the physical edition and 7,980 yen (tax included) for the digital edition.
