The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the game the Switch 2 was made for | usagoldmines.com

The Nintendo Switch 2 hit shelves last year. But if Mario Kart World and Pokopia weren’t enough to sway you over to the handheld life, the latest Zelda installment may change your mind.  

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the second remake of the 1998 N64 title by the same name. But this is by no means a straightforward port with a minor graphics upgrade (looking at you, Skyrim). This is a full revamp of a classic for the modern age – and no, you don’t need to have played the original to enjoy it.  

The sales speak for themselves, with over 5 million copies bought in the first four days of launch. But if you need a little more convincing, I’ve gone hands on with the game, exploring Hyrule in all its glory.  

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

For old and new players alike  

Now I confess, I was a tad late to the Zelda party (I blame my past The Sims addiction taking most of my money). Breath of the Wild was my first taste of the franchise, but I’ve been playing this alongside my editorial assistant/husband who experienced the 2011 3DS version of Ocarina of Time. It’s been interesting to see our different perspectives.  

He’s able to compare how the mechanics and world have changed for the better. For example, the fact that time now passes in towns rather than just in the overworld, or that there’s finally a dedicated jump button. But perhaps his biggest source of amusement is seeing me experience everything for the first time, knowing what’s coming.  

For me, seeing how this Zelda universe differs to my beloved Breath of the Wild (seriously, I’ve got the tattoo to prove it) is intriguing. There’s more childhood wonder and whimsy in Ocarina of Time, meaning it’s a suitable title for the whole family. It also feels more linear and less sprawling… something very useful now I have less time on my hands as a new mom. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

Graphics galore 

While the Nintendo Switch 2 won’t exactly measure up to the latest and greatest gaming PCs on the graphics front, The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time certainly pushes what this console is capable of with great levels of success.  

Nintendo Switch 2

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Price When Reviewed:

$449.99

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$449 at Walmart |
$449.99 at Best Buy |
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Playing it docked gives you the best view, with 4K HDR graphics at 60Hz (or 1440p at 120Hz, should you prefer). The world of Hyrule has an ethereal haze to it, with colors popping beautifully on the screen and dynamic shadows bringing the setting to life. Kokiri Forest is a particularly magical start to the game, with lush greens and twinkly lights that are so captivating, you won’t want to leave.  

This is the first game that has really exploited what this console is capable of compared to its predecessor. Now sure, going handheld isn’t quite as immersive, and those with a keen eye may notice a slight dip in quality with visuals in the far distance. Nonetheless, that large 7.9-inch screen will still impress when you’re looking to play on the go/from the comfort of your own bed. 

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

That’s the score 

Nintendo’s hidden superpower is its music, and Ocarina of Time has a completely reimagined soundtrack with a belting orchestra.  

From the moment you boot it up for the first time, the opening music has you hooked. The developers have paid attention to the little details, with the sound transitioning beautifully between day and night in Kakariko Village. 

The voice acting in key scenes is also a wonderful touch carried over from the open-world games, along with the iconic/annoying commentary from Navi, depending on your preference. And less we forget there’s the interactive element with the Ocarina itself… though I’ll hold my thoughts on that for another piece.

Hannah Cowton-Barnes / Foundry

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time is the game the Nintendo Switch 2 was made for. It’s beautiful to experience, a joy to ‘listen’ to and will appeal to all kinds of gamers. If you’re thinking about pulling the trigger on your first handheld console, now may be the time.

Ocarina of Time is out now, and costs $59.99 for the digital version and $69.99 for the physical edition. The Switch 2 starts from $499.99.