"However relentless it may be, there are things that not even time can change". This is one of the striking lessons we learn from The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. Almost three decades later, the game is still one of the most acclaimed in history, something that the years have also not been able to change. Now, the Nintendo 64 classic is back in the spotlight with the release of a bold remake for the Switch 2.

• 'The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time' Remake Debuts With One of the Highest Scores Ever

The new version features improved graphics and controls and presents us, once again, with the saga that shaped the entire industry and marked generations of passionate fans. After about 40 hours of gameplay and a deep dive into practically every corner of Hyrule, there is no doubt that this is a remake that bets on fidelity to the original, with specific changes and additions, as well as infinite potential to enchant both veterans and newcomers to the franchise.

That said, the narrative remained virtually unchanged. The story follows Link, a little boy who is the only one in his village without a fairy. One night, the young boy receives a special call from the Great Deko Tree, the guardian entity of the Kokiri Forest. The invitation then quickly reveals itself as the beginning of an epic journey.

The saga is set in the kingdom of Hyrule, where the deceitful Ganondorf weaves his schemes to seize the power of the Triforce—the sacred relic created by the goddesses Din, Nayru, and Farore. Aware of the villain's nefarious plans, the princess of Hyrule, Zelda, asks the protagonist for help to protect the kingdom. Indeed, this is an adventure defined by the duality between two phases of life. On one hand, innocence, marked by the discoveries of childhood; on the other, maturity, symbolized by the duties and sacrifices of an adult hero.

In this context, at the beginning of the game, we assume the role of young Link. Equipped with a Deko Shield and the Kokiri Sword, the youngster ventures through the kingdom in search of the Spiritual Stones. Just like in the original N64 game, this is the ideal time to explore the various locations that make up the map, collect Skull Emblems, and find fragments of hearts (to increase the chances of survival when facing different types of enemies and bosses).

Exploring the imposing Kokiri Forest, Hyrule Town and Castle, the peaceful Kakariko Village, or the charming Lon Lon Ranch is still one of the best parts of this journey. By the way, those with good memories probably won't have too many problems exploring and solving puzzles. That's because there haven't been significant changes in terms of level design. Everything seems to remain in the same place, with a few exceptions.

In this aspect, what we have are some specific adjustments; starting with the addition of the jump button, which didn't exist in the original 1998 game. In the Nintendo 64 game, Link jumped automatically whenever he reached the edge of a platform. Now, the player needs to be more attentive, since the new feature really has a considerable impact on the challenges in the levels, solving puzzles, and boss battles.

The puzzles, especially those found in the Temples during Link's adult phase, still have the potential to confuse even the most dedicated players. In adulthood, the Hero of Time must cope with the loss of his childhood, but this also translates into new equipment and, consequently, more exploration possibilities that were not previously available.

Therefore, the main change is undoubtedly the visual aspect. The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (1998) was the first 3D game in the franchise. At that time, the aim was to consider, for the first time, the challenges characteristic of the series in a three-dimensional context. Now, three-dimensionality is already part of the players' imagination, and the real challenge for the remake was to preserve the essence of the classic with the graphics of a next-generation console. An objective that was successfully achieved.

In particular, staying true to the narrative structure and gameplay isn't a flaw. After all, how dare you drastically change one of the best games ever made? In this way, the Ocarina of Time remake seems more concerned with recreating the unique feeling of exploring Hyrule as if it were the first time. Despite focusing on rich detail and textures, the visuals are far from the soulless realism that the initial impressions from the trailers suggested.

On the contrary, there is evident care in recreating legendary characters, unique and unusual NPCs, as well as adding new animations for the bosses. And speaking of captivating details, the title also doesn't forgo the particularities that made the original work so acclaimed. The day and night cycle returns along with the fun minigames that offer unmissable rewards. Going to the shooting range in Hyrule Town or the fishing pond at Lake Hylia may seem like just a set of uncomplicated side quests, but it guarantees great prizes.

Regarding the main mechanics, we couldn't leave out one of the most relevant aspects of the entire game: the Ocarina. For the remake, Nintendo added a new function that allows players to hum the songs. The feature works well, and perhaps the hardest part is getting the songs out of your head after a few good hours of gameplay. Zelda's Lullaby, Saria's Song, Epona's Song — all these brilliant tracks are back in revamped and orchestrated versions.

Last but not least, we have the pinnacle of new features in Ocarina of Time Remake: the Brazilian Portuguese localization. For the first time, a game in the franchise arrives dubbed in the country, and the experience is elevated to the maximum. Terms like "fadinho" (fairy), "desfadado" (unfairy), "Dekomerciante" (Decomerchant), and the unparalleled charisma of characters like Darunia make all the difference in the immersion and connection we build with the game.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (2026) doesn't attempt to reinvent one of the best games ever made. It makes well-chosen and safe additions, while trying at all costs to maintain the beauty, the pain, the farewells, and the courage that only the saga of a true Hero of Time could convey. Certainly, it's a version that will touch the hearts of veterans and open the door for newcomers to be enchanted by this universe.

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

05 novembro 2026

Aventura

Developer: Nintendo EPD Production Group Nº 3

Publisher: Nintendo

Rating: 10 years

Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2

Tested on: Nintendo Switch 2