Nintendo has confirmed that a fully updated remake of "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" will launch on the Nintendo Switch 2 on November 5, 2026. This release anchors a massive wave of software announcements for the next-generation console, which also includes major titles from Capcom and newly unveiled first-party games.
The announcement, made during a recent Nintendo Direct presentation, outlines a robust software pipeline designed to establish the Switch 2's library. By combining beloved classics rebuilt for modern hardware with brand-new entries in flagship franchises, Nintendo is positioning its upcoming platform to appeal to both nostalgic veterans and new players alike.
Rebuilding Hyrule for a New Generation
The upcoming remake of "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" serves as the centerpiece of the franchise's 40th anniversary celebrations. The original Legend of Zelda debuted in 1986, and this new edition of the 1998 Nintendo 64 classic has been rebuilt to leverage the capabilities of the Nintendo Switch 2. Players can expect overhauled visuals, fully voiced cutscenes, expanded character dialogue, and a symphonic orchestral score. The game also introduces reworked camera and movement controls, aiming to deliver a more immersive and responsive journey through the kingdom of Hyrule.
In addition to visual and control enhancements, the remake introduces unique hardware integration designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch 2. Players will be able to sing or hum learned ocarina melodies directly into the console's built-in microphone, prompting the protagonist, Link, to perform the corresponding song in the game. Pre-orders for the title have already gone live on the Nintendo Store and the Nintendo eShop ahead of its November debut.
Capcom Commits Major Franchises to Switch 2
Third-party publisher Capcom is also throwing significant weight behind the Nintendo Switch 2 with several major releases scheduled for the coming months. During the Nintendo Direct, Capcom announced that the deluxe editions of "Resident Evil 2," "Resident Evil 3," and "Resident Evil 4" will all arrive on the platform this October. These releases will include all previously released downloadable content, bringing the complete modern trilogy of the survival-horror franchise to Nintendo's new hardware in a single month.
Capcom also confirmed that "Monster Hunter Wilds" is headed to the Nintendo Switch 2. Early adopters can pre-order the game starting October 19, 2026, for $30, while those purchasing after the game's official December release will pay $40. To allow players to test the game's performance on the new hardware before purchasing, Capcom plans to release a playable demo.
Capcom shared new gameplay details for "Mega Man: Dual Override," showcasing the character Proto Man. The preview highlighted Proto Man's melee attacks and his "override" power-up mechanic, which requires players to manage a dedicated heat gauge during combat. Nintendo will support the release with two new amiibo figures featuring Mega Man and Proto Man.
First-Party Lineup Expands with Metroid and Kirby
Nintendo used the Direct presentation to look further into the Switch 2's future, unveiling two major first-party titles scheduled for 2027. "Metroid Ravenous" is set to launch on January 28, 2027, marking the return of intergalactic bounty hunter Samus Aran. The game will launch alongside a new amiibo collection featuring Samus and a Chozo Statue. A special edition of the game will also be available, bundling a third amiibo of Samus in her Metroid Suit alongside a collectible steel case. Pre-orders for these physical editions are currently available.
Looking toward the spring of 2027, Nintendo announced "Kirby and the World Beyond," a 3D adventure game designed to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Kirby franchise, which began in 1992. The title will allow players to freely explore a fully three-dimensional universe using Kirby's signature Copy Abilities. The game is scheduled to debut during the spring window, serving as a major pillar for Nintendo's second-year software lineup on the new console.
Esports and Live Gaming Events Expand Nationwide
Beyond console software, the broader gaming landscape is preparing for a busy schedule of live events and competitive tournaments. Epic Games is partnering with AMC Theatres to bring the 2026 Rocket League World Championship Finals to the big screen on September 20, 2026. The live broadcast will be screened at 50 AMC locations across the United States, including major markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Boston. The eight-hour event features a $1.2 million prize pool, and ticket holders will receive a commemorative ticket redeemable for exclusive in-game cosmetics.
Ellen Copaken, the senior vice president of business development at AMC Theatres, emphasized the community aspect of the theatrical broadcast. "Such a big part of the magic of movie theaters is their ability to bring people together for unforgettable shared experiences, and a live event like the Rocket League World Championship is a great example of that," Copaken stated. "We're excited to give fans the opportunity to watch esports' biggest stage unfold live on massive screens, surrounded by fellow Rocket League fans."
the Penny Arcade Expo tournament and convention circuit has finalized its upcoming schedule. PAX West will return to the Seattle Convention Center next Labor Day weekend, running from September 3 to September 6, 2027. The brand is also expanding with PAX Unplugged Houston, scheduled for June 25 to June 27, 2027, at the George R. Brown Convention Center. On the East Coast, PAX Unplugged 2026 will take place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center from December 6 to December 8, 2026, followed by PAX East 2027 in Boston from April 22 to April 25, 2027.
Next Steps for Platform Pre-Orders and Releases
As the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2 approaches, players can expect a steady stream of software releases starting with Capcom's Resident Evil deluxe editions in October 2026. This will be followed immediately by the highly anticipated release of "The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time" remake on November 5, 2026. Pre-orders for both the Zelda remake and "Metroid Ravenous" are currently open on official digital storefronts.
Looking ahead to the end of the year, the pre-order window for "Monster Hunter Wilds" will open on October 19, 2026, ahead of its December launch. Nintendo has indicated that further details regarding the Switch 2's hardware specifications and additional launch-window titles will be shared in subsequent presentations leading up to the holiday shopping season.
