Zelda: Ocarina of Time remaster on Switch 2 would be a missed opportunity

Nearly three decades have passed since the release of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time on the Nintendo 64, setting a new standard for 3D action-adventure games. The game is still praised today as one of the best video games ever made.

The impact of Ocarina of Time

Released in 1998, Ocarina of Time introduced a revolutionary camera system with Z-targeting. By pressing the trigger button on the Nintendo 64 controller, players could target enemies or characters. This gameplay innovation arose during a visit to a theme park in Tokyo, where developers drew inspiration from a ninja show featuring a samurai and a battle where only one enemy attacks at a time.

Why a remaster would be a missed opportunity

According to recent rumors, there are discussions about a remake of Ocarina of Time for the Switch 2. It wouldn't be surprising if Nintendo keeps the core experience intact while focusing on updating the visuals. However, this would be a missed opportunity to transform the classic into a modern experience that resonates with today's audience.

The introduction in Kokiri Village, which heavily emphasizes Z-targeting, could be a cumbersome start for new players accustomed to modern gameplay mechanics. With the dual stick system now being a staple of console gaming for 25 years, players should be able to navigate the 3D environment more comfortably.

Changes in gameplay and possibilities

The gameplay system of Ocarina of Time does not allow Link to run, which can be perceived as clunky in contemporary gaming. A remake should consider giving Link more options, such as an actual jump button, as seen in Breath of the Wild.

Additionally, the combat mechanics in a remake could be revised. In the original, only one enemy could attack Link at a time. This system might disappoint modern players, especially given the experiences they have gained from more recent titles.

The technical advancements of the Switch 2

The Switch 2 offers technical improvements over the Nintendo 64, allowing more enemies and NPCs to appear on screen simultaneously. Players should be able to fire bombchus at enemies, use ice arrows, and engage in close combat with a sword in Hyrule Field, which could provide a fresh perspective on battles and exploration in the game.

It's time to reinvent Ocarina of Time with a remake that honors the art direction, story, and fantastic dungeons of the original, without being too constrained by the limitations of the '90s.