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The next announced Zelda remake is The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, coming exclusively to Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026. Nintendo has not given an exact release date in its announcement. If you want a Zelda game to play while you wait, start with Breath of the Wild, then play its sequel, Tears of the Kingdom. Both have Switch 2 Editions, and existing owners may be able to upgrade their original Switch copies instead of buying the games again.
Which Zelda game should you buy first?
For a newcomer looking for a large-scale modern Zelda adventure, start with The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. Follow it with The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which Nintendo describes as a sequel to Breath of the Wild. Each has a Switch 2 Edition with improved performance at higher resolution, HDR support, and access to the game-specific ZELDA NOTES service. Nintendo lists the two editions as released on June 5, 2025.
If you are choosing between physical copies, Nintendo lists a physical Tears of the Kingdom – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition in its US store. Check local stock and your regional store for current availability and price.
Choose the Switch 2 Edition or upgrade an original Switch copy
If you already own either game for the original Nintendo Switch, compare the price of a separate Switch 2 Edition with the upgrade option before buying. Nintendo says existing owners can upgrade. The most specific current price in Nintendo’s cited materials is for Tears of the Kingdom: Nintendo’s US support page listed its upgrade pack at $9.99 USD on October 4, 2026, or at no additional cost for active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members who own the original game. Nintendo UK lists both Zelda upgrade packs among those available to active Expansion Pack members who own the corresponding original game. Prices and membership terms can change, so check Nintendo’s store or support page for your region before purchasing.
#1 Best Overall
- Explore the land and skies of Hyrule—now enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 system!
- Unleash your imagination by using your abilities in surprising and creative ways
- Support your journey with ZELDA NOTES on the Nintendo Switch app
For Breath of the Wild, compare the Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition with the upgrade option if you already own the original. The evidence cited here does not establish a current standalone US price for its upgrade pack.
What changes in the Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition?
Nintendo lists higher resolution, improved frame rates, faster loading, HDR support, and ZELDA NOTES among the Switch 2 Edition features. It also adds an additional manual save file. The second save created in the Switch 2 Edition cannot be transferred back to the original Switch version, and the Switch 2 Edition can be played only on Switch 2.
Rank #2
- Step into a world of adventure—now enhanced for the Nintendo Switch 2 system!
- Use your ingenuity to survive and thrive in Hyrule
- Support your journey with ZELDA NOTES on the Nintendo Switch app
Is Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment worth considering?
Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment is an optional choice if you want action-focused combat rather than another mainline Zelda adventure. Nintendo describes its story as the Imprisoning War, briefly shown in Tears of the Kingdom. It is a Switch 2-only game, with Nintendo listing November 6, 2025, as its release date.
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Compatible amiibo can provide in-game items, according to Nintendo, but amiibo are optional extras—not a requirement to play. Choose this spin-off for its combat style and story connection, not as the next mainline chapter after Tears of the Kingdom.
Rank #3
- Enhanced resolution, framerates, and load times optimized for Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore a massive open-air version of Hyrule with complete freedom.
- Solve physics-based puzzles, survive dynamic weather, and uncover hidden secrets.
- Customize your adventure with weapons, gear, and food you craft yourself.
- Use the ZELDA NOTES app for bonuses, item sharing, and social features.
What Nintendo has announced about the Ocarina of Time remake
In its June 9, 2026 Nintendo Direct announcement, Nintendo said: “The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time: The Nintendo 64 classic returns for a new generation in 2026, reborn exclusively for Nintendo Switch 2!” The announcement confirms the game and the 2026 window, but gives no exact day or preorder details.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Check compatibility before buying older Zelda games
Nintendo describes Nintendo Switch game compatibility on Switch 2 but directs players to software-specific compatibility information. Do not assume every historical Zelda release works identically. Nintendo specifically identifies ZELDA NOTES as a Switch 2 app feature for the Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Editions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition; upgrade details
- Support for the ZELDA NOTES game-specific service via Nintendo Switch App; improved frame rates and resolution; faster load times; HDR support; nintendo Account, persistent internet and compatible smart device required; data charges may apply; HDR-compatible display required when playing in TV mode
Rank #4
- Enhanced performance and visuals exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.
- Explore the skies, caves, and vast lands of Hyrule in a massive open-world adventure.
- Wield new and returning abilities to craft solutions, vehicles, and weapons.
- Discover the mystery behind the spreading gloom threatening the kingdom.
- Use the ZELDA NOTES app to share, compare, and earn daily bonuses.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
