Reviews for Nintendo’s The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time Remake arrived ahead of its release tomorrow, with the game earning a Metascore of 96 from 48 reviews. None of those reviews scored it below 8, making it 2026’s highest-rated game at the time of writing, according to the review roundup.
The remake is described as closely following the 1998 Nintendo 64 original while adding quality-of-life changes, including running, motion-control aiming and button-activated jumps. Hyrule Castle Town can also be explored. Reviewers say the additions leave the original’s core design intact.
Several outlets praised the remake’s presentation and faithfulness. Eurogamer called the original and remake masterpieces, while The Guardian described the updated game as “a dream come true.” Game Informer praised it as a recreation of the 1998 experience with improvements across many elements. Reviewers also described the visuals as “gorgeous,” “breathtaking” and “beautiful.”
The expanded camera controls and active jumping were highlighted as some of the most substantial changes. Reviewers said the camera makes it possible to take a closer look at upgraded environments, while jumping makes exploration feel more interactive. The latter can also make some encounters less challenging.
Reviews also noted that the remake preserves the adventure’s sense of discovery, its secrets and its emotional use of time. The updated cinematic presentation was said to give added weight to moments in the story, including Link’s return to familiar places as an adult. One criticism cited in the roundup was RPG Site’s objection to the game having only one save slot.
Kotaku said it did not receive a review copy and would review the game after release.
Sources: Kotaku.