Switch 2 graphics surprise rivals with Ocarina of Time remake

A recent reader assessment of the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Zelda: Ocarina of Time suggests the handheld console performs well beyond initial hardware projections. The writer, who has completed the game, reported that the visual fidelity exceeded their expectations for the device.

Nintendo released the title in November, a month typically avoided for major game launches. The move appears to have paid off in terms of critical reception and sales. The reviewer noted that while the original game is nearly 30 years old, the remake retains a level of enjoyment that few contemporary titles achieve.

The core argument of the report is that Nintendo did not alter the fundamental game design. The writer states that the mechanics and structure remain virtually identical to the 1998 original. Despite this lack of structural change, the reviewer described the experience as the most cinematic from the company to date.

The visual performance is the primary point of contention. The writer compares the game's aesthetics to Grand Theft Auto VI, which runs on the more powerful PlayStation 5. While GTA VI features a realistic modern setting, Ocarina of Time presents a fantasy world that the reviewer described as nearly photorealistic in the remake.

Specific scenes were cited as evidence of the hardware's capability. The opening sequence involving Link's dream and the Great Deku Tree, along with the graveyard scenes featuring rain and lightning, were identified as standout visual moments. The writer noted that these sequences use the same camera angles and design as the N64 version.

Contrary to pre-release speculation, Hyrule Field was not expanded. The area remains small by modern standards, particularly when compared to Breath of the Wild. However, the reviewer found the space beautiful and fun to explore, noting that the fixed camera angles required changes to Castle Town but left the rest of the map intact.

The report contrasts Nintendo's strategy with that of Sony and Microsoft. Those competitors typically launch new consoles with graphic demos and titles that emphasize visual spectacle. Nintendo, conversely, has released games with moderate graphical demands, including Mario Kart World. This approach makes the visual quality of Ocarina of Time more striking to observers.

The writer compares the title to Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, another Switch 2 release. They describe the Fire Emblem visuals as resembling GameCube-era graphics in comparison to the clarity of Zelda. This contrast supports the claim that the Switch 2 is capable of high-fidelity rendering when applied to a specific art style.

Other upcoming titles, such as Star Fox and a trailer for Pokémon Winds and Waves, were mentioned as promising indicators for the console's graphical future. The reviewer concludes that Ocarina of Time is at least the second best looking game of the year, a position secured by its blend of dated design and modern rendering.

The article is a reader feature submitted to the publication. It does not represent the official view of the outlet. The writer, identified as Xane, invites others to submit their own 500 to 600 word features for potential publication in weekend slots.