Nintendo is preparing two Direct broadcasts focused on The Legend of Zelda's 40th anniversary and upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 games, with predictions pointing to a major Ocarina of Time remake and new hardware editions
Nintendo's September Directs are poised to deliver a rare double punch: a dedicated The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct on 8 September, immediately followed by a general Nintendo Direct on 9 September. The most significant expectation centres on a full remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, with a predicted release date of 12 November and a likely focus on Nintendo Switch 2 as the lead platform. This would mark the first time Ocarina of Time receives a ground-up reimagining for modern hardware, rather than a remaster or port.
Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct
The anniversary broadcast is expected to go beyond a single game. Alongside the Ocarina of Time remake, predictions include new amiibo figures, a special edition Nintendo Switch 2 console, and a themed Pro Controller. There is also speculation about casting news for the upcoming Zelda movie, with the possibility of a first trailer if production has advanced far enough. Nintendo may also introduce a Zelda Challenge mode, following the recent Donkey Kong Challenge, and could add The Legend of Zelda: Twilight Princess to Nintendo Switch Online's retro library.
Multiplayer Zelda is another area of interest. A "Zelda 99" battle royale concept or a re-release of the Four Swords games has been suggested, though there is no official confirmation. The next mainline Zelda entry is not expected to be revealed at this stage, with Nintendo likely to focus on remakes and anniversary content rather than a full sequel announcement. One outlier prediction is the release of an 8-bit prototype of Breath of the Wild, which would be a notable archival gesture if realised.
General Nintendo Direct Predictions
The broader Nintendo Direct is set to cover a range of first- and third-party titles for both current and next-generation hardware. Updates are anticipated for Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave, Nintendo Switch Sports Resort, Pokémon Pokopia downloadable content, and Xenoblade Genesis. There is also the possibility of a release date for FromSoftware's The Duskbloods, which would be a significant addition to the Switch 2's launch window if confirmed. A new 2D Metroid game, reportedly titled Metroid Ravenous, may be announced, continuing Nintendo's recent trend of alternating between 2D and 3D Metroid releases.
The finale of the Direct could feature a major franchise update, with speculation split between a Super Smash Bros. Ultimate - Nintendo Switch 2 Edition and the reveal of a new 3D Super Mario game. Both would serve as headline acts for the Switch 2's first year, but Nintendo's history suggests only one will be given centre stage in a single broadcast. Hardware announcements are expected to be tightly integrated with software reveals, reinforcing the platform's transition to its next generation.
Release Timing and Hardware Focus
According to IGN's Logan Plant, the Ocarina of Time remake is predicted for release on 12 November, positioning it as a flagship title for the holiday season. The timing aligns with Nintendo's established pattern of launching major Zelda projects in the final quarter of the year. The anticipated special edition Nintendo Switch 2 console and Pro Controller would likely launch alongside the game, offering collectors and new adopters a themed hardware bundle. Amiibo releases are expected to coincide, capitalising on the franchise's enduring popularity.
Other titles mentioned, such as Fire Emblem: Fortune's Weave and Xenoblade Genesis, are expected to receive updated trailers or release windows, but concrete launch dates remain unconfirmed. The inclusion of Pokémon Pokopia DLC and Metroid Ravenous would further diversify the Switch 2's early software line-up, though neither has been officially announced. Nintendo's approach mirrors the strategy seen in recent PlayStation showcases, where hardware and software reveals are closely coordinated to maximise impact.
What Remains Uncertain
Despite the volume of predictions, several key details remain unverified. The Ocarina of Time remake has not been officially announced, and its release date is based on informed speculation rather than direct confirmation. The existence of a Zelda 99 battle royale or a Four Swords re-release is similarly unproven. While a Zelda movie update is plausible, the timing of a trailer or casting news depends on the film's production schedule, which has not been publicly detailed. The next mainline Zelda game is not expected to appear, and any mention of an 8-bit Breath of the Wild prototype should be treated as a long-shot wish rather than a credible leak.
Hardware specifics for Nintendo Switch 2, including technical specifications, price, and launch date, have not been disclosed by Nintendo. The structure of the Directs suggests a focus on cross-generation support, but it is unclear how many of the announced games will be exclusive to the new hardware. Until Nintendo provides official confirmation, all predictions should be viewed as provisional, even when they align with established franchise patterns.
Remakes and anniversary editions have become a central part of Nintendo's strategy for maintaining interest in legacy franchises. A remake differs from a remaster by rebuilding the game's assets, mechanics, and often its engine for modern hardware, rather than simply enhancing resolution or performance. This approach allows classic titles like Ocarina of Time to reach new audiences while preserving their core identity, but it also raises expectations for technical improvements and quality-of-life features that match contemporary standards. Players should be aware that until official footage or hands-on impressions are available, the final experience may differ from early predictions.
