Nintendo is looking to bridge the gap between virtual adventure and tactile performance with its latest accessory for the upcoming Switch 2 remake of Ocarina of Time. HORI has officially opened pre-orders for an electronic Ocarina, priced at $49.99 (¥7,980), designed to interact directly with the game's new sound recognition mechanics. Instead of relying on traditional button combinations to perform iconic melodies, players can now use this dedicated peripheral to hum or play tunes directly into the console's microphone, triggering in-game actions with authentic musical input.
Unlike traditional clay or ceramic instruments that rely on breath control, this unit is fully electronic. It functions as a specialized controller that simplifies the musical puzzles that defined the original Nintendo 64 experience. The device offers two distinct modes: Free Play allows users to practice notes and experiment with melodies at their own pace, while Auto-Play provides a shortcut for the 12 essential songs from the game, playable at the simple touch of a button. For those concerned about audio output, the accessory features a built-in speaker, a headphone jack for private practice, and a volume dial to ensure the sound levels remain balanced during gameplay.
Availability and Ecosystem Integration
The Ocarina of Time remake launches exclusively for the Switch 2 on November 5. Physical copies will retail for $69.99 (£58.99), while the digital download is priced at $59.99 (£49.99). It is important to note that this remake is built specifically for the new hardware, with no support for the original Switch or the Switch Lite. For collectors, the initial physical print run will arrive in special textured foil packaging, though Nintendo has opted against including pre-order bonuses or a dedicated collector’s edition.
To coincide with the game launch, Nintendo is also releasing a Zelda 40th Anniversary edition of the Switch 2 console on October 29 for $519.99 (£434.99). A themed Pro Controller will also be available for $99.99, or $109.99 when bundled with a display stand. While these hardware pieces celebrate the franchise's history, they do not include a copy of the game, requiring players to purchase the software separately.
A Future for Traditionalists?
While the electronic HORI model (coded NSX-261) provides a user-friendly entry point for casual players, Nintendo has hinted at a more traditional alternative. During the anniversary presentation, the company teased a second, non-electronic, playable Ocarina instrument. As of now, Nintendo has not disclosed pricing or a release date for this genuine musical version. For fans in Europe, the HORI electronic model is expected to arrive on November 27, though pre-order windows for that region remain closed for the time being.
