Nintendo has officially given fans a comprehensive look at what to expect for the monumental 40th anniversary of its legendary fantasy franchise, announcing a specialized hardware release alongside one of its most anticipated upcoming titles. Following a somewhat muted initial reveal earlier in the year, the company offered a much clearer showcase of the upcoming remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time during a recent broadcast presentation. Alongside the software details, Nintendo confirmed that it will release a dedicated, limited-edition hardware colorway for its newer hardware generation, celebrating four decades of exploration, puzzles, and heroic quests in the Kingdom of Hyrule.
The upcoming collector’s hardware package centers on a specially themed Nintendo Switch 2 system, which is scheduled to hit store shelves globally on October 29. This launch date positions the special console precisely one week ahead of the eagerly awaited arrival of the Ocarina of Time remake, which is set to debut on November 5.
Unlike previous hardware iterations that relied on a single, uniform hue—such as the all-gold design that accompanied the release of The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom system variant for the older Switch Lite hardware line in 2024—Nintendo has opted for a sophisticated dual-tone approach for this milestone anniversary. The new aesthetic combines a striking metallic green with rich gold accents, creating an appearance that bridges classic franchise imagery with modern manufacturing techniques.
According to promotional teaser footage released by the manufacturer, the new colorway utilizes specially coated Joy-Con 2 controllers designed to catch and reflect ambient light. The effect is intended to be both subtle and visually striking, giving the hardware a premium finish that stands out from standard consumer models. Beyond the base color scheme, the controllers incorporate several subtle historical nods for longtime enthusiasts of the series.
On the front of the left Joy-Con controller, users will find a detailed, classic-style sprite of Link, rendered as he appeared in the foundational 1986 original title, The Legend of Zelda, proudly holding aloft the iconic Triforce. Meanwhile, the reverse side of the right Joy-Con features a matching retro-style sprite of Princess Zelda herself, tying together the dual protagonists who have defined the franchise across generations. The accompanying console dock follows a similarly restrained yet thematic design philosophy, featuring a matte black finish accented with gold highlights, anchored by a large, prominent Triforce motif as its central visual centerpiece.
Despite the comprehensive thematic treatment given to the console, hardware bundle purists may note one notable omission. The commemorative Switch 2 system does not include a bundled copy of the Ocarina of Time remake. Players who wish to experience the rebuilt classic on the new hardware will need to purchase the software as a separate transaction when it launches in early November.
To complement the console release, Nintendo has also prepared a curated selection of matching accessories designed to tie into the 40th-anniversary theme. This secondary product line includes a dedicated themed carrying case complete with an integrated screen protector, a specialized Switch 2 Pro controller featuring matching design flourishes, and a custom stand designed to hold the gamepad when not in use.
All of these commemorative accessories are scheduled to launch simultaneously with the console on October 29. Like many of Nintendo’s historical limited-edition hardware releases, these items will be available strictly while supplies last. Industry observers and retail analysts anticipate fierce competition among collectors and fans eager to secure the console and its matching peripheral lineup, suggesting that availability may become constrained shortly after launch.
