Nintendo Sets Strict Rules for Ocarina of Time Midnight Launches in US

Key points

• Reservations for the New York event open at 6 p.m. ET on October 26, 2026, while San Francisco reservations open at 3 p.m. PT on the same day.
• The New York event runs from 12 a.m. to 2 a.m. ET on November 5, 2026, whereas the San Francisco event occurs from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. PT on November 4, 2026.
• Attendees must use the Warp Pass system, requiring a Nintendo network account, with a limit of one pass per person.
• Purchases of the game are limited to one per customer, and 40th Anniversary hardware items are also restricted to one of each per customer.
• A gift with purchase is available while supplies last, though the game itself is sold separately from the special edition hardware.

Background

The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake for Nintendo Switch 2 is scheduled for release on November 5, 2026. Previous coverage noted that physical pre-orders at major retailers like Amazon were discounted by $10, bringing the price to $59.88. Best Buy also hosted midnight launches for the sold-out 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console and Pro Controller, highlighting high demand for the special edition hardware. The digital file size for the game was recently compressed to 24.54GB ahead of the launch.

How outlets are covering it

Nintendo Wire emphasizes the logistical steps required for attendance, noting that reservations are necessary due to the small size of Nintendo's retail outlets. It highlights the use of the Warp Pass system and the first-come, first-served nature of the events. Nintendo's official announcement provides specific details on the reservation process, purchase limits, and the availability of 40th Anniversary hardware, including the Switch 2 console, Pro Controller, and carrying case. Both sources agree on the timing and reservation requirements but differ in emphasis, with Nintendo Wire focusing on the practical aspects of securing a spot and Nintendo detailing the specific products and restrictions.

Why it matters

These events provide a critical opportunity for fans to secure the highly sought-after 40th Anniversary hardware, which has been out of stock since its September 8 preorder launch. The strict reservation and purchase limits ensure fair access to the game and special edition items, addressing the high demand and potential scarcity issues.

What to watch

Fans should monitor the reservation process starting October 26, 2026, to secure a spot at the midnight launch events. Those unable to attend may need to rely on pre-orders or other retail options, as the 40th Anniversary hardware is strictly limited at these events.