Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 and Ocarina Remake Face Severe Stock Shortages Ahead of November Launch

3 min read
Source: Tom's Guide
Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 and Ocarina Remake Face Severe Stock Shortages Ahead of November Launch
Photo: Tom's Guide
TL;DR

Pre-orders for the Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 and its matching Pro Controller have largely sold out across major retailers, though Walmart has intermittent stock. The console, priced at $520, features a black-and-gold design with Triforce branding and includes standard Switch 2 hardware. The game itself, a remake of Ocarina of Time, launches November 5, 2026, and is currently available for preorder at a discounted price of $59.88 at Walmart. Best Buy has announced late-night store openings on November 5 for in-store pickups and limited walk-in sales, while other retailers remain sold out.

Key points

  • The Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 costs $520 and includes a matching Pro Controller for $100; both are frequently sold out.
  • Walmart has intermittent stock of the console and offers a price guarantee, while Best Buy is hosting late-night store openings on November 5 for limited in-stock sales.
  • The Ocarina of Time remake for Switch 2 releases November 5, 2026, and is currently available for preorder at $59.88 at Walmart, $10 less than the standard physical price.
  • The console features a black-and-gold design with Triforce artwork on the dock and Joy-Cons, but contains the same upgraded hardware as the standard Switch 2.
  • A Young Zelda amiibo, based on Ocarina of Time, is set to release in 2027 and is currently sold out.

Background

Leaks in August 2026 first revealed the limited-edition console, which was officially confirmed during Nintendo’s Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct on September 8, 2026. The same event announced the Ocarina of Time remake, highlighting new features like Link’s jump ability and real-time day-night cycles. This follows a trend of anniversary hardware releases, such as the Xbox 25th Anniversary controller announced in August 2026.

How outlets are covering it

Tom’s Guide highlights Walmart’s current stock availability for the console and controller, emphasizing the urgency to pre-order. CNET provides a broader retail landscape, noting that while the Nintendo Store and Amazon are sold out, Best Buy is offering a final chance to secure the console via late-night store openings on November 5, with no rain checks for those who miss out. The Verge focuses on the game itself, pointing out that Walmart is offering the physical Ocarina of Time remake for $10 less than other retailers, making it a more accessible entry point for fans unable to secure the console. CNET also notes that Walmart Plus members may have early access to restocks, a strategy not confirmed by Nintendo but observed in previous console launches.

Why it matters

The Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition Switch 2 and Ocarina of Time remake represent a significant milestone for Nintendo, combining a major hardware anniversary with a highly anticipated game remake. The severe stock shortages and aggressive retail strategies, such as Best Buy’s late-night openings, indicate high consumer demand and the potential for the console to become a collector’s item. For fans, the availability of the game at a discounted price offers an alternative to the console, while the upcoming amiibo and live-action movie in 2027 suggest a sustained focus on the Zelda franchise.

What to watch

Best Buy’s late-night store openings on November 5 will be the final opportunity for many to secure the console in-store. Retailers like Amazon and Walmart may restock inventory around Black Friday, though this is not confirmed. The Young Zelda amiibo is expected to release in 2027, and the live-action Zelda movie is also slated for 2027. Consumers should monitor retailer websites and sign up for email alerts to catch any restocks.

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