Michael JohnsonThe Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Nintendo Switch 2, released on November 5, 2026, received version 1.1.1 the day before launch. Nintendo says the patch became available on November 4, adds support for ZELDA NOTES, and is required for the game’s online features. Players who want to use these features should install the update.
What’s changed in the Switch 2 version
Nintendo describes the release as an updated version of the classic adventure, with revamped graphics, orchestral music, voiced scenes, and expanded cutscenes. The company also lists jumping and dashing, improved controls, and a modern camera. The game is exclusive to Switch 2. Nintendo’s US store lists handheld, tabletop, and TV modes, as well as HDR and VRR on compatible TVs.
The control changes affect movement and exploration of the game world: Nintendo has added jumping and dashing, along with modern camera controls. For players who remember the original, this is a new version of a familiar adventure; Nintendo presents it as an entry point to the series for newcomers.
What patch 1.1.1 adds
Nintendo’s support page dates the release of version 1.1.1 to November 4. The company’s notes list ZELDA NOTES support and say that several issues were fixed to improve gameplay. Nintendo does not provide a detailed list of fixes.
The update is required for the game’s online features. Nintendo also says that save data remains available after installing the patch. To check the version and update, select the game in the HOME Menu, press “+” or “−,” then choose to update via the internet. Nintendo says the download happens automatically if the console is connected to the internet and automatic software updates are enabled.
ZELDA NOTES requires a smartphone and internet access
ZELDA NOTES is a feature in the Nintendo Switch app for compatible smartphones. On the game’s page, Nintendo describes daily achievements, locating in-game places using images, and the option to play the ocarina on a smartphone. Use requires a Nintendo Account, a compatible smart device, and a persistent internet connection; some features require a separate Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Players who want to use ZELDA NOTES and online features should update the game, connect the console to the internet, and follow the setup prompts at launch. Nintendo does not separately say that a subscription is needed to play the single-player game; the Nintendo Switch Online requirement applies to specific features.
What to check before downloading
The game is for Switch 2 only. Nintendo’s US store lists supported languages, including Russian, and HDR and VRR support on compatible TVs. The download size is not confirmed on the supplied game page, so it should not be used as a guide when checking available storage.
You can play the ocarina with buttons, or try humming melodies or playing them on an instrument through the Switch 2 microphone. Nintendo describes this as an additional input method; standard button controls are also available. ZELDA NOTES features depend on the app on a compatible smartphone and an internet connection.
For the first launch, it is important to distinguish the game itself from the update: the release offers revamped graphics, new control features, and voiced scenes, while version 1.1.1 adds ZELDA NOTES support and is required for online features. Installing the patch is a specific step for players who want the game’s online capabilities.
