Zelda 40th Anniversary Merchandise: Direct News & Buying Tips

What Was Announced at the Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct?

The Direct opened with a nostalgic montage spanning four decades of Hyrule, then dropped major news: a brand-new 2D Zelda title, 'The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past,' is coming to Switch in 2027. Additionally, Nintendo confirmed a remastered collection of 'The Legend of Zelda: Oracle of Seasons' and 'Oracle of Ages' for the Switch, with enhanced graphics and quality-of-life improvements.

But the surprises didn’t stop there. A new 'Breath of the Wild' sequel teaser hinted at a darker storyline, and a special 'Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition' Switch console was unveiled, featuring gold Joy-Cons with the Triforce emblem and a custom dock. The Direct also showcased a lineup of exclusive merchandise, including amiibo figures, an art book, and a limited-edition soundtrack.

Is There a New Zelda Game Coming Out?

Yes! The big announcement was 'The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of the Past,' a brand-new 2D adventure that pays homage to the classic top-down games. It’s slated for release in spring 2027, and a playable demo is expected to drop on the eShop later this year. For those who prefer 3D, the 'Breath of the Wild' sequel teaser (tentatively titled 'Tears of the Kingdom: The Lost Chapters') has fans buzzing, though no release date was given.

If you’re new to the series, the Direct also highlighted 'The Legend of Zelda: Link’s Awakening' as a great entry point, and it’s currently available on Switch. For returning fans, the Oracle remasters offer a nostalgic trip, but they won’t release until early 2027.

Will There Be a Zelda Remaster for Switch?

Yes, the Oracle remasters are coming to Switch, but that’s not all. Nintendo also confirmed that 'The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD' will receive a free update adding new amiibo features. While a full 'Ocarina of Time' or 'Majora’s Mask' remaster wasn’t announced, the Direct teased that more classic titles would be added to the Switch Online Expansion Pack, including 'The Minish Cap' and 'Four Swords Adventures.'

For collectors, the limited 'Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition' Switch is a must-have, but it’s expected to sell out fast. If you miss out, don’t worry—our buying guide has tips on where to find restocks and alternative options.

What Zelda Merchandise Is Available for the Anniversary?

Nintendo dropped a massive lineup of Zelda 40th anniversary merchandise, and it’s already causing a frenzy. Highlights include a set of three new amiibo (Link, Zelda, and Ganon) in gold finish, a beautifully illustrated art book titled 'The Legend of Zelda: A Visual History – 40 Years of Hyrule,' and a 6-CD soundtrack collection featuring music from every game. There’s also a series of collectible pins, posters, and a special Triforce-themed watch.

Most items are available for pre-order now, but limited editions like the art book and soundtrack are exclusive to the Nintendo Store and select retailers. If you’re looking to buy, act fast—these are expected to sell out quickly. For a comprehensive list of where to find each item, check out our buying guide.

When Is the Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct and How to Watch?

The Direct aired on September 8, 2026, at 9 AM ET, but if you missed it, you can watch the full replay on Nintendo’s official YouTube channel. The presentation ran for about 40 minutes and covered everything from game announcements to merchandise reveals. For those who want a quick recap, many gaming outlets have posted highlights, but nothing beats watching the original.

If you’re new to following Directs, they’re typically live-streamed on Nintendo’s website and social media channels. For future updates, keep an eye on Nintendo’s news page. And if you’re ready to start shopping, our guide will help you navigate the release schedule.

Best Zelda Games for Beginners and Returning Fans

If the anniversary has inspired you to dive into the series, you might be wondering where to start. For beginners, 'The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild' is a masterpiece that offers a vast open world and intuitive gameplay, but it can be overwhelming. 'Link’s Awakening' is a shorter, more linear adventure that’s perfect for newcomers, while 'The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past' (available on Switch Online) is a classic that still holds up.

Returning fans might prefer the challenge of 'Majora’s Mask' or the epic scope of 'Tears of the Kingdom.' The Oracle remasters are also a great choice for those who missed them on Game Boy. No matter your experience level, there’s a Zelda game for you—and our buying guide breaks down the best options for every type of player.

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Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct: All the News, Trailers & Merchandise You Need to Know

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