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Why everyone wants the Zelda Switch 2 (and how to actually get one)

By The Trends Incoming team · 2026-10-14

The first special-edition Nintendo Switch 2 is here, and of course it's Zelda. Nintendo Switch 2 – The Legend of Zelda – 40th Anniversary Edition launches Thursday, October 29, 2026. In the US it's listed at $519.99.

What it is

It's a regular Switch 2 in a very special outfit. Nintendo's announcement lists a special-design system, Joy-Con 2, wrist straps and dock. Reports describe a Triforce on the dock and green-and-gold Joy-Con. Under the hood, it's the same Switch 2 as everyone else's. Same screen, same performance. And here's the bit that trips people up: it doesn't come with a game. Nintendo says so directly.

Matching accessories launch the same day: a Zelda Pro Controller ($99.99, or $109.99 bundled with a display stand) and a carrying case with screen protector.

Why it's trending

Because it sold out. Like, immediately. Pre-orders went live right after Nintendo's Zelda 40th Anniversary Direct on September 8, and fans reported the Pro Controller vanishing from Nintendo's US store within hours. Tom's Guide noted that Best Buy and Target were already sold out. A stock check on October 4 found the console marked unavailable at Nintendo's US store and several big retailers. Scarcity plus nostalgia equals a trending topic.

The timing helps too. It lands exactly one week before The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake, which hits Switch 2 on November 5 for $59.99 digital or $69.99 physical. So the console is basically the opening act for the biggest Zelda moment of the year.

The backstory

The Legend of Zelda turned 40 in 2026. Nintendo marked it with a dedicated Direct, a full remake of the 1998 N64 classic, and this hardware. A special-edition console had been rumored for weeks before the Direct. Nintendo then confirmed it, along with details the leaks hadn't covered, like the full accessory lineup.

Is it worth $20 extra?

Our honest take: if you were buying a Switch 2 anyway, yes. The standard model is $499.99, so you're paying $20 for the look, and it's a great look. If you already own a Switch 2, the Pro Controller is the cheaper way in. If you're paying scalper prices, take a breath. Nintendo restocks happen, and short drops have been spotted.

What's next

• Oct 29: launch day. Check Nintendo's store and major retailers early. Stock that does exist tends to go fast.
• Nov 5: Ocarina of Time remake launches. New features include a real jump button, free camera and humming tunes into the mic.
• After that: watch for restocks rather than paying resale markups.

Where to follow it

For official info, Nintendo's news releases and store listings are the source of truth. For restocks, the big retailers and stock trackers are your friends. For fan reactions, unboxings and setup photos, tap the hashtag links below.

Quick answers

When does the Zelda Switch 2 come out?

October 29, 2026.

How much is it?

$519.99 in the US, per Nintendo's US store listing as reported. That's $20 more than the standard Switch 2.

Does it include Ocarina of Time?

No. Nintendo says the system doesn't come with a game. Ocarina of Time launches separately on November 5 for $59.99 digital or $69.99 physical.

Is there a matching controller?

Yes. A Zelda Pro Controller is $99.99, or $109.99 with a display stand, also out October 29.

Follow it

The trend card

Sources

• Nintendo news release
• Nintendo Life
• The Ruling Desk price comparison
• Tom's Guide stock tracker
• Gematsu on Ocarina

By The Trends Incoming team · Fact-checked 2026-10-14. Dates change, so double-check with the official source.