Nintendo's new Zelda: Ocarina of Time pre-order bonus disappoints Switch 2 owners

Even as its November 5th release date looms, Nintendo has announced a new Ocarina of Time remake pre-order bonus. Gamers who purchase the eShop version will receive Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary digital wallpaper. However, particularly for Switch 2 owners in the United States, it pales in comparison to extras distributed elsewhere.

On social media, the gaming giant explains that the offer expires late on November 23rd. After ordering the Zelda game, supporters should expect an email containing a My Nintendo link to download the wallpaper. The artwork will be available in various formats and screen sizes.

Opinions vary on the design, which features the same logo as the packaging for the Zelda 40th Anniversary Switch 2 console and Pro Controller. The triangular pattern meshes with various representations of characters like Link and the Princess. Still, it carries no apparent monetary value, and fans are already creating imitations based on the preview images.

Digital-exclusive Ocarina bonus

There is also no obvious way to collect the wallpaper with the physical Switch 2 game. That’s especially disheartening for U.S. gamers, where Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake pre-order bonuses are limited. At Nintendo, Amazon, and Best Buy, the only incentive is the textured foil cover.

Meanwhile, in nearby Canada, EB Games is bundling a holographic slipcover inspired by the original title. Perhaps more appealing, France’s Micromania protects the Zelda remake inside a replica of the N64 classic’s box. Loot varies by region and includes tangible trinkets like Spiritual Stones, a key chain, a tote bag, and stickers.

On the other hand, wallpaper may be the best pre-order buyers of the digital version anywhere can hope for. In the U.S., the eShop download normally costs $59.99, $10 less than the physical version. Even so, several stores have regularly discounted Ocarina of Time by the identical amount ahead of its release date.