Stores told to hold Zelda: Ocarina of Time pre-orders, risking delivery after release date

Buyers are becoming nervous about their Ocarina of Time remake pre-orders. Online retailers often dispatch new Switch 2 games several days before release dates. However, that likely won’t be the case with the latest Zelda title. Video Games Plus revealed how Nintendo instructed stores to hold shipments until November 4th.

Cutting it close

On social media, the Canadian retailer informed a customer, “Nintendo will not under any circumstances allow us to start shipping until Wednesday. Not our decision.” The timing leaves little margin for error, since the Ocarina of Time release date is November 5th.

Every store has different policies for handling orders. Video Games Plus only promises to mail physical copies on or prior to launch day. Even so, in many cases, when stock is available, customers receive tracking numbers 2-3 days in advance. This approach reduces the chances of transit delays and late deliveries.

It’s unclear if the gaming giant sent the same communication to all its partners, but shoppers are expressing concerns. After asking an agent, Redditor Nacolo claims Ocarina of Time remake pre-orders placed at the Nintendo Store may not arrive in time. Amazon patrons also report that they are still waiting for updates on their purchases.

Whether Zelda loyalists end up disappointed partly depends on their location and shipping method. With Amazon in the U.S., it’s not uncommon to see pre-orders depart warehouses a day before or even on release dates. The company has a large distribution network covering much of the country.

Ocarina leaks

By minimizing early deliveries of the Switch 2 game, Nintendo may hope to curtail further Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake leaks. On October 31st, the first pictures emerged of customers taking home already playable physical copies. Despite possible warnings, some fans began revisiting the N64 classic ahead of schedule. Soon, screenshots and videos surfaced, spoiling unannounced changes to Hyrule.

Gamers unwilling to risk disappointment can attend midnight launches or events on November 5th. Best Buy and Nintendo New York and San Francisco are among the locations celebrating the occasion.