Unveiling the Masterminds: The Development Team Behind Zelda: Ocarina of Time on Switch 2 Revealed
ByMark Rosewater
Nintendo has recently shed light on the creative forces behind the highly anticipated remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for the Switch 2, confirming that an in-house team at Nintendo was responsible for this monumental task. This revelation comes from a new "Ask the Developer" series, which offers a deep dive into the game's production and the individuals who shaped its revival.
A Classic Reimagined: The Visionaries Behind the Switch 2 Zelda Remake
The Internal Powerhouse: Nintendo EPD's Role in Ocarina of Time's Rebirth
Nintendo has officially announced that the development of the Switch 2's rendition of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time was handled internally by its Entertainment Planning & Development (EPD) Production Group No. 3. This particular team has a rich history with the Zelda franchise, having been at the helm of nearly every installment since the early 2000s, ensuring a continuity of vision and expertise for the beloved series.
Meet the Creative Leads: Shaping the Remake's Direction
The project was steered by a talented group of individuals. HokWai Ng took on his inaugural directorial role for this remake, bringing his experience from titles like Tears of the Kingdom to the forefront. Aya Shida, recognized for her work on Pikmin 3, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Tears of the Kingdom, was the artistic visionary as Art Director. Hiroki Taguchi, who previously contributed to Breath of the Wild, served as the Program Director, while Masato Ohashi, known for his contributions to Animal Crossing: New Horizons and the Splatoon 3 Expansion Pass, led the musical direction and sound design.
Upholding the Legacy: Internal Development and Producer Involvement
While some fans speculated that an external studio might be brought in for the remake, especially given its faithful adherence to the original, Nintendo opted for an internal development approach. This decision underscores the company's dedication to maintaining creative control over its flagship series. Notably, Zelda veterans Eiji Aonuma and Hidemaro Fujibayashi served as producers, lending their extensive experience and guidance to the project, ensuring the remake honored the series' esteemed legacy.
Anticipation Builds: More Developer Insights on the Horizon
With the initial two parts of the "Ask the Developer" series already released, fans can look forward to even more behind-the-scenes stories and insights. The upcoming third and fourth parts, scheduled for release soon, promise to delve deeper into the development process, offering further details and exciting revelations for the enthusiastic Zelda community. It's truly an exhilarating period for fans of the legendary franchise.
About the author
Mark Rosewater
Head designer for "Magic: The Gathering" and author of long-running insights on game design.
