The Legend of Zelda May Not Get a New Game for Nintendo Switch 2 in 2026, But Don’t Count It Out Quite Yet

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The Legend of Zelda is a hugely popular and well-known video game series, and it’s constantly reinventing itself in exciting ways. Over the past four decades, games like Wind Waker and Breath of the Wild have shown just how versatile the series can be. With the 40th anniversary just around the corner, fans are anticipating some big news and surprises!

It’s probably not likely we’ll see a brand new Legend of Zelda game next year. Echoes of Wisdom just came out in 2024, and Hyrule Warriors: Age of Imprisonment was released this year too. Nintendo might be waiting a while before announcing the next Zelda adventure, since those games are still new for many players. However, anything is possible, especially with the 40th anniversary coming up. Even if a new game isn’t announced soon, fans should still watch for celebrations and possible announcements surrounding The Legend of Zelda‘s 40th anniversary – it’s a great time for big news.

The Legend of Zelda’s 40th Anniversary is Right Around the Corner

When is The Legend of Zelda’s 40th Anniversary?

  • The Legend of Zelda officially turns 40 on February 21, 2026.

The original Legend of Zelda game first appeared in Japan in 1986, and quickly gained popularity when it came to America in August 1987. Since then, numerous sequels and related games have been released, making it a cornerstone of the Nintendo experience. As one of Nintendo’s most beloved series, a Zelda game has been available on every Nintendo console since the very beginning. Nintendo has consistently released new games, updated versions, and remasters to keep the franchise thriving. With the launch of the Switch 2, fans are excited to see what Nintendo has planned for the future of The Legend of Zelda on the new system.

How Nintendo Has Celebrated The Legend of Zelda’s Anniversary in the Past

Nintendo likes to celebrate anniversaries with events throughout the year, rather than one big celebration. They often release special concerts or merchandise when a popular game series reaches a milestone. Looking back at how Nintendo has celebrated past anniversaries for The Legend of Zelda might give us a clue about what to expect for its 40th anniversary.

The Legend of Zelda’s 25th Anniversary

  • Skyward Sword was released on November 18, 2011, for the Wii.
  • Special edition 25th anniversary Nintendo 3DS
  • Link’s Awakening DX for the Nintendo 3DS
  • Ocarina of Time 3D for the Nintendo 3DS
  • Four Swords Anniversary Edition for the Nintendo DSi and 3DS
  • 25th anniversary Club Nintendo posters
  • A five-page Skyward Sword comic
  • A special opening tribute at E3 2011 celebrating the franchise’s legacy.
  • The Legend of Zelda Symphony’s worldwide concert tour
  • Official 25th anniversary website
  • A flash mob of cosplayers was organized for Gamescom 2011. Fans dressed as their favorite characters from the franchise.
  • A “25 Years of…” video series that chronicled the best aspects of the franchise

The Legend of Zelda’s 30th Anniversary

  • The Legend of Zelda: Arts & Artifacts was first released in Japan as Hyrule Graphics on August 26, 2016. The book contains 30 years of art, including rare concept art and character designs.
  • Skyward Sword was released on September 1, 2016, for the Wii U
  • The Legend of Zelda 30th anniversary amiibos
  • At E3 2016, the first gameplay trailer for Breath of the Wild was revealed.
  • The 30th Anniversary The Legend of Zelda Game Music Collection, a Japan-exclusive CD
  • Special 30th anniversary concerts in Japan
  • Special Nintendo 3DS home menu

For many people, The Legend of Zelda is more than just a game—it’s a cherished part of their childhood.

The Legend of Zelda Could Have Several Surprises in Store for 2026

Image via Nintendo

While a brand new game might not come out next year, we could still see a trailer. Many fans are also hoping Nintendo will finally release updated versions of two popular games, Wind Waker HD and Twilight Princess HD, for the Switch. With Nintendo working on a new console, excitement for these remasters on the Switch 2 is building.

It’s impossible to say for certain, but with consistent fan requests and ongoing rumors, the 40th anniversary seems like the perfect time to release the ports fans have been waiting for. We might also finally see the first trailer for The Legend of Zelda movie. After Miyamoto recently shared initial images from the set, a trailer would be the natural next reveal.

The live-action Legend of Zelda movie is slated to hit theaters on May 7, 2027.

A LEGO set based on The Legend of Zelda is expected next year, possibly signaling that Nintendo is preparing special merchandise to mark the game’s anniversary. While it’s still unknown what Nintendo has in store for The Legend of Zelda in 2026, history suggests they’ll have several exciting plans to celebrate the 40th anniversary of this incredibly popular franchise.

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2025-12-22 21:04