Nintendo unveils first special edition Switch 2: The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Edition for $520

The limited-edition console marks the 12th piece of Zelda-themed hardware Nintendo has released, spanning handheld and home systems since the Game Boy Advance SP in 2004. The Switch 2 tablet itself remains largely black, with gold triangles on the back, while the Joy-Cons sport a green design with a Triforce symbol on the left. The dock is finished in a two-tone gold and black with a prominent Triforce motif on the front and hidden easter eggs on the back. The packaging is said to feature textured foil cover art.

The announcement came during a Nintendo Direct that also showcased an upcoming remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. The Switch 2 launched earlier this year, and this is its first limited-edition hardware variant, arriving later than the original Switch's first special edition (a Monster Hunter XX pack).

Alongside the console, Nintendo is selling a themed Pro Controller for $99.99 and a carrying case with screen protector. Pre-orders are available directly from Nintendo and through retailers such as Best Buy.

Why This Matters

This is the first special edition Switch 2, signaling Nintendo's strategy to drive hardware sales through coveted collector's items.
The $520 price point, exclusive design, and tie-in with a major Ocarina of Time remake could trigger strong demand and potential stock shortages.
The anniversary edition reinforces the enduring commercial power of the Zelda franchise, now 40 years old.

Background

Nintendo has a long history of releasing limited-edition consoles tied to major game franchises, with Zelda-themed hardware dating back to the Game Boy Advance SP in 2004. The Switch 2 launched in 2026, and this is its first limited-edition variant. The accompanying Ocarina of Time remake is a key title for the new platform, expected to drive adoption.

Key Perspectives

Nintendo: The company is leveraging its most beloved franchise to create a premium, collectible product that appeals to both new buyers and existing owners looking for a second console. Collectors and fans: The design—green Joy-Cons, gold dock, and easter eggs—targets dedicated Zelda enthusiasts. The lack of an included game may be a minor disappointment, but the hardware itself is the draw. Critics/Skeptics: The $520 price is $70 above the standard Switch 2, and the console does not include a game. For casual buyers, the value may be questionable compared to the base model.

What to Watch

Pre-order sell-out times and secondary market prices for the edition.
Whether Nintendo releases additional special editions for other franchises (e.g., Mario, Splatoon) later in the Switch 2 lifecycle.
The reception of the Ocarina of Time remake, which could further boost demand for the themed hardware.

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