Zelda Ocarina remake gets UK midnight launch at London Argos

Nintendo is reviving a classic retail tradition for its Switch 2 remake of The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time, hosting a midnight launch party in London. According to Metro ^[1], the event is taking place on Wednesday, November 4, at the Argos store on Tottenham Court Road. This marks a rare instance of a physical launch event, appealing to the nostalgia of older gamers who remember the excitement of being among the first to buy a new title. The retailer has confirmed this is the only location in the UK hosting the celebration, creating an exclusive atmosphere for dedicated fans.

The store, which functions as a temporary Nintendo pop-up, will prioritise the Zelda franchise during the event. However, shoppers can also browse merchandise for other major Nintendo titles, including Super Mario, Pokémon, and Animal Crossing. Given the store's limited size, Metro advises arriving early to avoid overcrowding and secure any available stock. The location is accessible via Tottenham Court Road Station or a short walk from Goodge Street Station on the Northern line.

A key draw for attendees is the exclusive pre-order bonus available only at this launch. The most significant item is a replica of the original black and gold Nintendo 64 box, designed to store the physical copy of the game. This packaging was previously feared to be exclusive to the French market. Additionally, buyers will receive a free keyring shaped like the titular ocarina. While this keyring is too small to play music, it serves as a charming nod to the game's central mechanic.

The Nintendo Store opened in April and occupies roughly half of the Argos floor space, featuring rare merchandise unavailable elsewhere in the UK. Although officially a pop-up, Nintendo has not confirmed a closing date, leading to hopes for a permanent presence. This comes as London is set to receive a permanent Pokémon store in 2029, signalling a growing commitment to the capital. For those eager to experience the Switch 2 version of the 1998 classic, this London event offers the closest approximation to the launch parties of the past.