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Ocarina remake’s new art style was needed because something ‘expected’ would have had less impact, Aonuma says
Eiji Aonuma says the new art style for the Ocarina of Time remake was chosen to suit the game and make a stronger impression. He argues that using an expected style could miss an opportunity to surprise players.
Aonuma said Zelda games often change visual direction, while connected titles such as Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom share a style. He understands that players may initially be taken aback, as the development team also needs time to adjust before seeing why a style fits. The Switch 2 remake was released on the day of the interview and received strong reviews for refining the original rather than overhauling it.
In short
- Aonuma says the remake’s art style was chosen for the game’s identity.
- He believes an unexpected look can leave a stronger impression.
- The team also needs time to adjust to new visual directions.
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The case for
A distinct art style can help a remake feel like a considered new interpretation rather than a predictable update, while giving the game a stronger identity. Aonuma’s point that Zelda’s visual direction often changes also supports treating each game’s style as a way to suit its particular world and mood.
The case against
A familiar style could help players recognise the remake’s connection to the original and make its updated presentation feel more faithful. A bolder visual change may initially unsettle some players, and could seem less appropriate if it distracts from the qualities they value in the original.
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