Does Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake have Master Quest? MrCheeze datamine explained

While not part of the original N64 game, Master Quest was a hugely popular addition to Ocarina of Time when it first appeared on the GameCube.

Returning again in Ocarina of Time 3D, the mode offers a more challenging way to play, with rearranged dungeons, tougher puzzles and enemies, and even a mirrored world in the 3DS remake.

But is Master Mode in the 2026 Ocarina of Time remake? Here's what you need to know, as well as details on a recent datamine.

Master Quest is not currently available on the Ocarina of Time remake for Nintendo Switch 2.

The mode is unlocked after completing the game in the 3DS version, and having played all the way through for our review, we can confirm that no such mode exists.

That's a disappointment for many, as the mode has become the preferred way to play for many fans who enjoy a challenge, but that may not be the end of the story.

Want to see this content?

This page contains content provided by Google reCAPTCHA. We ask for your permission before anything is loaded, as Google reCAPTCHA may use cookies and other technologies. To view this content, choose 'Accept and continue' to allow Google reCAPTCHA and its required purposes.

Will Master Quest come to Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake? MrCheeze datamine explained

According to a recent Bluesky post from dataminer MrCheeze, there are several apparent references in the game's files to the existence of a Master Quest mode.

In his post, a list of strings pertaining to the rooms of Dodongo Cavern are followed by further strings concerning 'DodongoCavern_MQ,' suggesting an altered Master Quest version of Dodongo's Cavern exists in the game.

X user OatmealDome added to this, stating that Master Quest will be made unlocked as DLC, and not an update.

While the data available is incomplete, they went on to confirm that like in the 3DS version of the game, Master Mode mirrors the world and modifies dungeons, with an explicit reference to cows appearing in the Inside Jabu Jabu's Belly dungeon.

Of course, this is all just speculation, and the existence of these strings does not confirm whether Nintendo is actually planning on a full Master Quest release, what that will entail, whether it will be a free update of paid DLC or whether it will require completing the game to unlock.

But for those players who have found the recent Zelda titles to be a bit too easy, the prospect of a return for Ocarina of Time Master Quest is definitely an exciting one.

Check out more of our Gaming coverage or visit our TV Guide and Streaming Guide to find out what's on. For more TV recommendations and reviews, listen to The Radio Times Podcast.

Authors

Alex Raisbeck is a Gaming Writer at Radio Times, covering everything from AAA giants to indie gems. Alex has written for VideoGamer, GamesRadar+, PC Gamer, PCGamesN and more.