GoKawiilGoogle search adds 1998-style Easter egg ahead of Zelda remaster launch
Searching 'Zelda' or 'Ocarina of Time' on Google now reveals an animated Master Sword icon that, when clicked, transforms the results page into a retro 1998-style layout with old Google branding. The throwback page shows a curated list of seven links, including Nintendo's official Zelda site, Wikipedia, and Amazon listings, rather than live search results. The feature works on both desktop and mobile and coincides with the upcoming release of the Ocarina of Time remaster.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The timing suggests Google is using nostalgia marketing to tie its own 1998 founding year to the original Nintendo 64 game's release, aligning its brand history with a beloved cultural touchstone. Such Easter eggs can drive engagement and goodwill around a major gaming release without Google needing a formal partnership announcement.
- Searching 'Zelda' or 'Ocarina of Time' triggers a clickable animated Master Sword in Google results.
- Clicking it reverts the page to a 1998-style Google interface with seven curated links.
- The feature coincides with the release of the Ocarina of Time remaster and Google's own 1998 founding year.
Nintendo Switch Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time 3D — Relive the 1998 classic that Google's Easter egg is celebrating by playing Ocarina of Time yourself. It's the perfect companion to that nostalgic search trip, letting you actually explore Hyrule instead of just watching an animation.
See Nintendo Switch Legend of Zelda Ocarina of Time 3D on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: arstechnica.com, 2026-11-02
Published there as: “Google's Legend of Zelda Easter egg transports you back to 1998”
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