The titans in gaming will clash this November 2026. Okay, that was a bit dramatic, because honestly, we are looking at two different audiences here; however, there have been lots of debate online as to which of the two is the “superior” release. The question in itself is quite silly, but it is interesting from a social phenomenon standpoint. While GTA 6 is basically guaranteed to sell more units and win more awards, I firmly believe that The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake is the more culturally significant release.
It surprised me to learn that the Grand Theft Auto franchise launched in 1997, not too far from the original Ocarina of Time’s release a year later. The first GTA actually received mix reviews (a 7.2 User Rating on Metacritic); however, it still was considered a commercial success, selling about one million units in a year. Ocarina of Time sold approximately 7.5 million units.
Over time, GTA gained traction and transformed more into the type of game that leaves many gamers foaming at the mouth. The turning point really occurred when Rockstar released Grand Theft Auto 3 and pioneered modern open-world gameplay. Things ran smoother, and players enjoyed the little odds and ends to involve yourself in at your own pace. With each additional iteration, Rockstar pulls off blockbuster hit and hit because they only deepened their existing (and winning) formula. They didn’t shake things up. They only made things look better, feel better, and play better. While I’m not personally a fan of the GTA franchise, I understand and respect where the popularity comes from. Lastly, it also appeals to the masses, allowing players to really live in the world of GTA via their character, role-play, if you will, in a rough and tumble gangster-like lifestyle that is frowned upon in the real world. Grand Theft Auto is pitched as the cool, bad-ass game, and the antithesis of the nerdy gamer label. Now, we are seeing record hype for the release of Grand Theft Auto VI. You cannot deny its power when the trailer premiered on Netflix. Millions viewed the trailer and pre-orders spiked over 500%.
Let’s pivot to The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time (2026). It is a remake of the genre-defining title that set the precedent for all 3D games that came after. The title has contributed so much to the industry’s earlier years. Not only did they introduce Z-targeting, but they also brought us context sensitive buttons among other things. As the franchise evolved, Nintendo experimented (in the way they only know how) with art style and gameplay. It’s a healthy way to experiment and keep things fresh, but all entries weren’t always welcome with open arms and/or sold as much as Nintendo hoped. In the last ten years, Nintendo recaptured the hearts of both old and new fans with the Wilds era Zelda games: Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom, but the next task is more daunting — bringing back the classic, linear Zelda experience.
So, back to the topic. I am confident that Grand Theft Auto VI will break the internet. It will smash sales records and create a whole generation of reclusive gamers who will retreat to their basements to drive around and commit some violent crimes. The game will win ALL the game awards; however, does that mean it is the better game? Does this translate as the most culturally significant game release?
I believe that these things—sales and “popularity” vs. impactful art—are not the same. Hence my analogy—everybody (that eats meat) loves cheeseburgers. They appeal to the masses. They are satisfying although not the healthiest meal option. The elevated filet mignon is not for everyone, and they don’t sell in quantities of the “cheaper” burger, but the filet is high quality. It is considered the superior cut of meat. When you celebrate an important milestone or want to impress someone, you get them a filet mignon at a fine dining restaurant, not a cheeseburger at a fast food restaurant.
Don’t get me wrong. Grand Theft Auto as a franchise and its next installment is undeniably significant. It carries its weight, and it’s not all bad. The graphics and gameplay are impressive! My argument leans more on how heavy hitting Ocarina of Time is. The scant notes of Saria’s song woke up entire generation of Millennials like a sleeper agent. Nintendo is reintroducing not only the most iconic game in the franchise, but an experience that influenced millions of children and teens that are now all grown up. These Millennials are eager to not only relive their childhood but also share it with their children. You don’t really see this sentiment with GTA. The sharing, the bonding, the fondness of a generational phenomenon is more important than shooting, robbing, and pretending to be cooler than you actually are (although stuff like that is fun).
What do you think? Which of these two massive November video game releases is the most significant? Please share your thoughts with us on our Boss Rush Facebook Group or our Boss Rush Discord.
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Featured Image Source: MSN_1
Sources: GTA via Wikipedia, N64 Games via Wikipedia, MSN_1, MSN_2, The Gamer, Zelda Dungeon,
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