We at NerdLeaks are digging into a new rumour that has Zelda fans buzzing: data allegedly found in the files of Zelda: Ocarina of Time for Switch 2 may point to a potential Master Quest mode or DLC. Take this with a pinch of salt, but if true, it could signal extra post-launch content for one of Nintendo’s most treasured remakes.
What Was Reported
Per Nintendo Life, a user named MrCheeze posted on BlueSky claiming that strings of data in the game's files include "MQ" next to the title "DodongoCavern". MrCheeze also reportedly followed up with more detail, citing a set of strings found in the game's exefs that include "HasMQ", "IsMQModeExist", "NewGameMQ" and "ReleaseMQ".
That combination of file names and flags is why some people — us included — are asking whether Master Quest could be on the roadmap as DLC for Zelda: Ocarina of Time on Switch 2. The discovery is described as suggestive rather than definitive: MrCheeze’s findings allegedly point toward some sort of MQ-related content but do not confirm anything official.
The Source & Credibility
We’re treating the claim cautiously. The initial lead comes via MrCheeze on BlueSky, and the evidence cited is a handful of strings inside the game's executable filesystem. Those specific strings — HasMQ, IsMQModeExist, NewGameMQ, ReleaseMQ — are the basis for the rumour.
It’s worth noting that these are unverified file-level claims at this stage. We have no confirmation from Nintendo or other internal sources, and nothing concrete has been announced. Per Nintendo Life, a recent interview with producer Eiji Aonuma and IGN is relevant here; when asked whether Master Quest was being considered for the Switch 2 remake, Aonuma reportedly said, " I don't think that we would announce anything specific at this time".
So while the file strings are intriguing, the official line — per that Aonuma quote — is noncommittal. As ever with data-mining rumours, file names can hint at plans, leftovers, or dead code, so we’re keeping our expectations tempered.
What It Could Mean
If the "MQ" references are genuine and tied to playable content, several possibilities present themselves — again, if true. The strings could indicate:
- A toggle or flag for a Master Quest mode that can be enabled in-game.
- New game flow items such as a separate "NewGame" path specifically labelled "MQ".
- Planned release mechanics — the presence of a "ReleaseMQ" string might suggest an on-disc flag, DLC package, or staged rollout, though the data itself does not state which.
We’re not claiming to know whether this would be a free update or paid DLC. The rumour itself doesn’t specify pricing or distribution. It’s also unclear whether any potential Master Quest content would simply reuse the original's remixed dungeons or be a more substantial rework akin to other remakes. The community reaction quoted in the original report shows fans debating whether such content should be free or paid and how ambitious a modern Master Quest should be.
For readers tracking related developments, this rumour arrives amid broader Switch 2 conversation. Our earlier coverage of the Ocarina Of Time Remake pricing chatter and reporting on Switch 2 compatibility fixes is useful context for anyone watching how Nintendo handles remakes and post-launch support — though again, the current MQ clues do not confirm an official plan.
Why This Matters
Why should you care? For many players the current Zelda: Ocarina of Time remake on Switch 2 is an incredible experience, but some fans have called it a relatively breezy playthrough compared to the original and later versions. A true Master Quest mode — if present or planned as DLC — would address calls for a harder, reworked run and could add replay value.
That said, we must be clear: the evidence is speculative. The "MQ" markers are suggestive and the Aonuma quote remains noncommittal. We’ll keep digging and will report any official confirmation, but for now this is an intriguing data point that could mean a classic extra is on the way — or it could mean nothing at all. Take this with a pinch of salt, but we’re paying close attention.
