The release of the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker on the Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't rule out the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the new console. Dive into the details below to understand Nintendo's stance and the enhancements Wind Waker HD offers over the original.
Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming To Switch 2
During the Nintendo Direct for the Switch 2 on April 2, it was announced that the GameCube version of Wind Waker will be making its way to the new console. This sparked curiosity among fans about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD.
Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, provided some clarity on this matter. In an episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily released on April 9, host Tim Gettys shared that he had a conversation with Bihldorff at a Switch 2 press event in New York. When asked if the availability of Wind Waker on the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) service would prevent a Wind Waker HD port to the Switch 2, Bihldorff responded decisively, stating, "No, all options are on the table." While nothing is set in stone, this suggests that Nintendo is keeping an open mind about porting Wind Waker HD.
First Released in 2002
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker originally debuted on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and in 2003 in Western markets. A decade later, in 2013, Wind Waker HD was released on the Wii U with significant upgrades. These improvements included a jump from 480p to high-definition visuals, enhanced lighting, the addition of gyro controls for aiming weapons, faster sailing mechanics, and other gameplay tweaks. With the GameCube library now exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could provide original Switch owners their only chance to experience this enhanced version.
In related news, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries are being rebranded as "Nintendo Classics." According to Nintendo, "Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members will soon be able to play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on Nintendo Switch 2, with more games to be added in the future." Additionally, these games will feature in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.
