The prospect of playing the beloved The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker on the Nintendo Switch 2 has sparked excitement among fans, especially with the announcement that the GameCube version will be making its way to the new console. However, this doesn't mean that the HD version, initially released for the Wii U, is off the table for a potential port. Let's delve into Nintendo's stance on this matter and explore the enhancements that Wind Waker HD brought to the original game.
Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming To Switch 2
During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was announced that the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker would be available on the upcoming console. This news led to speculation about whether Wind Waker HD would also see a release on the Switch 2.
Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. In a conversation with Tim Gettys from Kinda Funny Games Daily, recorded during a Switch 2 press event in New York on April 9, Bihldorff stated that the possibility of porting Wind Waker HD to the Switch 2 is still being considered. Gettys relayed, "I did ask if having The Wind Waker on NSO precludes it from the Switch 2 getting the actual Wii U port at some point, and he was very quick to say 'no, all options are on the table'. Obviously, nothing is confirmed one way or another."
First Released in 2002
Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker received an HD upgrade for the Wii U in 2013. This updated version boasted several enhancements, including a jump from 480p to HD visuals, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay tweaks. With the GameCube library becoming exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could be the only way for owners of the original Switch to experience the game in its enhanced form.
In other 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 coming in the future." These titles will also feature in-game options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.
