Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered

The prospect of playing the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker on the upcoming Switch 2 has sparked excitement among fans. However, this does not rule out the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the new console. Dive into the details of Nintendo’s plans and discover the enhancements made to the HD version over the original game.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming to Switch 2

Nintendo announced during the Switch 2 Direct on April 2 that the GameCube version of Wind Waker would be making its way to the Switch 2. This news led to speculation about the future of Wind Waker HD on the new console.

Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. In an interview shared by Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9, host Tim Gettys recounted his conversation with Bihldorff at a Switch 2 press event in New York. When asked if the availability of Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) would prevent a Wind Waker HD port to Switch 2, Bihldorff was clear: "no, all options are on the table". This statement leaves the door open for the HD version to potentially make its way to the Switch 2, although nothing has been confirmed yet.

First Released in 2002

Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, Wind Waker received a significant upgrade when it was ported to the Wii U as Wind Waker HD in 2013. The HD version boasts several improvements, including a jump from 480p to high-definition visuals, enhanced lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing mechanics, and other gameplay enhancements. Given that the GameCube library is exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could be the only way for owners of the original Switch to experience this enhanced version of the game.

In other news, the libraries for Nintendo Switch Online classics are now being rebranded as Nintendo Classics. Nintendo has stated that "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." Additionally, these games will come with in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.