The possibility of a Wind Waker HD port to the Switch 2 remains open, despite the announcement that the original GameCube version will be available on the new console. Dive into Nintendo's perspective on this and discover the enhancements made in the HD version over the original release.
Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming to Switch 2
During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was revealed that the GameCube version of Wind Waker will be available on the upcoming console. This news sparked curiosity among fans regarding the potential porting of Wind Waker HD to the Switch 2.
Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. In an episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily uploaded on April 9, host Tim Gettys shared insights from his 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) would prevent a Switch 2 port of the Wii U's Wind Waker HD, Bihldorff responded firmly, "No, all options are on the table." While nothing is set in stone, this statement keeps the door open for future possibilities.
First Released in 2002
Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in Western markets, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker received an HD remake on the Wii U in 2013. This updated version boasted significant enhancements, including a resolution upgrade to HD, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, accelerated sailing, and various gameplay tweaks. With the GameCube library being exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could offer original Switch owners the only chance to experience this improved iteration.
Additionally, the Nintendo Switch Online service, now rebranded as Nintendo Classics, continues to expand its offerings. Nintendo has announced that members of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon enjoy playing The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Nintendo Switch 2, with more titles to be added in the future. These games will feature additional in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the classic gaming experience.
