Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered

Discover the latest developments on the potential porting of Wind Waker HD to the Nintendo Switch 2, and explore the enhancements this version offers over the original GameCube release.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming To Switch 2

During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was announced that the beloved GameCube version of Wind Waker will be making its way to the next-gen console. This news sparked curiosity among fans about the fate of Wind Waker HD on the Switch 2.

Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. In a conversation covered by Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9, host Tim Gettys shared insights from his discussion 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 the Wii U version from being ported to the Switch 2, Bihldorff firmly stated, "no, all options are on the table." While nothing is set in stone, this leaves the door open for Wind Waker HD to potentially make its way to the Switch 2.

First Released in 2002

Originally released in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West on the GameCube, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. A decade later, in 2013, Wind Waker HD was introduced on the Wii U, bringing with it a host of improvements. These enhancements included a visual upgrade from 480p to high-definition, better lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay adjustments. With the GameCube library becoming exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD might be the only avenue for original Switch owners to experience this classic.

Additionally, Nintendo has rebranded its Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries to "Nintendo Classics." Members of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon have access to The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Nintendo Switch 2, with promises of more games to come. These titles will also feature in-game options like retro screen filters and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience.