"Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered"

Discover the latest developments on whether the beloved The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker HD will make its way to the Nintendo Switch 2. Dive into Nintendo’s considerations and explore the enhancements that the HD version offers over the original GameCube release.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming to Switch 2

Nintendo announced during the Switch 2 Direct on April 2 that the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker will be available on the upcoming console. This news sparked speculation among fans about the potential for a Wind Waker HD port to the Switch 2.

In a reassuring development, Nintendo of America Senior Vice President of Product Development Nate Bihldorff addressed these concerns. In a conversation reported by Tim Gettys on Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9, Bihldorff made it clear that the availability of the GameCube version on the Nintendo Switch Online service does not rule out a future port of Wind Waker HD. Gettys shared, "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 a significant upgrade with Wind Waker HD on the Wii U in 2013. This HD version boasts several enhancements including a leap from 480p to full HD visuals, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, quicker sailing, and numerous gameplay tweaks. Given that the GameCube library will be exclusive to the Switch 2, a port of Wind Waker HD could be the only avenue for original Switch owners to experience this updated classic.

Nintendo is also rebranding its Switch Online classics game libraries to "Nintendo Classics." The company has announced 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, some titles will feature in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.