If you're a fan of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, you'll be thrilled to hear that its journey isn't over yet. The original GameCube version of the game is set to make its way to the Nintendo Switch 2, but that's not the end of the story for fans hoping to see Wind Waker HD on the new console.
Nintendo Keeping All Options Open for Wind Waker HD on Switch 2
During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was announced that the GameCube version of Wind Waker would be making its way to the new console. This sparked curiosity and concern among fans about the fate of Wind Waker HD, which was originally released on the Wii U in 2013.
Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns in a conversation with Kinda Funny Games Daily host Tim Gettys during a Switch 2 press event in New York on April 9. When asked whether the availability of Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) would prevent a port of Wind Waker HD to the Switch 2, Bihldorff was clear and reassuring. Gettys reported, "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."
A Look Back at Wind Waker's History
First released on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker quickly became a beloved classic. Its HD version, released on the Wii U in 2013, brought several enhancements, including upgraded visuals from 480p to HD, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay adjustments. These improvements have made Wind Waker HD a favorite among fans, and its potential port to the Switch 2 could be the only way for original Switch owners to experience these enhancements.
In related news, Nintendo has announced that the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries are being rebranded as 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 more games promised in the future. Some of these titles will also feature in-game options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.
