Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered

The announcement of the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 has sparked curiosity about the fate of Wind Waker HD. Fans eager to see this beloved title on the next-gen console can rest assured that all possibilities are still being considered by Nintendo.

Nintendo Keeps All Options Open for Other Wind Waker Versions

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 led to questions about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD, the enhanced version released on the Wii U.

In a conversation with Nate Bihldorff, Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, during a Switch 2 press event in New York, the topic of Wind Waker HD was addressed. As reported by Tim Gettys on Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9, Bihldorff was clear in stating that the availability of the original Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) does not preclude the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the Switch 2. Bihldorff emphasized, "no, all options are on the table," leaving the door open for future announcements.

Original Release and Enhancements

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 enhanced version boasted several improvements, including a jump from 480p to HD visuals, enhanced lighting, gyro controls for aiming weapons, faster sailing mechanics, and various gameplay adjustments. With the GameCube library now exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could be the only way for owners of the original Switch to experience these enhancements.

Moreover, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries have been rebranded as Nintendo Classics. Subscribers to 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 titles promised in the future. These games will also feature additional in-game options like retro screen filters and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.