"Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port: Still Considered"

Discover the latest updates on the potential release of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker for the Nintendo Switch 2, including insights into Nintendo's plans and the enhancements of the HD version over the original.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming To Switch 2

During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was announced that the GameCube version of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker will make its way to the Switch 2. This news sparked curiosity among fans about the fate of Wind Waker HD on the new console.

Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, shed light on this during a conversation reported by Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9. Host Tim Gettys mentioned speaking with Bihldorff at a Switch 2 press event in New York, where he directly asked about the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the Switch 2. Bihldorff responded, "No, all options are on the table," indicating that a port of the HD version is still under consideration, though nothing has been finalized.

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 the release of Wind Waker HD on the Wii U in 2013. This HD version boasts several improvements, including enhanced visuals from 480p to HD, better lighting, gyro controls for weapons, accelerated sailing, and various gameplay tweaks. 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 this beloved title.

In related news, Nintendo is rebranding its Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries to "Nintendo Classics." According to Nintendo, members of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon enjoy The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Nintendo Switch 2, with additional titles slated for future release. These games will also feature options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.