"Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port: Still Under Consideration"

The excitement surrounding the announcement of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker for the Nintendo Switch 2 has sparked discussions about the potential for Wind Waker HD to be ported as well. Dive in to discover Nintendo's stance on this and the enhancements that Wind Waker HD brings to the beloved 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 Wind Waker will be making its way to the new console. This news has led fans to question the fate of Wind Waker HD on the Switch 2.

Clarifying these concerns, Nate Bihldorff, Senior Vice President of Product Development at Nintendo of America, spoke with Kinda Funny Games Daily host Tim Gettys at a Switch 2 press event in New York on April 9. When asked if the availability of The Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) would prevent the Wii U version from being ported to the Switch 2, Bihldorff responded assertively, "No, all options are on the table." This statement leaves the door open for a potential Wind Waker HD port, although no concrete plans have been confirmed.

First Released in 2002

Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, The Wind Waker later saw a high-definition remaster in 2013 for the Wii U, titled Wind Waker HD. This enhanced version boasts significant upgrades such as a shift from 480p to HD visuals, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, quicker sailing, and numerous gameplay tweaks. Given that the GameCube library is exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could provide original Switch owners with their only opportunity to experience this acclaimed title.

In related news, Nintendo has rebranded its Switch Online classics game libraries to "Nintendo Classics." According to the company, members of Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon have the chance to play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Nintendo Switch 2, with additional titles to be added in the future. These games will also feature options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the classic experience for modern audiences.