The excitement surrounding the announcement of the Wind Waker GameCube version coming to the Switch 2 has sparked discussions about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD. Fans eager to experience this beloved title on the next-gen console can take comfort in knowing that Nintendo is keeping their options open.
Nintendo Open to Porting Other Versions of Wind Waker
During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, it was revealed that the GameCube version of Wind Waker would be making its way to the new console. This announcement naturally led fans to question the fate of Wind Waker HD on the Switch 2.
In an insightful interview with Kinda Funny Games Daily on April 9, Nintendo of America Senior Vice President of Product Development Nate Bihldorff addressed these concerns. Host Tim Gettys shared that during a Switch 2 press event in New York, he directly asked Bihldorff about the possibility of a Wind Waker HD port. Bihldorff's response was reassuring: "No, all options are on the table." This statement leaves the door open for the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the Switch 2, although no final decisions have been confirmed.
The Evolution of Wind Waker
Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker has been cherished by fans for its unique art style and engaging gameplay. A decade later, in 2013, Wind Waker HD was released for the Wii U, featuring significant enhancements. These improvements included a jump from 480p to high-definition visuals, refined lighting, the addition of gyro controls for weapon use, accelerated sailing mechanics, and various other gameplay tweaks.
With the GameCube library now exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could provide original Switch owners with their only chance to play this enhanced version.
Nintendo has also 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 play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Switch 2, with more titles on the horizon. Additionally, these games will offer in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.
