Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered

The possibility of the Wind Waker HD version being ported to the Nintendo Switch 2 remains open, even as the original GameCube version is set to be released on the new console. Dive into the details of Nintendo's plans and explore the enhancements of Wind Waker HD over its predecessor.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Coming To Switch 2

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 Switch 2. This sparked curiosity among fans about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD to the next-generation console.

Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. In a conversation reported by Tim Gettys on the Kinda Funny Games Daily episode uploaded on April 9, Bihldorff clarified that the availability of Wind Waker on the Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) service does not rule out the possibility of porting the Wii U's Wind Waker HD to the Switch 2. Gettys stated, "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."

First Released in 2002

Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, Wind Waker made a significant leap forward when it was re-released as Wind Waker HD on the Wii U in 2013. This version boasted several enhancements, including an upgrade to HD visuals from 480p, improved lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay tweaks. With the GameCube library now exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD might be the only avenue for original Switch owners to experience the game.

In related news, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries are undergoing a rebranding to Nintendo Classics. Nintendo has announced that "Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members will soon be able to play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on Nintendo Switch 2, with more games coming in the future." Additionally, these games will feature options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.