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

Wind Waker’s GameCube version getting released for Switch 2 does not mean that Wind Waker HD will not get ported. Dive deeper into Nintendo’s considerations on this topic and discover the enhancements Wind Waker HD brings to the original game.

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 Wind Waker will be coming to the Switch 2. This news sparked curiosity among fans about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD to the next-gen console.

However, Nintendo of America Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, provided clarity on this matter. In an episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily uploaded on April 9, host Tim Gettys shared insights from his conversation with Bihldorff at a Switch 2 press event in New York. When asked if the availability of Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) would prevent the Wii U version from being ported to the Switch 2, Bihldorff was quick to respond, "no, all options are on the table." While no definitive plans have been confirmed, this statement keeps the door open for a possible Wind Waker HD port.

First Released in 2002

Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, Wind Waker was later remastered as Wind Waker HD for the Wii U in 2013. This HD version brought significant upgrades, including a shift from 480p to high-definition visuals, enhanced lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and numerous gameplay adjustments. As the GameCube library remains exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could be the only way for original Switch owners to experience this enhanced version.

Additionally, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries have been rebranded as 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 to follow." These games will feature options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.