"Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Still Considered"

The excitement surrounding the release of the GameCube version of Wind Waker for the Switch 2 has sparked curiosity about the potential porting of Wind Waker HD. Dive in to discover Nintendo's stance on this and the enhancements that 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 beloved GameCube version of Wind Waker will be making its way to the Switch 2. This news has led fans to speculate about the future of Wind Waker HD on the next-gen console.

Nintendo of America Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, addressed these concerns. 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 about the possibility of Wind Waker HD being ported to the Switch 2, Gettys revealed, "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 captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. A decade later, in 2013, Wind Waker HD was released for the Wii U, boasting significant upgrades. These improvements included a leap from 480p to HD visuals, enhanced lighting, gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay adjustments. With the GameCube library becoming exclusive to the Switch 2, porting Wind Waker HD could be the only way for original Switch owners to experience this enhanced version.

In related news, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries are being rebranded as Nintendo Classics. According to Nintendo, "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 in-game options such as a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.