Nintendo's plans for The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker on the Switch 2 have sparked excitement and speculation among fans. While the GameCube version of Wind Waker is set to hit the Switch 2, the possibility of a Wind Waker HD port remains open, offering hope for fans eager to experience the enhanced version on the next-gen console.
During the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, the announcement that the GameCube's Wind Waker would be coming to the new console ignited discussions about the potential for a Wind Waker HD port. In a recent episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily aired on April 9, host Tim Gettys shared insights from his conversation with Nintendo of America's Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, at a Switch 2 press event in New York. When asked if the availability of Wind Waker on Nintendo Switch Online would prevent a Switch 2 port of the Wii U's Wind Waker HD, Bihldorff quickly responded, "No, all options are on the table." This statement keeps the door open for fans hoping to see the HD version on the Switch 2.
Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was later enhanced and released as Wind Waker HD on the Wii U in 2013. This HD version brought significant upgrades, including a shift from 480p to stunning HD visuals, improved lighting, the addition of gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing mechanics, and other gameplay enhancements. With the GameCube library now exclusive to the Switch 2, a port of Wind Waker HD could be the only way for owners of the original Switch to enjoy this classic in its upgraded form.
In related news, the Nintendo Switch Online classics game libraries are undergoing a rebranding to "Nintendo Classics." Members of the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack will soon have the opportunity to play The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on the Nintendo Switch 2, with more titles promised in the future. These games will also feature in-game options like a retro screen filter and widescreen gameplay, enhancing the nostalgic experience for players.