Nintendo Considering Switch Port for Wind Waker HD

Just because Wind Waker's GameCube version is coming to Switch 2, that doesn't mean we won't also get a Wind Waker HD port. Here's Nintendo's perspective on the situation and a look at the improvements the HD version made to the original.

The Wind Waker GameCube Version is Coming to Switch 2

Nintendo is Considering All Options for Future Wind Waker Ports

During the April 2nd Nintendo Direct for Switch 2, it was announced that the GameCube version of The Wind Waker will be available on the new console. Naturally, this left fans speculating about the potential for a Wind Waker HD port on the next-gen system.

Nate Bihldorff, Senior Vice President of Product Development at Nintendo of America, offered some clarity. In an April 9th episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, host Tim Gettys reported on a conversation with Bihldorff from a Switch 2 press event in New York. During their talk, the subject of a potential Wind Waker HD port for Switch 2 came up.

Gettys shared, "I asked if putting The Wind Waker on NSO means the actual Wii U port won't come to Switch 2. He was quick to say 'no, all options are on the table.' So, nothing is officially confirmed either way."

Originally Launched in 2002

The original Wind Waker debuted on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in Western markets. A decade later, an enhanced version, Wind Waker HD, was released for the Wii U in 2013. This remaster brought significant upgrades, including a jump from 480p to full HD visuals, improved lighting, gyro controls for certain weapons, faster sailing, and numerous other gameplay refinements. Since the GameCube library is only on the Switch 2, a Wind Waker HD port is likely the only way for original Switch owners to experience the game.

In related news, the Nintendo Switch Online classic game libraries are being rebranded as "Nintendo Classics." Nintendo confirmed 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 the Switch 2, with more titles to follow." Some of these classics will also feature new in-game options, such as a retro screen filter and widescreen support.