Wind Waker HD Switch Port Still in Consideration

Rumors that The Wind Waker's GameCube version is coming to Switch 2 do not mean that Wind Waker HD has been ruled out for a port. Here’s what Nintendo has said about the situation and how the HD version improved upon the original title.

Wind Waker GameCube Version Reportedly Coming To Switch 2

Nintendo Is Leaving The Door Open For Other Wind Waker Ports

As announced during the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, The Wind Waker's GameCube version is reportedly headed to the new console. This news led fans to question whether Wind Waker HD would ever make its way to the next-generation system.

Nate Bihldorff, Senior Vice President of Product Development at Nintendo of America, addressed these concerns. In an April 9 episode of Kinda Funny Games Daily, host Tim Gettys reported speaking with Bihldorff at a Switch 2 press event in New York, where the possibility of a Wind Waker HD port for Switch 2 was discussed.

Gettys stated, "I asked if The Wind Waker’s inclusion on NSO means the actual Wii U port won’t come to Switch 2, and he immediately said 'no, all options are on the table.' Of course, nothing is officially confirmed either way."

Originally Released in 2002

The original Wind Waker debuted on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in Western markets. A decade later, Wind Waker HD was released for the Wii U in 2013. This version featured significant enhancements, including a jump from 480p to HD graphics, improved lighting, gyro controls for certain weapons, faster sailing, and various other gameplay refinements. Since the GameCube library is exclusive to the Switch 2, a Wind Waker HD port may be 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, "Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack members will soon gain access to The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, F-ZERO GX, and SOULCALIBUR II on Nintendo Switch 2, with more titles to follow." Some games will also include optional features like a retro screen filter and widescreen support.