"Wind Waker HD Switch 2 Port Remains a Possibility"

The excitement among fans of *The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker* has been palpable since the announcement that the GameCube version of the game is set to be released on the Nintendo Switch 2. This news broke during the Nintendo Direct for Switch 2 on April 2, sparking discussions and speculation about the future of *Wind Waker HD* on the new console.

Nintendo Keeps Options Open for Other Wind Waker Versions

Amidst the buzz, Nintendo of America Senior Vice President of Product Development, Nate Bihldorff, provided some clarity. In a conversation with Tim Gettys of Kinda Funny Games Daily, captured during a Switch 2 press event in New York on April 9, Bihldorff addressed the possibility of *Wind Waker HD* being ported to the Switch 2. Gettys reported, "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."

The Legacy of Wind Waker

Originally launched on the GameCube in 2002 in Japan and 2003 in the West, *The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker* became a beloved entry in the Zelda franchise. A decade later, *Wind Waker HD* was released on the Wii U in 2013, featuring significant enhancements. These included an upgrade to HD visuals from the original 480p, improved lighting, the addition of gyro controls for weapons, faster sailing, and various gameplay tweaks. 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 of the game.

In related news, the libraries of classic games on Nintendo Switch Online are undergoing a rebranding to "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.