Zelda: Wind Waker HD Hopes Persist Amid Switch 2 GameCube Rumors

The announcement that The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker will be available on the Nintendo Switch 2 through the GameCube library via Nintendo Switch Online has sparked speculation about potential future ports. However, fans can rest easy knowing that this doesn't rule out a full remaster or port to the console.

According to Nate Bihldorff, senior vice president of product development at Nintendo of America, in an interview with Kinda Funny's Tim Gettys, the availability of a game on Nintendo Switch Online does not preclude it from being remastered or remade. This statement offers hope to fans of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Twilight Princess, both beloved titles from the Zelda franchise that have yet to be ported to either the original Nintendo Switch or the upcoming Switch 2.

Some fans expressed concern that the inclusion of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker in the Nintendo Switch Online service, especially following its port to the Wii U in 2013, might mean a remaster would never happen. However, Bihldorff's comments suggest otherwise. He mentioned that all options remain open, emphasizing that games available on Nintendo Switch Online can still be released in other forms, such as remakes or ports.

During last week's Nintendo Direct, it was revealed that GameCube titles would be added to the Nintendo Switch Online premium library, including classics like F-Zero GX, Soulcalibur 2, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker. These titles will be available at launch this summer, with more to follow, such as Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness.

In other news, the pre-order date for the Nintendo Switch 2 in the United States was delayed due to import tariffs affecting financial markets, with Nintendo Canada also confirming a delay in pre-orders.

For a comprehensive look at what was unveiled, check out everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct.