The announcement that The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2 through the GameCube library has not quelled fans' hopes for a full port of the beloved game. According to Nate Bihldorff, senior vice president of product development at Nintendo of America, the availability of a game on Nintendo Switch Online does not rule out the possibility of a remaster or remake. This statement was made during an interview with Kinda Funny's Tim Gettys, addressing concerns about the future of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and Twilight Princess on the Nintendo Switch platform, including the original Switch and the upcoming Switch 2.
Despite the 2003 release of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker and its subsequent port to the Wii U in 2013, fans have been eager for a modern remaster. With the game set to be part of Nintendo's premium subscription service upon the Nintendo Switch 2's release on June 5, some feared it might be the end of the line for a more comprehensive port. However, Bihldorff's response to inquiries about the game's future was reassuring, indicating that "all options are on the table" and that Nintendo has not closed the door on any potential remakes or ports, even for games available on Nintendo Switch Online.
This news comes on the heels of last week's Nintendo Direct presentation, where it was revealed that GameCube titles are on their way to Nintendo Switch Online as part of its premium library. This update will bring a host of classic 2000s-era titles to subscribers, including F-Zero GX, Soulcalibur 2, and The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker, all set to be available at launch this summer. The library is expected to grow, with teased additions such as Super Mario Sunshine, Luigi's Mansion, Super Mario Strikers, and Pokemon XD: Gale of Darkness, among others.
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However, the excitement around the Nintendo Switch 2 has been tempered by delays in pre-order dates. Initially set back in the United States due to import tariffs enacted by President Trump, the delay has now spread to Nintendo Canada, affecting pre-orders there as well.
For those looking to stay updated, you can find out more about everything announced at the Switch 2 Nintendo Direct.
