Zelda: The Wind Waker is making an unexpected comeback on Nintendo Switch 2

Finally, after years of waiting, The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker is coming to the Nintendo Switch 2, but not in the way you think it might.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker was first released for the Nintendo GameCube in 2003 and was later ported as an HD remaster for the Wii U in 2013. I remember during its original launch, many fans were angered by its cel-shaded visuals (which I never quite understood) but over time, many of those fans soon began to appreciate this beloved entry in The Legend of Zelda series.

Check out The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker trailer below!

Despite the Wii U release, fans have longed for another remaster of The Wind Waker and following countless rumours of a Nintendo Switch port, this latest news announced during the recent Direct event will please some fans of the series.

The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker isn't getting a remaster, but it is returning via an additional perk included in a new GameCube tier to Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass - and this will be exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2.

This decision to release The Wind Waker in this way will understandably frustrate fans. Many have been waiting for the Switch announcement but locking it behind a Switch 2 subscription paywall is perhaps not the best way to do it, in my opinion.

After all, if you’re a paying Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscriber but can’t get your hands on the Nintendo Switch 2 at launch, it will no doubt prove to be a frustrating time for passionate fans.

I assume that the reason for this is due to the original Nintendo Switch not being able to handle GameCube emulation but I’m no software expert.

The Nintendo Switch 2 will launch on 5 June 2025. We’ll keep you posted if we hear of any further developments.