{"id":1550,"date":"2013-11-18T15:45:45","date_gmt":"2013-11-18T14:45:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-legend-of-zelda-wind-waker-hd-wii-u\/"},"modified":"2026-04-09T21:45:14","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T19:45:14","slug":"review-the-legend-of-zelda-wind-waker-hd-wii-u","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-the-legend-of-zelda-wind-waker-hd-wii-u\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: The Legend of Zelda \u2013 Wind Waker HD (Wii U)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Nintendo demonstrates their mastery of game design with Wind Waker, a title that remains one of the finest adventure games, even if time has left some minor imperfections.<\/strong><\/p>\n

For us, The Legend of Zelda: Wind Waker<\/em><\/strong> stands as one of the best adventures of the past decade. Its distinctive cel-shaded graphics<\/strong> on the GameCube<\/strong> were visually captivating. Considering the game’s comprehensive design, encompassing environments and boss encounters, we even consider it a potential contender for the best Zelda game of all time<\/strong>, rivaling A Link to The Past<\/em><\/strong>.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Now, Nintendo revisits this classic on the Wii U, presenting a high-resolution 1080p version<\/strong> with new content<\/strong>. The question is: is this upgrade worthwhile for GameCube owners, and can it serve as a catalyst for the Wii U’s resurgence? Continue reading to find out…<\/p>\n

In Wind Waker, players assume the role of a young boy living in the era “after the great hero.” On his birthday, he receives the hero’s iconic green tunic, sword, and shield. The only missing element is a princess to rescue, and predictably, this sets the stage for the adventure that is The Wind Waker. This marks the first instance of series creator Shigeru Miyamoto<\/strong> entrusting the project to another director, with Eiji Aonuma<\/strong> capably helming the development.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Wind Waker (WW)<\/em> boasts an exceptional art style<\/strong>, a compelling atmosphere<\/strong>, and a remarkably accessible gameplay loop<\/strong>. Players control their hero in a free-roaming 3D world. Beginning on a childhood island, the protagonist is soon drawn into adventure by setting sail on the enchanted boat<\/strong>. The game evolves into a maritime exploration, where players engage in battles against colossal octopuses and unearth hidden treasures, all facilitated by the Wii U controller’s touch screen<\/strong>. This enhances the gameplay experience compared to the original GameCube version. While the game is compatible with the Controller Pro<\/strong> for a more traditional feel, the map displayed on the Wii U GamePad offers a significant advantage, making it our recommended control scheme.<\/p>\n

Overall, the enhancements<\/strong> implemented by Nintendo in this classic feel well-considered. The original release was criticized for lacking some dungeons, and two of these dungeons have been reintroduced<\/strong> in this version. Additionally, the sailing mechanics, while charming on the GameCube, could be time-consuming, particularly during the late-game TriForce shard quest. This aspect has been streamlined<\/strong>; for instance, players can now acquire fast sails<\/strong>, and the final quest has been reduced from eight to a more manageable three pieces. These represent just a few of the subtle improvements<\/strong> that contribute to a smoother gameplay experience while preserving the core essence of the original<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p>\n

Wind Waker’s<\/em> strength lies in its distinct approach<\/strong>. In an era often defined by extensive cut-scenes<\/strong> featuring well-known voice actors and pre-rendered sequences, Wind Waker maintains its simplicity<\/strong>. The game relies primarily on text and music, allowing players to interpret character voices and actions<\/strong>. While this approach might be perceived as old-fashioned, it provides a refreshing alternative for those who appreciate creative interpretation<\/strong> and wish to engage their imaginations.<\/p>\n

The HD remaster is excellent<\/strong>, transforming the game into an aesthetic showcase<\/strong>. While some elements, such as certain animations, may exhibit signs of limited updating, the overall result is a more visually refined and fluid<\/strong> experience.<\/p>\n

Nintendo deserves commendation for their work on Wind Waker HD<\/em><\/strong>. Ultimately, raw processing power and resolution specifications cannot replace exceptional gameplay<\/strong>. Wind Waker excels as a game<\/strong>. The value of the upgrade will depend on individual preferences, but those who have never experienced The Wind Waker on the GameCube should acquire it for the Wii U<\/strong>. This title defined a generation<\/strong>, and upon playing it, you will understand its enduring impact<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

\"Betyg<\/p>\n