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With the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2 reportedly set for January 16th, anticipation is at an all-time high. Gamers everywhere are eager to get their hands on the next iteration of a revolutionary hybrid console. With leaks only suggesting better hardware, fans are looking for exciting new titles.
While fans are expecting the device to come with several ports and third-party support, the lack of fresh, major exclusives could leave some potential buyers disappointed. And nothing would be better than aZeldagame, especially the one that Ubisoft once rejected, making it the perfect nostalgia bait.
Switch 2 should bring the rejectedWind WakerSpin-off
In 2002,The Legend of Zelda: Wind Wakerrelease created huge waves with its bold cel-shaded art style, offering a visually stunning adventure that was different from the previousZeldaentries, resulting in a backlash from fans.
However, as time passed, it quickly became a fan favorite for its immersive world, fun gameplay, and memorable characters. Among the fans who were captivated byWind Wakerwas Davide Soliani, an ambitious developer at Ubisoft Milan.
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Soliani was deeply inspired by the game’s art and mechanics, so he envisioned a portable version ofWind Wakerfor the Game Boy Advance, at the time. Then he created a concept pitch, complete with a supposed prototype to showcase to Nintendo.
Long time ago, i guess it was the 2003, me and Fabio Pagetti (the artist who made the pixel art below) almost convinced our managing director to let us produce a demo for a GBA version of Wind Waker. No luck that time, but it was running nicely. We were dreamers 😂😍pic.twitter.com/1LDseagMOp
However, when the concept idea was pitched to the Ubisoft higher-ups,the project was rejected. The reasons still remain unclear, but most likely the technical limitations of the GBA and the risks involved in porting a beloved franchise were the contributing factors to the decision.
Despite the rejection, Soliani’s passion forZeldadidn’t fade. He would later go on to work with Nintendo, leading theMario + Rabbidsseries, blending the beloved characters of Mario with Ubisoft’s Rabbids in a surprising and successful crossover.
Why this could be the perfect nostalgia bait
As the release of the Switch 2 finally approaches closer, nostalgia-driven content could play a significant role in boosting the system’s appeal, especially since it supports backward compatibility.
With better hardware now, it will ensure that the older games get the required enhanced visuals for previous games. Just imagine a remaster or port ofWind Wakerwith the latest hardware,it could be the perfect way to tapinto the deep well of fan affection for theZeldaseries.
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That game remains one of the innovative titles in theZeldaseries, earning praise for its immersive gameplay and unique art direction. Bringing it to the Switch 2 would introduce it to a new generation of players who may have missed it on the GameCube.
Besides this is not something different for Nintendo as it has a history of leaning into nostalgia, with classic titles being reintroduced to new generations through remasters, ports, and updated versions.
In the end, only time will tell if the dream of Soliani will finally come true with Switch 2 or if fans have to wait alongside him to see the return of the Wind Waker.
Shubham Chaurasia
Gaming Writer
Articles Published :1368
At FandomWire, Shubham has spent over a year diving into the evolving world of live-service, action, and open-world games. Whether it’s the democratic galaxy of Helldivers 2 or finishing enemies in titles like Assassin’s Creed or Ghost of Tsushima, Shubham brings a sharp eye and genuine enthusiasm to everything he writes.When he’s not writing, you’ll probably catch him clutching rounds in Valorant or leaping off virtual cliffs into a pile of enemies for the perfect finisher. Outside of gaming, Shubham recharges by hitting the gym or heading out on long, spontaneous bike rides, always chasing the next open road. No matter the game or the gear, he’s always committed to bringing readers timely, accurate, and engaging updates from across the gaming industry.
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