In honour of the game’s arrival on Switch 2 as part of the Nintendo Classics GameCube lineup, here’s our new retro review of one of Link’s most memorable adventures…

Creating a ranking of my top Zelda titles before the Switch era, where does 2002’s The Wind Waker stand? This title sparked debate for several reasons, yet personally it clinches a spot among my top three – impressive given the series’ extensive catalog spanning over four decades.

While initial reactions critiqued its vibrant art style and sailing mechanics, the game’s enduring charm lies in its whimsical world-building. The whimsical cel-shading and orchestrated wind mechanics may not have pleased everyone initially, but the intricately designed temples and adventure pacing showcase Nintendo at its inventive best.

What makes this oceanic quest remarkable is its masterful balance. Players gradually unlock abilities that transform exploration, while dynamic combat mechanics keep encounters fresh. Sailing across shifting tides becomes meditative rather than monotonous, inviting gamers to chart 49 distinct islands brimming with secrets.

The atmosphere captivates immediately, blending childlike wonder with undercurrents of melancholy. Link’s expressive animations and the lively soundtrack breathe life into every sword swing and grappling hook maneuver. While later versions smoothed certain edges, the GameCube original’s gently faded palette maintains a nostalgic appeal perfect for retro enthusiasts.

Though missing quality-of-life improvements from HD remasters, the core experience remains intact. A particular late-game fetch quest may test players’ patience, but it’s a minor blemish on an otherwise immaculate journey across sun-dappled waves and mysterious ruins.

Replay value shines through charming towns populated with eccentric characters and inventive side quests. Collecting figurines or charting every islet transforms a 30-hour campaign into an 70-hour odyssey – proof of the game’s enduring magnetism.

Combat retains its rhythmic satisfaction decades later, blending classic Zelda lock-ons with acrobatic flourishes. The narrative crescendos surprisingly dark, subverting expectations with its philosophical undertones about legacy and rebirth.