Heart Piece Locations
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Savage Labyrinth Guide
List of All Dungeons
All Upgrades and How to Obtain Them
All Great Fairy Locations
All Big Octo Locations
All Lookout Platform Locations
Best Controllers
100% Completion Guide
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The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker
GameCube and Wii U Version Differences
▲ 100% Completion Checklist
▲ All Heart Pieces & Empty Bottle Locations
▲ Treasure Charts | Triforce Charts
▲ GameCube and Wii U Version Differences
▲ Upgrades ▶︎ Wallet | Magic Meter | Picto Box
The GameCube and Wii U versions of The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker differ in graphics, quests, and quality of life adjustments. Read on to learn more about the differences between the different console versions!
List of Contents
GameCube and Wii U Version Differences
Wii U has HD Graphics
Since the Wii U version is a remaster of Wind Waker, you can expect higher definition (HD) graphics compared to the low-poly style of the GameCube. This also comes with smoother animations, improved shadows and lighting, along with better optimization for certain actions like swinging using the grappling hook or combat.
Addition of Hero Mode, Available from the Start
The Hero Mode is a new addition to the HD version, and provides a more difficult experience for Wind Waker. You will take double damage from enemies and cannot obtain hearts from enemies or objects.
Hero Mode will already be available from the start in Wind Waker HD. This mode allows you to take on the increased challenge immediately.
Initial Wallet Size is Increased
The initial wallet size has increased for the HD version. Instead of 200 Rupees, the wallet can hold 500 Rupees from the start of the game. This allows you to pay Tingle to decipher the Triforce Charts without upgrading your wallet.
Rupee Farming Guide: Best Way to Get Rupees
Picto Box Improvements
You can take pictures in Wind Waker using a device called the Picto Box, which you find in a chest in Tingle's jail cell. However, it will only take pictures in black and white.
In the original GameCube version, you will need to complete Lenzo's picture quests, then bring him a Forest Firefly to upgrade the Picto Box into a Deluxe Picto Box, which can take pictures in color.
However, the Wind Waker HD skips over the last step, and you can get the Deluxe Pictobox after completing Lenzo's quest without needing to capture a Firefly.
Pictograph Quest Guide and Rewards
Deluxe Pictobox Can Carry 12 Pictures in the Wind Waker HD
In Wind Waker HD, the Deluxe Pictobox can carry up to 12 pictures instead of the 3. This will be extra helpful later on when you start bringing pictures for Carlov to create sculptures for his gallery.
Sail Functions Differently
In the original version of the game, you must equip the Sail before using it. The HD version changes this, making the Sail an item that can be automatically toggled.
Rescue Tingle Before Acquiring the Sail in Wind Waker HD
In Wind Waker HD, you must rescue Tingle before purchasing the Sail. This differs from the original, where you can skip rescuing him early on.
Use the Swift Sail to Navigate in the Wind Waker HD
Wind Waker HD has the Swift Sail item available at the Windfall Auction. Once you get it, the Swift Sail helps you traverse the Great Sea faster and will automatically change according to the direction of the wind, making exploration a lot less tedious.
Wind Waker Functions Differently
In the original version of the game, you must equip the Wind Waker before using it. The HD version changes this, making the Wind Waker always mapped to the Up on the D-Pad.
The notes also don't start playing automatically in the HD version. The rhythm will only begin once you hold a direction.
All Controls for Every Version
No Mini Map in Wind Waker HD
The original version of Wind Waker has a mini map in the lower left corner of the screen when you are walking in the overworld or in a dungeon. Wind Waker HD does not have this. You will have to check the map in the menu to see your location.
Sea Chart: All Islands in the Great Sea
No Tingle Tuner in Wind Waker HD
In the original game, the Tingle Tuner allows you to connect your Game Boy Advance to the GameCube. This will let a friend play as Tingle while you play as Link.
However, in the Wind Waker HD version, the Tingle Tuner is replaced with the Tingle Bottle which allows you to send messages and screenshots to another Wind Waker player through Miiverse.
Tingle Tuners Cannot Be Used in the Nintendo Switch 2 Version
If you are playing the GameCube version of Wind Waker through Nintendo Switch Online, you will be unable to use the Tingle Tuner. Only the GameCube is able to use this item.
Can You Play Wind Waker on Switch?
Different Methods for Getting Tingle Statues
In the original version, you need to use the Tingle Tuner to find Tingle Statues. However, the HD version does not have the Tingle Tuner. Instead, you can find the Tingle Statues using a regular bomb.
Savage Labyrinth Final Reward Changed
The Hero's Charm can be obtained by completing the Savage Labyrinth in the HD version. In the original version, you will have to obtain this item by giving Ms. Marie a total of 41 Joy Pendants.
In the original version, you get a Heart Piece for completing the Savage Labyrinth.
Savage Labyrinth Guide and Rewards
Magic Armor Functions Differently
You can obtain the Magic Armor during the Trading Sequence side quest. It allows you to be invulnerable to damage. In the original version, it drains your Magic Meter. In the HD version, it is changed so that it drains your Rupees instead.
Different Rewards for Charts and Mini Games
Some charts and mini games have different rewards between versions. Notably, the original version can reward you with a Treasure Chart after seeking out treasure from another Treasure Chart. Meanwhile, the HD version replaces them with other items.
Orca's Combat Training Mini Game has additional Rupee rewards in the HD version. This gives the player another avenue to farm Rupees.
Less Triforce Charts
The Wii U version notably has a shorter game length than the GameCube version. This is largely due to a cut in the Triforce Quest, where instead of 8 Triforce charts, you will only need 3 to find all the Triforce Shards.
This also means that you need less money to complete the game in the HD remake, since Tingle charges you for each Triforce Chart that needs to be deciphered.
All Triforce Charts and Triforce Shard Locations
Which Version is Best?
Play Wind Waker HD for Better Quality of Life
The Wii U Wind Waker HD offers a better quality than life compared to the original experience. The graphics and controls are a lot more optimized, and the addition of new and updated content will give you an easier time exploring and accomplishing quests.
However, keep in mind that Wind Waker HD is only available on the Wii U. As of writing, there is no port for Wind Waker HD on the Nintendo Switch.
Original Wind Waker for Nostalgia and Accessibility
Those who played the original version of the game may be more familiar with the look and feel of the GameCube version. If you prefer the original's visuals and controls, it's recommended to play the GameCube version.
The original Wind Waker is also more accessible today, since it's available both on the GameCube and on GameCube Nintendo Switch Online for the Nintendo Switch 2.
The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Related Guides
The Legend of Zelda:
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The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker Walkthrough & Guides Wiki
GameCube and Wii U Version Differences
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