Kotaku | 15.06.2026 02:55
When The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker made its public debut, it was met with a blend of confusion and anger. As the Nintendo GameCube had stunned players with the ambitious fidelity of Rogue Squadron and Wave Race, the cel-shaded, cartoony approach was in contrast to the Link seen during the 2000 Space World demo. Some dreamed of a more “realistic” Hyrule, trending darker and more dramatic. They’d eventually get something more tribal tattooed in Twilight Princess, but in the interim they’d have to eat crow. Wind Waker is in frequent rotation for the best in the series, illustrating the greatness possible when Nintendo sticks to their guns creatively. A legacy I’m concerned they’re willing to bail on.
