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The GameCube’s version (sub-HD with original HUD) on the left and the 1080p Wii U HD-edition on the right.

Apart from, much, shinier graphics; there’s been a wealth of new additions and tweaks made to the original version that was released in March 2004 (in the US). Let’s take a look at each of these differences:

• The Wii U’s gamepad now functions as the map/inventory screen (saving you the hassle of bringing it up mid-game).
• You can use motion controls to use the Wind Waker itself.
• Some weapons can be aimed by using the Wii U pad’s built-in gyroscope.
• The ‘Tingle Tuner’ from the GC original (that used a Gameboy Advance to hook up with) was swapped out for the ‘Tingle Bottle’ instead. This allows you to send messages via the Wii U’s Miiverse community.
• You can now use the Picto Box to take ‘selfies’ and screenshots. These can then be posted onto the Miiverse for the community to comment on.
• You can now purchase the Swift Sail at the WIndfall Island auction house. Offering a 50% speed increase and auto-wind direction adjustment.
• Shorter cranes and sped-up animations reduce time waiting when collecting sea-based treasures.
• The ‘Triforce Quest’ has, thankfully, been shortened. You now only need to find three Triforce Charts as the other five shards can be found in treasure chests on-land (compared to all eight being underwater on the orginial version).
• You can now carry 500 rupees from the beginning (instead of a measly 200).
• Hero Difficulty mode is available immediately and doubles up enemy damage and health can only be replenished via potions.