The excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal this morning has reignited rumors about using Joy-Con controllers as a mouse. In the reveal trailer, a captivating moment shows a pair of detached Joy-Cons being placed onto a surface, attachment side down. They connect to a pair of connectors with flat bottoms and then glide across the surface, much like a mouse on a mouse pad. A closer look reveals what appears to be a slider pad on the bottom of one of the connectors, adding further weight to the theory.
Rumors have been circulating that this functionality could be possible due to a sensor inside the Joy-Cons, similar to those found in computer mice. However, Nintendo has yet to officially confirm these speculations or elaborate on their potential implications. Fans are buzzing with ideas about how this feature could enhance gameplay, particularly for titles like Civilization, which are traditionally better suited to mouse and keyboard controls. Others believe that, given Nintendo's track record for innovation, this could lead to novel uses within their first-party software. The possibilities are still up in the air.
While we await more details on potential mouse support and the mysterious new Joy-Con button, we do have some confirmed information about the Nintendo Switch 2. It's officially named the Nintendo Switch 2, set for release in 2025, and a new Mario Kart game is in development for the system. The console will be backward compatible with the original Switch, and more details about upcoming software will be shared at a Direct in April. You can find all our comprehensive coverage on the Nintendo Switch 2 right here.