Since the reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans have been buzzing with excitement over a small but intriguing detail spotted in the trailer: the Joy-Cons. The speculation centered around their potential use as mouse controllers, similar to those used on PCs, based on their movement in the trailer. Now, we have official confirmation on their functionality: the Joy-Cons can indeed operate in "mouse mode." This innovative feature allows players to slide the Joy-Cons across flat surfaces, using the analog sticks to simulate left-click and right-click actions, much like a traditional mouse. Moreover, gamers can use two Joy-Cons in mouse mode simultaneously, one in each hand, or pair one in standard mode with the other in mouse mode, offering versatile control options that enhance gameplay. In essence, the possibilities are endless.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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The Nintendo stream showcased the capabilities of the Joy-Con in mouse mode through a dynamic sports game reminiscent of Rocket League, featuring robot characters in wheelchair-style vehicles. Named "Drag and Drive," this game is a thrilling three-on-three basketball challenge. Players utilize two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode to navigate their characters across the court, aiming to score by sinking the ball into the basket.
The Joy-Con's mouse-like functionality sparked widespread discussion among fans ever since it was hinted at in the reveal trailer, where the controllers were seen gliding across surfaces in a manner akin to PC mice. In an attempt to gather more details, inquiries were made to Firaxis, the developer behind Civilization 7, but their response was intriguingly vague. This feature, along with the newly introduced C button, has fueled extensive conversations about the Nintendo Switch 2, particularly as a counterargument to the notion that the console was playing it "safe" compared to Nintendo's typically bold innovations.
For a comprehensive overview of all the announcements from the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, you can find the details right here.