Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con: Now with Mouse Functionality

Ever since the reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans have been buzzing with excitement over a subtle yet intriguing detail from the trailer: the Joy-Cons and their potential use as mouse controllers, much like on a PC. The speculation has finally been put to rest with official confirmation from Nintendo. The Joy-Cons can indeed operate in "mouse mode," allowing players to slide them across flat surfaces and use the analog sticks to simulate left-click and right-click actions, mimicking a standard mouse. Moreover, gamers can use two Joy-Cons in mouse mode simultaneously, one in each hand, or combine one in standard mode with the other in mouse mode, offering versatile gameplay options.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The capabilities of the Joy-Con in mouse mode were showcased during a Nintendo stream through a sports game reminiscent of Rocket League, called "Drag and Drive." This three-on-three basketball game features robot characters using wheelchair-style vehicles. Players navigate their characters across the court using two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode, aiming to score by sinking the ball into the basket.

The reveal trailer had already sparked theories about the Joy-Con's mouse-like functionality, with the controllers visibly sliding around. In an attempt to gather more details, we reached out to Firaxis, the developer behind Civilization 7, but received a cryptic response. This, along with the new C button, has fueled discussions about the Nintendo Switch 2 over the past month. These features have served as a strong counterargument to those who felt the console was playing it too "safe" compared to Nintendo's traditionally innovative approach.

For those who missed it, you can catch up on all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct right here.