Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Now Supports Mouse Mode: Features Revealed

Since the thrilling reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, the gaming community has been abuzz with excitement, particularly about a fascinating feature hinted at in the trailer: the innovative use of Joy-Cons as mouse controllers. The speculation has now been put to rest with the official announcement that the Joy-Cons can indeed function in a "mouse mode." This unique feature allows players to glide the Joy-Cons over flat surfaces, using the analog sticks to mimic left-click and right-click actions, much like a conventional mouse. What's more, the versatility extends to using two Joy-Cons simultaneously in mouse mode, one in each hand, or pairing one in standard mode with the other in mouse mode. This opens up a world of interactive possibilities for gamers.

Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow

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The Nintendo Direct stream showcased the potential of the Joy-Con's mouse mode through an engaging sports game called "Drag and Drive." Styled after Rocket League, this game features robot characters maneuvering in wheelchair-style vehicles in a thrilling three-on-three basketball competition. Players need to use two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode to navigate their characters and aim for the basket, adding a layer of strategic gameplay.

The buzz around the Joy-Con mouse feature began with the initial reveal trailer, where the controllers were seen gliding much like PC mice. In our quest for more details, we reached out to Firaxis, the developers behind Civilization 7, and received an intriguing, albeit cryptic, response. Such innovative features, along with the new C button, have sparked lively discussions over the past month. They serve as a compelling counterargument to those who felt the Nintendo Switch 2 was playing it "safe," reinforcing Nintendo's reputation for pushing the boundaries of gaming technology.

For a comprehensive overview of all the exciting announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, be sure to check out the full coverage [ttpp].