The excitement surrounding the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal this morning has reignited rumors about the potential use of Joy-Cons as a mouse. During the reveal trailer, a compelling scene showed a pair of detached Joy-Cons being lowered onto a surface, attachment side down. They connected to a pair of connectors with flat bottoms and then smoothly slid across the surface, much like a mouse on a mouse pad. A closer look even revealed what appears to be a slider pad on the bottom of one of the connectors, lending further credence to the mouse functionality theory.
Leading up to the reveal, rumors suggested that a sensor inside the Joy-Cons, similar to that found in a computer mouse, could enable this feature. However, Nintendo has yet to officially confirm these speculations or clarify what this functionality might mean for gamers. Enthusiasts have speculated that this could enhance the gameplay experience for titles like Civilization, which traditionally benefit from mouse and keyboard controls. Others believe that, given Nintendo's history of innovation, this feature could be integrated into new and creative ways within their first-party software. The possibilities remain open-ended at this point.
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, with a release slated for 2025. A new Mario Kart game is in development for the system, and it will be backward compatible with the original Switch. More details about the upcoming software lineup will be shared during a Direct in April. You can stay updated with all our Nintendo Switch 2 coverage right here.