Since the reveal of the Nintendo Switch 2, fans have been buzzing with excitement and speculation over a particular detail from the trailer: the innovative use of Joy-Cons as mouse controllers, much like those used on a PC. The anticipation has now been met with official confirmation that the Joy-Cons can indeed operate in "mouse mode." This feature allows players to slide the Joy-Cons across flat surfaces, using the analog sticks to simulate left-click and right-click actions, mimicking a standard mouse. Moreover, 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, offering gamers a range of interactive possibilities.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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During the Nintendo Direct stream, the capabilities of the Joy-Con in mouse mode were vividly demonstrated through a sports game reminiscent of Rocket League, called "Drag and Drive." This three-on-three basketball game features robot characters navigating in wheelchair-style vehicles. Players must utilize two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode to maneuver their characters across the court and aim to score baskets, showcasing the practical application of this new feature.
The speculation about the Joy-Con's mouse functionality began with the initial reveal trailer, where the controllers were seen gliding across surfaces in a manner similar to PC mice. In an attempt to gather more details, inquiries were made to Firaxis, the developer behind Civilization 7, though their response was intriguingly cryptic. Features like the Joy-Con mouse mode and the new C button have fueled discussions about the Nintendo Switch 2 over the past month, countering critiques that the console was playing it "safe" and lacking Nintendo's signature adventurous spirit.
For those eager to stay updated, you can find all the announcements from today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct right here.
