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. Speculation was rife about their potential use as mouse controllers, much like on a PC, due to the way they were shown moving in the trailer. Now, we have official confirmation on their functionality: the Joy-Cons can 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, similar to a standard mouse. What's more, gamers can use two Joy-Cons in mouse mode simultaneously, either with one in each hand or one in standard mode and the other in mouse mode, offering a versatile gameplay experience.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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The Nintendo Direct stream showcased the capabilities of the Joy-Con in mouse mode through a sports game reminiscent of Rocket League, featuring robot characters navigating in wheelchair-style vehicles. This game, titled "Drag and Drive," is a three-on-three basketball game where players use two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode to maneuver their characters around the levels, aiming to score by sinking the ball into the basket.
The reveal trailer had already sparked fan theories about the Joy-Con's mouse-like functionality, with the controllers seen sliding in a manner similar to PC mice. In an attempt to gather more information, inquiries were made to Firaxis, the developers of Civilization 7, but their response was cryptic, adding to the mystery and excitement. Features like the Joy-Con's mouse mode and the new C button have fueled discussions about the console over the past month, countering criticisms that the Nintendo Switch 2 was playing it too "safe" compared to Nintendo's traditionally adventurous approach.
For those eager to learn more, you can find all the details announced at today's Nintendo Switch 2 Direct right here.
