The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons may have a new gimmick

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Summary

  • The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons may be able to work in a mouse-like mode.

  • Mentions of tape normally used on the bottom of computer mice have recently been found in some shipping manifests believed to be associated with one of Nintendo's parts suppliers.

  • The Switch 2 wouldn't be the first handheld console to offer a mouse-like alternate mode for (one of) its controllers, as Lenovo's Legion GO already did the same in 2023.

The Nintendo Switch 2 The Joy-Cons may be able to function as computer mice of various kinds, according to some recent indications. While it's doubtful that a mouse-like controller mode would gain widespread use among game developers, the claimed feature seems to fit Nintendo's track record of experimentation.

The evidence pointing to this possibility was shared by Famiboards user LiC, who previously obtained some Vietnamese customs data detailing shipments associated with a company believed to be one of Nintendo's parts suppliers. This intelligence turned out to be a goldmine of information and is the source of many Switch 2 rumors and speculations that have appeared online since mid-2024.

Nintendo Switch 2 mockup over blurred Gotham Knights cover art

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In early January 2025, LiC returned to Famiboards to share another potential insight into the upcoming device, revealing that they had previously discovered mention of a polyethylene (PE) tape described in customs manifests as intended “to stick to the handle of the game console .” Shipping data reportedly labels these pieces of tape as “mussels,” a term normally used for the lower part of a computer mouse. Thus, the mention of mice soles in a potential Switch 2 parts list indicates that the upcoming console could mimic mouse-like functionality.

LiC has discovered references to two mussel model numbers: LG7 and SML7. Game Rant was unable to find these designations in any public component databases, suggesting that if they are real, they belong to brand new products that have yet to be released. Data obtained by LiC indicates that both pieces of plastic tape are 90 x 90 mm in size. Based on the previously leaked Switch 2 dimensions, these sheets appear large enough to cover the entire back of the new Joy-Cons, and then some. However, since they have a square aspect ratio, additional trimming will likely be required before they are applied during assembly – assuming LiC's information is legitimate.

The Nintendo Switch 2 wouldn't be the first console with mouse control mode

While a mouse-like controller mode is in line with Nintendo's historical tendency to experiment, this type of technology has already been commercialized. The right controller of the Lenovo Legion GO can also function as a mouse when rotated sideways into a joystick-like shape. Lenovo even provides a circular piece of plastic to house the controller in this position and help it slide across surfaces more efficiently.

Lenovo's 2024 handheld PC also has magnetic rails to easily attach controllers, which is another feature the Switch 2 is rumored to have. In this sense, Legion GO could provide a glimpse of what Nintendo's second attempt at a hybrid console will look like.

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