Following the Nintendo Switch 2 reveal, enthusiasts have fixated on a subtle detail from the trailer: the Joy-Cons. In particular, their apparent function as mouse-like controllers, reminiscent of PC peripherals, and their distinct movement in the footage. We now have official clarification on their capability: the Joy-Cons support a "mouse mode," enabling players to glide them across flat surfaces while using the analog sticks to emulate left-click and right-click inputs, much like a traditional mouse. Moreover, two Joy-Cons can operate together in mouse mode—one in each hand—or you can pair one in mouse mode with another in standard mode. Essentially, the possibilities are wide open.
Nintendo Direct: Nintendo Switch 2 Console Slideshow
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The Nintendo presentation showcased the Joy-Con’s mouse mode functionality through a sports title inspired by Rocket League, featuring robot athletes maneuvering in wheelchair-like vehicles. This game, named Drag and Drive, is structured as a three-on-three basketball match. To play, users control two Joy-Con controllers in mouse mode, propelling their character across the arena to score baskets.
Speculation about the Joy-Con mouse feature began as soon as the reveal trailer debuted, which showed the controllers sliding around like standard PC mice. In pursuit of more details, we approached Firaxis, the developer behind Civilization 7, and received an enigmatic reply. Innovations like this, along with the newly introduced C button, have driven discussions about the console in recent weeks—especially as counterpoints to claims that the Nintendo Switch 2 was taking a "safe" approach compared to Nintendo’s typical boldness.
You can review all the announcements from today’s Nintendo Switch 2 Direct here.
