Nintendo’s upcoming Switch 2 boasts a surprising new feature: native mouse support through its Joy-Con 2 controllers. Beyond boosting precision in genres like shooters – where it already appears to offer advantages over gyro controls in titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Red Dead Redemption – this functionality promises to reshape gameplay across a variety of titles,and even revive classic control schemes. Currently supported in 42 games, including strategy titles and those utilizing mouse control for unique gameplay mechanics like the rhythm games in Bravely default Flying Fairy HD Remaster, the potential applications detailed below demonstrate a deliberate effort to bridge the gap between console and PC gaming experiences.
Beyond improved graphics and frame rates, one of the most significant features of Nintendo’s new console is the ability to use the Joy-Con 2 controllers as computer mice. This functionality, even when used simultaneously with both controllers, opens up a range of new possibilities for gameplay and interaction.
Currently, 42 titles support mouse mode on the console, including the four classic Super Nintendo games that were originally compatible with a mouse peripheral.
Real-World Applications of Mouse Mode
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The implementation of mouse control mirrors its functionality in PC gaming, but Nintendo’s approach offers unique advantages. Let’s explore how this feature is being utilized.
Shooter Games
Several shooter titles, such as Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Fortnite, Red Dead Redemption, and the recently released Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, leverage mouse mode for aiming, mirroring the experience on PC.
This provides a level of precision that surpasses even gyro controls. This gives the genre a distinct advantage on Nintendo Switch 2, eliminating the need for external peripherals – a common requirement on other consoles. Nintendo has natively integrated this functionality into its controllers.
This is perhaps the most obvious and impactful application. Beyond current titles, games like those in the Call of Duty franchise, and especially Splatoon 4 (when announced), will likely benefit from this capability.
Furthermore, the benefits extend to any first-person game, where camera control is more effective and comfortable with a mouse. While no such titles are currently available on the new Nintendo Switch 2, the console’s recent launch suggests more are on the horizon.
Strategy Games
Currently, Sid Meier’s Civilization VII – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition, NOBUNAGA’S AMBITION Awakening Complete Edition, and the classic SNES title Nobunaga’s Ambition support mouse mode.
This genre was originally designed with computer mice in mind, making console ports historically less popular due to clunky controller adaptations. The Joy-Con 2’s mouse mode resolves this issue, simplifying unit selection and overall control.
More titles are expected in the future, with a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Pikmin 4 (and the rest of the franchise) being a highly anticipated possibility.
Mouse as Cursor
This is arguably the most versatile and straightforward application of mouse mode. It grants players greater freedom in tasks like painting, grabbing and moving objects, selecting screen elements, and other similar actions.
This functionality is already present in titles like Puyo Puyo Tetris 2S, Estudio de videojuegos, and the DK Artist mode in Donkey Kong Bananza. The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Animal Crossing: New Horizons will also utilize this functionality for interior and exterior decorating, pattern creation, and handwritten messages.
A game that would greatly benefit from mouse mode would be Super Mario Maker, whether a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition of Super Mario Maker 2 or a completely new installment.
More Original Uses
Beyond adapting traditional PC controls, several titles demonstrate the unique potential of dual mice.
The first example comes from the two new minigames included in BRAVELY DEFAULT FLYING FAIRY HD Remaster, specifically designed for the Joy-Con 2. Both utilize two mice simultaneously in an intuitive and dynamic way: one is a rhythm game requiring independent or simultaneous use of both mice to follow the song, while the other presents a series of simultaneous tasks that maximize the use of both controllers.
Another title with a unique implementation is Drag x Drive. In this game, mouse mode controls the wheels of a wheelchair, combined with motion controls for a unique gameplay experience. It’s one of the few games that alternates between mouse mode (for character movement) and motion controls (for launching or blocking a ball).
Potential Future Applications of Mouse Mode
The full potential of this functionality on Nintendo Switch 2 remains untapped. Numerous genres and ideas could be realized with mouse support. The following are possibilities, though not guarantees.
WarioWare
Given Nintendo’s track record, the next installment in this popular series is likely to fully explore this functionality. The company has consistently innovated with unique console features. We’ve seen a wealth of microgames centered around touch controls, gyro functionality, and motion controls…
When Nintendo announces the next WarioWare title, we can expect them to find creative and original ways to leverage the Joy-Con 2’s mouse mode. Beyond conventional use, they might also utilize the mouse mode’s sensor – a small camera – to play with colors it can capture or similar innovations.
This experimentation could also extend to Mario Party. We’ve already seen inventive ideas in some of the mouse minigames in Super Mario Party Jamboree – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Jamboree TV, and they could introduce even more fresh ideas in a new title specifically designed for Nintendo Switch 2. However, the brevity of WarioWare’s microgames lends itself more readily to experimentation.
Traditional MMOs
Like strategy games, this genre is present on consoles but traditionally designed for computers. The lack of a keyboard can still hinder aspects like chat. However, mouse mode could significantly simplify menu navigation and other gameplay-related tasks, bridging the gap between console comfort and PC precision.
Titles like Palia and Sky: Niños de la Luz are already available on the original Nintendo Switch. However, none currently take advantage of the Nintendo Switch 2’s features, including mouse mode.
Notably, Naoki Yoshida and his team at SQUARE ENIX have expressed interest in bringing FINAL FANTASY XIV Online to Nintendo Switch 2, making a title that fully utilizes the console’s capabilities – including mouse mode – a realistic possibility.
Reviving Touch Controls
Like its predecessor, the Nintendo Switch 2 features a touchscreen. However, mouse mode offers a new approach. It could simulate the touch controls of the Nintendo DS and Nintendo 3DS. This opens two possibilities.
The first, and most direct, is the addition of Nintendo DS (and even Nintendo 3DS) games to Nintendo Classics. The two screens could be configured as in some Wii U setups, allowing for various layouts, including a simulation of the original Nintendo DS or side-by-side screens. And, relevant to this article, touch control would be handled via mouse mode.
The second possibility is reviving series limited by those consoles. New installments of games like Pokémon Ranger, The Legend of Zelda: Spirit Tracks, or Kirby: El Pincel del poder could be created – or at least new games with similar concepts.
Similar to cursor games, mouse mode could replicate functions like selecting, dragging, moving, tracing, and drawing. Few functions are beyond its capabilities.
Racing Simulators
Beyond Mario Kart, more realistic racing games like Forza or Gran Turismo could also benefit from mouse mode. A Joy-Con 2 could be used as a manual gear shifter. Players could even switch between this setup and mouse mode for manual gear changes, combined with motion controls for steering.
This control scheme would offer a realistic experience without the need for expensive and bulky peripherals. While steering wheels and pedals would remain an option, this setup wouldn’t require anything more than the game and console.
The Ultimate Leap to PC Experience?
Nintendo has never shied away from unconventional peripherals. Following the precedent of the Super Nintendo, Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t the first time Nintendo has experimented with mice in its games. Nor is it new to cameras, thanks to the Game Boy Camera, the Nintendo DSi, and the Nintendo 3DS family of consoles.
And, as the image at the beginning of this section shows, Nintendo has also explored keyboards. Thus… could Nintendo take the next step and cater to PC gamers?
A keyboard could be connected via one of the console’s two USB-C ports. This would allow it to be used both docked and in handheld mode, similar to the camera. There are limitations, such as cable length or the need for a wireless connection, but these don’t preclude it as a viable option.
It’s worth remembering that Nintendo has used keyboards on three occasions: the Family BASIC HVC-007 keyboard for the Famicom, the Nintendo GameCube controller with ASCII keyboard used in Phantasy Star Online Episode I & II, and the wireless keyboard for the Nintendo DS in Aprende con Pokémon: aventura entre las teclas. Why would a fourth iteration with Nintendo Switch 2 be unrealistic, even for limited uses?
Undeniably, the combination of mouse mode and a keyboard would make the Nintendo Switch 2 the best console for PC games, regardless of genre.
What are your thoughts? Is there a game you’d like to see become a reality thanks to the Nintendo Switch 2’s mouse mode?
