Nintendo Switch 2 New Joy-Con and Pro Controller Patent Strongly Suggests Mouse Functionality
A newly published patent from Nintendo offers the clearest evidence yet that the Nintendo Switch 2’s Joy-Con controllers—and possibly its Pro Controller—may feature a mouse-like control scheme. The filing, made public on February 6, includes documentation and drawings that outline how the hardware may function in a PC mouse capacity, potentially enabling more traditional aiming and interface navigation for genres like first-person shooters and real-time strategy games.
Patent Highlights and Drawings
Within the patent, one image depicts two Joy-Con controllers:
Left Joy-Con used in a standard handheld manner.
Right Joy-Con repurposed as a PC-style mouse, enabling cursor-like movement.
Another figure alludes to a dual-mouse configuration, allowing both Joy-Cons to serve as mouse-like input devices. Additionally, the new Pro Controller is shown with two detachable halves that can also act independently for cursor control—mimicking the split design of Joy-Cons but with a more traditional Pro Controller form factor.
Industry Speculation and Hints
Hints about mouse functionality for the new Switch 2 controllers have circulated for months. Nintendo teased something along those lines in a reveal trailer for the console, whereas Civilization VII executive producer Dennis Shirk commented that Nintendo is “doing something very cool” with the console’s new controller—suggesting it might offer a built-in alternative to typical “sticks-only” control schemes. Such a feature would let console owners seamlessly replicate PC-like input for strategy and simulation titles without relying on external accessories.
While the patent presents a strong indication, patents do not always translate into released features. However, this one aligns with multiple rumors and developer comments, raising the likelihood that Joy-Cons and the Pro Controller will indeed include mouse functionality. Nintendo has announced a dedicated Nintendo Direct event for April 2, where more details about the Switch 2 hardware could surface—including how its new controllers might differ from the original Switch’s design and capabilities.
Would the addition of built-in mouse-like controls for the Switch 2 make it more appealing, especially for genres like shooters and strategy games? Share how you think this potential feature could reshape console gaming.
