Nintendo Switch 2 Patent Suggests Joy-Cons Can be Rotated and the Console Played Upside Down

A newly surfaced Nintendo patent hints at a fascinating feature for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2: reversible Joy-Con controllers. As reported by VGC, the patent details a system mirroring smartphone functionality, allowing gyro controls to adapt to the device's orientation, regardless of how the Joy-Cons are attached. Instead of the original Switch's rails, the new controllers appear to utilize magnets, enabling attachment to either side.

This seemingly small change offers significant potential. Players gain the flexibility to reposition buttons and the headphone jack for optimal comfort and gameplay. The patent explicitly states, "The user can use the game system by mounting the right controller and the left controller on the opposite side to the main body device," highlighting the adaptability. It further notes the ability to invert the console, positioning the headphone jack for convenient access. Such flexibility could even inspire innovative gameplay mechanics.

While the hardware implications are minimal, the impact on user experience could be substantial. We'll likely see a full unveiling of this feature, along with other details, during the special Nintendo Direct event on April 2nd at 6am Pacific / 9am Eastern / 2pm UK time.

With hands-on events scheduled until June and publisher Nacon suggesting a pre-September release for Greedfall 2 on the new console, a June-September launch window for the Nintendo Switch 2 seems increasingly plausible, although Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed a release date. The January reveal trailer showcased backwards compatibility and a second USB-C port, leaving many other features, including the purpose of a mysterious new Joy-Con button, shrouded in secrecy.