The Nintendo Switch 2 is a big upgrade over the original console. It supports 4K visuals in docked mode, can run games at 120 frames-per-second and has HDR support. The device itself is also bigger than the original model, while the JoyCons have multiple improvements such as magnetic attachments and bigger buttons.
However, my favourite thing about the Nintendo Switch 2 is the mouse functionality for the JoyCons. Players can instantly enter mouse mode by placing a sideways JoyCon on a flat surface. It’s perfect for aiming in first-person games like Metroid Prime 4, and will also be used in unique ways in titles such as Drag X Drive and Super Mario Party Jamboree.
Interestingly, the Switch 2 mouse controller has one advantage over a traditional mouse peripheral you might use with your PC.
READ MORE: Where to pre-order the Nintendo Switch 2 in the UK
In the Drag X Drive tutorial, the game confirms that you can use the mouse controller on your legs if you’re not sat at a table.
The game suggests rolling the mouse controllers on your legs to move forward and make turns when controlling your character’s wheelchair.
This isn’t something you can typically do with a mouse for PC, which usually only work on a flat surface and with a mouse mat.
It will be interesting to see how well this works for precision aiming in games like Metroid Prime 4, but it’s good to know that you can use the mouse controller in certain games while sitting on the sofa.
You’ll be able to check out the mouse controller for yourself when the Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5. Drag X Drive, meanwhile, releases in summer 2025.
The Nintendo Switch 2 release date was announced during a recent Direct conference, alongside a boatload of new games.
The new Nintendo console will launch on June 5, alongside games like Mario Kart World, Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Fortnite, and Hogwarts Legacy.
Additional first and third-party games will be available in the weeks and months after launch, including Donkey Kong Bananza on July 17 and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond later in the year.
Nintendo will also release enhanced versions of existing Switch games, including upgraded editions of Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom.
The Switch 2 Enhanced games will feature improved visuals, smoother frame-rates and in some cases and new content.
Breath of the Wild, for example, comes with a companion app that provides information about each area and an improved map.