The upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons feature several enhancements, including a notable addition of mouse functionality that introduces a new gameplay experience for certain titles on the hybrid console. Recently, a developer confirmed that the console will also support USB mice. Koei Tecmo showcased this capability during a presentation of gameplay for their title Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition.
USB Mouse Functionality on the Switch 2
In a nearly 17-minute gameplay demonstration of the grand strategy game, game director and producer Michi Ryu demonstrated the use of the Joy-Con 2 controllers. Initially, he utilized both Joy-Cons for standard controller input, but then transitioned to the mouse input option using the right Joy-Con. When Ryu pressed the SL button on one of the Joy-Cons, a message appeared in the upper left corner of the screen indicating that the input mode had switched to mouse operation. The option to revert to controller input is also available by pressing the SL or SR button again.
“The mouse cursor appears, allowing you to interact as you would with a standard mouse,” Ryu explained while illustrating the mouse functionality with the Joy-Con 2. “This feature mirrors the controls available in the already released Steam version, including left-click, right-click, and scrolling operations.”
In a later segment, Ryu connected a USB mouse to the Switch 2 and continued to play without interruption. Upon connection, a confirmation message appeared again in the upper left corner of the screen. “Once the USB mouse is connected, it takes precedence over the Joy-Con 2,” Ryu noted, adding that players could simultaneously use the Joy-Con for some actions while operating the USB mouse.
Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition, which combines the original 2022 release with all subsequent downloadable content, will be available on the Switch 2 on its launch day, June 5. The game will also be offered on the PS5.
Additionally, the Nintendo Switch 2 will support text-to-speech and live captions in GameChat, and it is anticipated that USB keyboard support will be included as well. While the original Nintendo Switch also allows for the use of USB mice and keyboards, the upcoming console will enhance the experience by making mouse input a core feature of the new Joy-Cons.
