When you consider the controls for games like Civilization or shooters like Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, the idea of implementing mouse controls for the Nintendo Switch 2 starts to make a bit of sense. However, the Switch 2 seems to embody a minimalist philosophy, and these mouse controls appear awkward and potentially less efficient than traditional buttons.

Nintendo recently showcased a video demonstrating these controls on the Switch 2’s Home menu through the Nintendo Today app, which is designed to keep users informed with Nintendo news and events. To use the mouse functionality, you merely place the Joy-Con flat on a surface and move it around. While the concept seems straightforward, the execution leaves something to be desired.

In the clip, observed user @Genki_JPN noted an apparent lag or misalignment of the cursor, especially as it transitions from the ‘how to use mouse controls’ tab. This could be indicative of recording errors, but it certainly didn’t garner the best feedback in the PC Gamer office. The UI of the Switch is sparse, with few icons displayed, leading to skepticism regarding whether mouse controls could really provide a better user experience compared to buttons.

Even with proper implementation, the practical use of a mouse in navigating a simplistic interface is questionable; users typically remain in comfortable positions while gaming. Showing the mouse controls in such a lackluster way appears an odd choice by Nintendo, especially after minimal promotional footage prior. Perhaps a simple email could have sufficed to detail this new feature.