Why the Nintendo Switch 2 is Fertile Ground for an…

The Nintendo Switch 2 will be continuing its predecessor's integration of motion controls, and will be taking the concept to even greater heights. With the details Nintendo has released about the Switch 2's motion controls, the system has the potential to revive one Star Wars game concept.

The Switch 2's hardware will see many improvements compared to its predecessor, such as heightened specs and a better stand. Among these enhancements, however, are some better motion controls. The main selling point of this range is the mouse functionality, with both Joy-Cons able to take on such an adaptation. Moreover, those that have been able to try out the console have lauded its improved responsiveness, and more elaborate methods of integration, allowing the controllers to take on a feel akin to the Wii's nunchucks.

Nintendo Switch 2 May Have One Ace Up Its Sleeve

The Nintendo Switch 2 is right around the corner, and as it nears release, Nintendo could leverage its power in a community it has often avoided.

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By Matt Anderson

The Switch 2's Motion Controls Could Redeem Kinect Star Wars' Concept

Nintendo's Switch motion controls have been a point of some debate among fans, though they've not been intrusive enough to ignite much controversy. Games such as Ring Fit Adventure, which takes advantage of the system's unique motion tech, were well-received, whereas titles like LABO and ARMS have been more-or-less left by the wayside. Other than some frustration with bits of obtrusive motion control inclusion, such as the gating of certain moves behind these controls in Super Mario Odyssey, there otherwise hasn't been too much discussion on the subject.

On the other hand, the Switch 2's new and improved tech has sparked more than a little interest, and could provide a great foundation for even more new experiments. While Nintendo's motion control-heavy Switch games mostly stuck to the realm of new IPs, a licensed title could be perfect here. Since Nintendo is leading with Metroid Prime 4 for its more elaborate motion technology, another sci-fi franchise could work well here—in particular, the Star Wars universe would be a great match. With the series' emphasis on Lightsaber fights and Force powers, a new attempt at mixing the IP with motion controls would be at home on the Switch 2.

A Motion-Controlled Star Wars Game Hasn't Been Properly Explored

When it comes to motion-controlled Star Wars titles, Kinect Star Wars and its memes come to mind first. Whether it's the comical Just Dance-esque sequences or the spotty Lightsaber controls, the title fell short of what should've been a home-run idea. However, there's a reason the game was so hyped-up prior to its release: fans want to enter the world of Star Wars in a more physical way. Lightsabers are an obvious point, but the telepathic motions of Force powers are ingrained into culture, and many players would love to take on these powers in a videogame, be it through traditional motion controls or VR.

Motion controls still aren't perfect, but they've come far since the release of Kinect Star Wars. For instance, the original Switch's HD Rumble would be a godsend to any potential Star Wars title, especially when it comes to Lightsaber combat. It's surprising to see that Nintendo hasn't really tried to make a sword-fighting title on the Switch with motion controls, as this system would really help suggest weight and enhance realism. It would also improve the way a clash feels, and the development of motion control responsiveness over the years would give this idea a chance to feel truly kinetic and exciting.

Moreover, the dual system of the two Joy-Cons would not only be perfect for mixing Lightsaber combat and Force powers, but motion controls are also great for general Force puzzles. In particular, mixing the different Joy-Con forms, such as the mouse form, would be a great way to create motion-oriented Force puzzles that take advantage of the series' many different abilities.

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