Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons Support Weird Configuration

Summary

The Switch 2 Joy-Cons can be attached to the console in reverse, with the controllers facing away from the screen.
This weird configuration could have some gimmicky in-game applications.

The Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Cons can be attached in reverse, facing away from the handheld's screen. The weird configuration appears to be a side effect of the console's new magnetic connection mechanism, with some fans even speculating that it could have fringe applications in Switch 2 games.

Nintendo has been trying to commercialize magnetic controllers since the first Switch, whose successor will finally make that ambition a reality. By embracing a magnetic connection over physical rails, the upcoming console promises easier attachment and detachment, as well as less wear and tear, on account of having fewer moving parts in contact with one another. The strong magnets used by the Switch 2 also automatically guide each Joy-Con into the perfect position, reducing chances of user error.

Docked Nintendo Switch 2 displaying largely obscured Fast Fusion 2x1 composite

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By Dominik Bošnjak

One particular user error scenario will apparently still be possible: the Switch 2 Joy-Cons can be connected to the opposite sides of the device—the right Joy-Con into the left slot, and vice versa. However, they still need to be attached in the correct orientation, meaning this reversed setup will only be possible if the entire console is flipped around. In that case, the Joy-Con buttons would be facing the same direction as the back of the console, as recently noted by Reddit user EJake_.

Reverse Switch 2 Joy-Con Configuration Could Have In-Game Applications

Based on the social media reactions to this discovery, some Nintendo fans seem convinced that this weird controller configuration was made possible on purpose because of its potential to have applications in Switch 2 games. "This is so going to be a Zelda puzzle," wrote Reddit user Spattzzzzz. Others opined that reversing the console's controllers could be a Pokemon evolution requirement gimmick. Another inventive application was shared by Reddit user Corticalization, who described a multiplayer game concept where one person is playing the console in reverse, while another is facing the screen and telling them what to do.

The ability to attach to the console in reverse is far from the only new feature offered by the upcoming controllers. The Switch 2 Joy-Cons will also support mouse-like functionality, in addition to offering bigger analog sticks and shoulder buttons.

Some recent patent activity also suggests that the analog sticks will use a different movement detection mechanism that is less prone to wear and tear, likely as an attempt to deal with the infamous drifting issues plaguing the original Joy-Cons. However, this won't be known for certain until the console hits the market on June 5 and its first teardowns are performed. The Switch 2 will retail for $449.99, whereas extra Joy-Con 2 pairs will be offered for $94.99 in the U.S.

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