Civilization 7 Dev Firaxis Remains Coy on Nintendo Switch 2 ‘Mouse’ Joy-Con

The Nintendo Switch 2 reveal showcased a potential "mouse" mode for the Joy-Cons. A segment in the trailer depicts detached Joy-Cons placed on a surface, connecting to what appear to be flat-bottomed connectors. These then slide across the surface, mimicking mouse movement, with a possible slider pad visible on one connector.

Pre-reveal rumors suggested this functionality, attributing it to a sensor inside the Joy-Cons similar to those in computer mice. However, Nintendo hasn't officially confirmed this feature or its implications.

Nintendo Switch 2 - First Look

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The reveal sparked speculation about potential game adaptations, particularly Firaxis' Civilization 7. While already confirmed for the original Switch, a dedicated Switch 2 version leveraging the new Joy-Con functionality was considered. In an interview with IGN, Civilization 7's executive producer, Dennis Shirk, offered an intriguing, albeit non-committal response regarding this possibility: “It is definitely intriguing…You always do some trade-offs when you have to deal with pure console controls. And the announcement has some great stuff in it. I love what they're doing with the controllers. It's all very cool. That's about all I can say about it in terms of an opinion. I think it looks awesome and they're not wrong, so it would be cool for something like that.”

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While Firaxis would likely defer any Switch 2 version announcements to 2K Games, a potential clarification is anticipated during the April Switch 2 Direct. Despite uncertainties surrounding mouse support and a new Joy-Con button, the Switch 2's 2025 release (likely June-September) and a new Mario Kart title are confirmed. Further details on the Nintendo Switch 2 can be found via [link to Nintendo Switch 2 coverage].