Nintendo is one of the most innovative and successful gaming companies in the world, and its flagship console, the Nintendo Switch, has been a huge hit among gamers of all ages and preferences. The Switch offers a unique hybrid experience that allows players to enjoy games on the big screen or on the go, with detachable Joy-Con controllers that can be used in various ways.
However, as technology evolves and competition increases, Nintendo is always looking for ways to improve its products and offer new experiences to its fans. That’s why many people are eagerly anticipating the announcement of the Nintendo Switch 2, the rumoured successor to the Switch that could take gaming to the next level.
While Nintendo has not officially confirmed the existence of the Switch 2, a recently published patent may have given us a glimpse of what the new console could look like and how it could work. Here are some of the key details and features revealed by the patent, and what they could mean for the future of Nintendo gaming.
Contents
How Does the New Design Differ From the Original Switch?
The patent’s redesigned button arrangement for the console is the most obvious alteration. A handheld device featuring two shoulder buttons on top, four face buttons on the right, and a single joystick on the left is depicted in the patent.
The original Switch included two joysticks, four face buttons, a four-direction d-pad, and four more buttons (plus, minus, home, and capture) on the front. This is a big change from the current Switch.
A USB-C connector, two speakers, and the relocation of the home and capture buttons to the device’s bottom are also depicted in the patent. The device’s top features a volume rocker, power button, headphone jack, and cartridge slot, just like the original Switch.
Contrary to the original Switch, which features detachable Joy-Con controllers that can be used alone or coupled to a grip or a dock, the patent reveals that the device is an all-in-one item.
This suggests that the system may be more like the Nintendo Switch Lite, a less expensive and portable version of the Switch that can only be used in handheld mode.
A new Nintendo Switch 2 patent seemingly was discovered. It describes improving its button placement for a possible larger display:
A new Nintendo Switch 2 patent seemingly was discovered. It describes improving its button placement for a possible larger display:
“To make the portable gaming device more compact or to increase the area of the display, there is room to improve the button placement of the… pic.twitter.com/AQpIl6wbqi
— JayWood2010 (@JayWood2010) October 18, 2023
Will the Switch 2 Still Have Hybrid Functionality?
This does not imply that the Switch 2 will lose its hybrid capabilities, though. The patent also suggests that the right side of the gadget may have a touchpad or another joystick for controlling directional movement.
This might enable users to utilize both hands for more intricate games that demand finer control. The patent also leaves open the potential of using Bluetooth or USB-C to link the gadget to external controllers or accessories.
This could enable players to use different types of controllers for different games or modes, such as motion controllers, steering wheels, keyboards, mice, etc. Therefore, it is possible that the Switch 2 will still offer a versatile and adaptable gaming experience that can suit different preferences and situations.
What is a Pressure-sensitive Touch Screen and How Will It Enhance Gameplay?
Another interesting feature revealed by the patent is a pressure-sensitive touchscreen display. This means that the device could detect how hard or soft players touch or press on the screen, and respond accordingly. This could open up new possibilities for gameplay interactions and feedback, such as:
- Simulating physical sensations such as weight, texture, temperature, etc.
- Providing different options or outcomes depending on how hard or soft players touch or press on the screen
- Enhancing accuracy and responsiveness for games that rely on touch input
- Creating more immersive and realistic experiences for games that use touch as a main mechanic
A pressure-sensitive touch screen could also complement other features of the device, such as motion sensors, gyroscopes, cameras, microphones, speakers, etc., to create a more holistic and engaging gaming experience.
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When Can We Expect to See the Switch 2 in Stores?
While the patent does not reveal any information about when or if Nintendo will release the Switch 2, some industry insiders and analysts have speculated that it could happen as soon as 2024. This would align with Nintendo’s usual console cycle of releasing a new generation every five to six years.
However, there are also some factors that could delay or affect the release date of the Switch 2. For instance:
- The ongoing global chip shortage that has affected many electronics manufacturers
- The strong sales and popularity of the original Switch and its variants
- The uncertainty and challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic
- The competition from other gaming platforms such as Sony’s PlayStation 5 and Microsoft’s Xbox Series X/S
Therefore, it is possible that Nintendo will wait until it has enough supply and demand for its new console before launching it to the market. Alternatively, Nintendo could surprise everyone by announcing and releasing it sooner than expected.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch 2 patent reveals some exciting details about what could be Nintendo’s next big innovation in gaming. The patent shows a new design with a single joystick and four face buttons on a handheld device that could also have a pressure-sensitive touch screen and an input for controlling directional movement.
These functions could expand the device’s hybrid functionality and provide new ways to play and interact with games. The patent, however, does not vouch for or guarantee the finished item. Nintendo reserves the right to alter or cancel its plans at any time or to present its fans with additional surprises.
Therefore, it is best to take the patent with a grain of salt and wait for official announcements from Nintendo before getting too hyped or disappointed. In the meantime, players can still enjoy the original Switch and its vast library of games, as well as look forward to upcoming titles such as The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild 2, Metroid Dread, Splatoon 3, and more.
What do you think of the Nintendo Switch 2 patent? Are you excited or worried about the new design and features? Let us know in the comments below.
