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 flat-bottomed connectors and moving like a mouse on a mousepad. A possible slider pad is visible on one connector, adding to the speculation.

Pre-reveal rumors suggested this functionality stemmed from an internal sensor, 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 Switch 2's potential mouse functionality sparked interest regarding Civilization 7. While already confirmed for the original Switch, a bespoke Switch 2 version utilizing this new control scheme was considered.

In an IGN interview, Civilization 7's executive producer, Dennis Shirk, offered an intriguing response regarding the 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 won't announce a dedicated Switch 2 version, 2K Games likely will. An April Switch 2 Direct might shed light on this and other uncertainties, including the new Joy-Con button's function. The Switch 2's release is anticipated for 2025 (likely June-September), with a new Mario Kart title in development. Further details can be found in our comprehensive Switch 2 coverage.