Early Switch 2 Peripherals Let You Make ‘Vroom, Vroom’ Sounds

Although we are still four months away from the official launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, accessory manufacturers are already making moves to capture the excitement surrounding this highly anticipated console. The latest trailer hints at a brand-new Mario Kart game that will come with the next-gen dockable handheld. One accessory maker is poised to elevate your racing experience by allowing you to drive with your JoyCons in a stylish and immersive way.

On Friday, Nintendo Life highlighted the innovative peripherals developed by accessory maker Nacon. Among these offerings is a steering wheel designed for the new JoyCons, priced at €29.90 (approximately $30). This steering wheel utilizes suction cups to securely attach to your desk or table, providing stability during those intense racing moments in an as-yet-unannounced mascot-themed kart racer. Notably, it features two distinct modes: one for standing and another for flat use, a unique advantage not commonly found in similar products. However, this design echoes the original Switch accessories that included motion controls in their JoyCons.

The preliminary designs of the Switch 2 controllers do not closely resemble Nintendo’s recently showcased device, particularly in the joystick area, which appears to lack the prominent overlapping bezel seen in previous models. This suggests that these designs may have been created based on specifications shared with peripheral makers before the official announcement of the Switch sequel. In addition to the steering wheel, Nacon is also developing silicon-inserted covers for the JoyCons, external covers for the Switch 2, and a convenient carrying case to enhance the gaming experience.

The early leaks from Nacon have further fueled the speculation among fans regarding the impending release of a sequel to Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Although the game made a brief appearance in the Switch 2 reveal trailer, fans are excitedly discussing the possibility of having up to 24 racers on the track simultaneously. Additionally, many have pointed out that Donkey Kong’s character model appears to be more aligned with his portrayal in the Super Mario Bros. Movie than in the nearly eight-year-old iteration of the kart racing game.

Thanks to their own leaks, we are also aware that companies like Dbrand, Genki, and many other smaller brands are preparing to unveil their own accessories for the Switch 2. Dbrand’s Killswitch case is particularly noteworthy, featuring a cover and an additional kickstand that complements the U-shaped stand of the Switch 2.

Genki’s initial images are intriguing, especially since they showcased early mockups of the new JoyCons, which closely resemble what Nintendo officially revealed on January 16, complete with blue and red accents around the joysticks. Moreover, Genki has introduced a charging dock capable of accommodating two pairs of JoyCons simultaneously, catering to the needs of avid gamers.

VIDEO — La Nintendo Switch 2 en avant-première au #CES2025.

L’accessoiriste Genki indique posséder la vraie console et expose une maquette 3D + des accessoires.

Les détails ici : https://t.co/5LDlnR2zC1 pic.twitter.com/IJ6taQggIQ

— Numerama (@Numerama) January 8, 2025

Developers Criticize Switch 2 Leakers for Spoiling Surprises

While we have seen a plethora of third-party cases emerging due to numerous early device mock-up leaks, there remains a significant lack of information regarding any new functionalities for the Switch 2 JoyCons or the console itself. Based on the footage shared by Nintendo, we can only speculate that these innovative controllers might function similarly to a mouse when gliding across a surface. Additionally, we are eager to learn whether the Switch 2 dock enhances the graphical capabilities of the handheld console. Rumors abound that the Switch 2 could support stunning 4K resolution while docked, making it a powerful gaming device.

The uncertainty surrounding these developments continues to fuel excitement, rather than dampening the experience as some developers might fear. Recently, Hideki Kamiya, the original director of Bayonetta and the current lead on an upcoming Okami sequel, expressed his disdain for the leakers on Twitter. In a machine-translated post, he lamented, “I hope that all those who leaked Switch 2 information will be cursed for the rest of their lives to have poo on the soles of their shoes whenever they go home.”

Kamiya continued his critique, emphasizing that while he enjoys sharing surprises like the Okami announcement with fans, he believes that leakers prioritize their own satisfaction over the community’s enjoyment. He argued that their actions result in lost opportunities and do not contribute positively to the gaming landscape, leaving them with little to be proud of.

Similarly, former Nintendo PR manager Krysta Yang shared her thoughts on her YouTube channel alongside fellow ex-Nintendo staff member Kit Ellis. She asserted her belief that Nintendo is “really mad… very, very, very upset” about the leaks, which hinder the company’s ability to surprise its audience. Ellis added that Nintendo’s usual strategies for controlling information dissemination have fallen short, and the leaks have been exacerbated by the company’s mindset that they could maintain complete control over their announcements.

Nintendo has been diligently working on the Switch 2 for several years, yet they only provided minimal information during this period. The company was ultimately compelled to acknowledge the console’s existence through their corporate channels for the sake of investors, rather than to cater to fans. Nintendo’s reticent communication style has led to a heightened sense of anticipation among those outside their inner circle. If anyone should reflect on their actions regarding the leaks, it’s Nintendo themselves, who may need to examine their own strategies first.