David Bridges
Nintendo consistently prioritizes fun in its gaming experiences, and this ethos extends to their consoles, which aim to bring joy in unique and charming ways. Prior to the launch of the Switch 2, Nintendo has unveiled several quirky yet delightful features that go beyond the standout mouse controls and GameChat. These features are designed to remind gamers that they are not simply using a generic gaming console. For instance, you can even create a melody using your Joy-Cons during the connection screen, showcasing Nintendo’s commitment to innovative and engaging gameplay experiences.
The Switch 2, featuring an elegant new black finish, might initially seem a bit darker compared to Nintendo’s traditionally vibrant consoles, but the true excitement lies beneath the surface. Tech-savvy Nintendo enthusiasts have eagerly analyzed the recently leaked specifications of the Switch 2, confirming that this new console boasts significantly greater power than its predecessor. Among the impressive specs, the Switch 2 will support variable refresh rate (VRR) in handheld mode, achieving up to 120Hz, although this feature will not be available when the console is docked to a TV.
Variable refresh rate technology allows displays to adjust their refresh rate to align with a game’s frames per second (fps), providing a smoother gaming experience. Nintendo has clarified with Nintendo Life that they previously published “incorrect information” regarding VRR support for TVs, and have since updated their communication. Nevertheless, the chatter surrounding VRR and other specifications tends to overlook a crucial point: games are confirmed to operate at a maximum of 60 fps at 4K resolution, with other resolutions offering their own fps standards. Notably, the PlayStation 5 did not incorporate VRR until two years post-launch in 2020, indicating that Nintendo may also introduce updates in the future.
As long as the absence of VRR does not result in significant screen tearing, Nintendo appears to be focusing on the endearing and playful features of the Switch 2. Similar to its predecessor, the new handheld will unveil a host of hidden capabilities upon its launch on June 5. We will continue to share insights and information as we get our hands on the console and explore its full range of features.
Personalize Your Joy-Cons 2 with Custom Side Panels
You will be able to customize the Joy-con 2 side panes like the PS5 faceplates.
Some new panels have already started popping up. pic.twitter.com/0Fv9YRbCa5
— Centro LEAKS (@CentroLeaks) May 5, 2025
The vibrant blue and red accents on the Switch 2 Joy-Cons 2 won’t be your only color choices. Currently, the controllers are only available in black, but users have the ability to remove the small side panels, much like how you can swap fins on the PlayStation 5. Several retailers are already offering replacement panels along with removal tools. It is anticipated that Nintendo will release a wide array of colorful options in the future. If the company plans to produce differently colored controllers, gamers can look forward to a variety of exciting color combinations.
Engage with a Musical Experience on the Controller Connection Screen
The original Switch featured a hidden function on the lock screen that allows players to activate different sounds by pressing various buttons. While not many Switch users were aware of this feature, you—dear reader—are on the verge of discovering that controllers can produce music in the system’s “Change Grip/Order” section found in the main menu. Nintendo has confirmed that different sounds can be generated by pressing the L/R, ZL/ZR, and SL/SR buttons on your connected controller. Additionally, you can even compose a musical scale using these sounds, making it possible for innovative musicians to create tunes. This functionality extends to all first-party controllers, including the Switch 2 Pro controllers and the original Joy-Cons.
In terms of audio, Nintendo has also introduced new sound effects for the main menu. If only they could recreate something as nostalgic as the Wii Shop theme.
Nintendo Today showed off some of the system sounds of the Switch 2!
⁰- There are different sounds for pressing the C Button and for selecting each icon on the HOME Menu.
– A sound also plays when you wake up the docked system from sleep mode. pic.twitter.com/pqnYqER5W7— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) May 18, 2025
Experience Enhanced Navigation with Mouse Controls on the Switch 2
Gamers will enjoy a taste of the PC gaming experience with the inclusion of mouse controls for navigating the Switch 2 main menu using the Joy-Cons 2. This functionality is expected to significantly streamline navigation, particularly in the redesigned eShop. Mouse controls are projected to be a defining characteristic of this handheld console, appearing in a surprising number of games. Titles such as Super Mario Party Jamboree will feature mouse-specific minigames, while the upcoming Drag x Drive will utilize mouse controls for wheelchair-based basketball antics. Games that don’t employ first-person mouse controls—like Cyberpunk 2077 and Metroid Prime 4: Beyond—or real-time strategy games such as Civilization VII will likely adapt mouse controls for menu navigation.
Effortlessly Locate Your Missing Joy-Con with the Switch 2
The original Switch included a Find Controllers feature to assist players in locating a missing Joy-Con, which would chime and vibrate when activated. This functionality has been enhanced for the Switch 2, yet it retains its core purpose. Users can access this feature under the controllers section in the main menu. It is important to note that for this feature to work, the Joy-Con must be paired with the console and possess sufficient battery power to receive signals.
Optimize Battery Life with the Switch 2’s Hidden Setting
Owners of the Switch 2 can activate a feature called “Stop Charging Around 90%,” which is designed to prolong battery health over time. This functionality is commonly found in other devices like smartphones and contributes to maintaining stable battery capacity for a more extended period. While it may reduce undocked playtime, it is advisable to use this feature if you intend to take the handheld device on the go. Although this may seem like a common suggestion, it is worth noting that the Steam Deck only introduced a similar battery maximum charge limit feature recently through its latest beta update.
Effortlessly Access and Share Screenshots with the Switch App
Nintendo aims to enhance social interactions through its new GameShare feature, a primary method for connecting with friends and sharing memorable in-game moments. Users will now have the ability to send their friends in-game screenshots via a newly designed Switch app. This streamlined process simplifies sharing your favorite gaming highlights, eliminating the cumbersome task of scanning QR codes that was necessary in the original Switch. Additionally, the app will provide access to friends lists and facilitate voice chat during online gaming. Note that a Switch Online membership is required to utilize these features.
Brandon Fletcher
Daniel Mercer
