The gaming community, especially Nintendo fans, is full of excitement as a recently unearthed Nintendo Switch 2 patent offers an intriguing peek into what could very well be the highly-anticipated successor to the groundbreaking 2017 gaming sensation, the Nintendo Switch. While Nintendo has yet to make an official announcement, industry insiders have long speculated about the development of a new console.
Some even go so far as to speculate that players might find themselves immersed in its virtual worlds as early as the upcoming year.
Key differences that can be seen in the Nintendo Switch 2 patent
The patent, filed with anticipation in late 2022 and recently brought to light this October, introduces a portable gaming device that showcases substantial deviations from its predecessor. One striking alteration is the conspicuous absence of the beloved Joy-Cons. Instead, players will navigate with a single joystick nestled on the left side of the screen and operate four face buttons to the right, complemented by two shoulder buttons adorning the apex of the console.
The home button, a familiar friend to many, has found a new abode at the device’s base. The reasoning behind this strategic relocation lies in the assumption that players would seldom necessitate its use during the heat of gameplay, thus enabling Nintendo to maximize the front panel’s real estate for a more streamlined gaming experience. Moreover, the bottom facet now houses the console’s USB port (54), speakers (55 and 56), and a dedicated button for capturing in-game moments and thrilling gameplay footage (44).
Top features of the new console in Nintendo Switch 2 patent
The top view of this portable gaming marvel bears resemblance to its illustrious predecessor, the original Switch, with one notable change – the power button and volume rocker have intriguingly swapped positions. Familiar features include a standard headphone jack and a slot tailored to accommodate cherished game cartridges, offering a comforting nod to fans of physical media. While there’s no official word on whether this new console will be compatible with games from its predecessor, industry experts lean towards optimism, anticipating a seamless transition through backward compatibility.
Gameplay innovation
Perhaps the most striking revelation found in the patent drawings is the limited number of buttons, replaced by a solitary joystick for gameplay. However, the patent goes on to divulge that the console boasts a pressure-sensitive touch screen, suggesting a paradigm shift in-game interaction. This implies that titles designed for this device may be crafted to leverage this innovative feature, opening up new avenues for immersive gameplay experiences. Additionally, the description hints at the potential inclusion of input for directional movement on the right side, a feature that would bring it in closer alignment with the original Switch’s design.
While the gaming world holds its collective breath, eagerly awaiting official confirmation from Nintendo, this patent offers a tantalizing preview of what might lie ahead for avid gamers. The Nintendo Switch 2 patent promises to usher in a new era of gaming with its innovative design and potential gameplay enhancements. As the days tick by, anticipation continues to build for what could very well be the next game-changing marvel in the world of gaming consoles, poised to capture the hearts and imaginations of players worldwide.
Meanwhile, if you’re excited about the new console, make sure to check out our article on everything we know about Nintendo Switch 2.
Featured image credit: Cláudio Luiz Castro on Unsplash
