The mouse functionality on the Switch 2 is an intriguing concept, but let’s be honest: spending hours scrolling with a tool not specifically designed for that purpose seems like a surefire way to end up with hand cramps. Luckily, there are alternatives.
In April, Polygon had the opportunity to test the mouse controls on the Switch 2. We noted at that time that the Joy-Con 2 effectively tracked various surfaces, even including your clothing. In those demonstrations, the mouse functioned largely as anticipated for PC users, though it was easy to mistakenly hit the wrong button due to the controller’s layout. It’s possible that adjusting to the semi-mouse controls just takes time, but the overall user experience could be more intuitive.
If you happen to have a computer mouse available, that might be a more straightforward option. Koei Tecmo revealed in a developer diary for the strategy game Nobunaga’s Ambition: Awakening Complete Edition that you can connect a standard mouse and use it for gameplay (this was first noted by VGC).
One advantage of using the Joy-Con 2 in these situations is its ability to pair with a mouse. This way, you can navigate fluidly while also utilizing the buttons on the Joy-Con that are programmed with useful shortcuts.
Alternatively, you could embrace the Joy-Con mouse! Producer Michi Ryu suggests that any initial hurdles you may encounter while getting accustomed to it could ultimately enhance your gameplay experience. “For those who adapt to it, using these shortcuts can lead to a smoother game flow,” he mentions in the video.
