Joy-Con Leaks Ignite Excitement for Nintendo Switch 2 Ahead of Potential Announcement

Joy-Con Leaks Ignite Excitement for Nintendo Switch 2 Ahead of Potential Announcement

  • 09 Jan 2025
  • Ayten de Goede

There has been growing anticipation surrounding Nintendo's next gaming console, with recent leaks hinting at significant developments. A noteworthy leak depicts a complete and seemingly authentic Joy-Con controller for the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, stirring excitement among fans. Speculations suggest that Nintendo may announce the successor to the Switch on January 8, 2025. If the company does not act swiftly, the ongoing leaks could dominate discussions as they have throughout December and into the new year.

The latest leak appears to have substantial credibility, showcasing the redesigned Joy-Con that will come with the Nintendo Switch 2. The authenticity of the images can be attributed to their resemblance to earlier leaks regarding production molds, alongside unofficial specifications that have circulated. Particularly, the new Joy-Con design focuses on enhancing ergonomics, featuring larger units, along with bigger buttons and sticks. It also introduces a more defined rear protrusion that comfortably supports fingers, and an innovative magnetic attachment system to facilitate connectivity with the console, departing from the traditional 'switch' click.

Another factor contributing to the credibility of these images is that prior leaks typically employed AI techniques to obscure their true origins, while these photos present a more straightforward and raw appearance.

Sourced from the Chinese social platform Tieba Baidu, these images have made their way to Reddit, which serves as a popular hub for leaks within Western audiences. They reveal what is believed to be the left Joy-Con of the Nintendo Switch 2, highlighting its edge and back design. The edge displays a blue hue, indicative of the Joy-Con's left designation, while the right counterpart is expected to be red, providing a quick visual identification.

Among the notable changes in this controller are the noticeably longer SL and SR buttons, designed for easier access by adult hands that often find current controllers to be less comfortable. While this model is a left controller, it remains uncertain if Nintendo intends to retain or enhance the IR sensor functionality on the right controller, stirring further curiosity given previous rumors about the inclusion of advanced LiDAR technology.

Moreover, the visible wireless pairing button, along with various logos and licenses, lends further weight to the authenticity of the leak. Enlarging the image reveals a serial number, HBW51004401430, which has been cataloged in Nintendo's US customer service database, as corroborated by multiple sources.

What are your thoughts on these convincing images of the Nintendo Switch 2's left Joy-Con? When do you think the company will present the new console before March 31?