Even before you get to the games, the biggest defining aspect of the Nintendo Switch is its controllers. Detachable, usable together or separate, the Switch’s Joy-Con controllers will play a large role in the fortunes of the console.
During the Switch reveal livestream, Nintendo took the time to detail everything the Joy-Con controllers are capable of. Not only will there be all the normal inputs gamers are used to, the Joy-Cons will also have gyroscopic motion control and a camera that can register distance and shapes, like “the difference between rock, paper, and scissors.” Nintendo suggests the camera could be used for new types of game control in the future.
And if that wasn’t enough, the controllers will also feature vibration feedback, which Nintendo contends will be so localized and specific that it can accurately approximate the feeling of shaking a glass with ice in it, and even make you feel like that cup is filling with water. While we will have to wait until we get our hands on the Joy-Cons to know if that is true, the company also demonstrated Amiibo support and displayed the fact the controllers feature a share button, not unlike the PS4’s DualShock 4.
A left and a right Joy-Con will come with the console, along with attachable wrist straps for both. For those looking to bring a bit more color to their gaming, the Joy-Cons and the wrist straps will be available in different colors, starting with Neon Blue and Neon Red. A special version of the console sporting the colorful controllers will sell alongside the normal grey version for the same price. The more traditional Pro Controllers will be sold separately.
The Nintendo Switch will hit store shelves on March 3 for $299. And best of all, The Legend of Zelda will release on the same day. As we continue to learn more about the Switch in the weeks to come, keep checking back here on Gamespresso.