Nintendo's Switch 2 may turn your smartphone into a controller

Nintendo patent explores options for local multiplayer gaming

by · TechSpot

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Something to look forward to: Nintendo is flirting with an idea that could reshape local multiplayer gaming. According to a recently published patent, the Japanese gaming giant is exploring the possibility of allowing gamers to use their smartphone as a makeshift controller.

The patent outlines a mechanic in which a gamer could scan an on-screen code to transform their handset into a gamepad. While not a totally unique idea (party games have leveraged similar functionality for a while now), it could be handy in the right situation.

OEM controllers are not cheap and on more than one occasion, I have found myself in the unfortunate predicament of having too many people and not enough controllers. Serious gamers probably aren't going to substitute their purpose-built controller for a smartphone but in could come in clutch in a pinch. As such, it is unlikely that the feature would cannibalize controller sales very much.

Nintendo's patent doesn't mention a specific console but considering the Switch 2 is just around the bend, it is safe to assume the feature could debut on the new platform. That said, it is worth mentioning that patent applications don't necessarily guarantee a feature will make it into a consumer product.

Such a feature could also pave the way for some unique second screen functionality. Nintendo had success in this space with the DS, so it is entirely possible they could return to the well here.

Should Nintendo decide to move forward with it, one has to wonder how well the feature would age. Looking ahead, the feature would likely be defunct in a few short decades and totally irrelevant to retro gamers of the future. But for now, it makes a lot of sense.

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As for the Switch 2, Nintendo is planning to unveil the console early next year – sometime before April 1. Confirmed details are few and far between at this time, but we do know it will feature backward compatibility with first-gen Switch games and will be able to play Switch Online titles.

Image credit: Awmleer