Nintendo Files Patents for Innovative Joy-Con 2 Attachments Featuring Crank and Wheel Designs

Nintendo Continues Innovation with Patents for New Joy-Con 2 Attachments Nintendo, a leader in the video game industry known for its creative hardware solutions, has once again demonstrated its commitment to innovation.

According to recent documentation revealed by Nintendo Patents Watch, the Japanese gaming giant has filed new patents for two unannounced accessories designed for the upcoming Joy-Con 2 controllers.

These developments are poised to further enrich the gaming experience on the Nintendo Switch platform. The newly uncovered patents detail two unique attachments intended to expand the functionality of the Joy-Con 2.

The first patent outlines a specialized crank accessory, reminiscent of those found on fishing controllers for simulation games.

Such a design could open new gameplay possibilities for mechanically interactive titles or fitness and rhythm games.

The second patent reveals a clickable wheel attachment, which closely resembles the scroll wheel commonly seen on computer mice.

This innovation could provide players with nuanced input for navigation or precision-based game mechanics. Both attachments are engineered to harness the capabilities of the Joy-Con 2's newly integrated optical sensor.

This advanced sensor marks a significant technological upgrade over the current Joy-Con models, signaling that Nintendo is exploring enhanced methods of player input for future software titles on the Nintendo Switch and potential successor hardware. A Nintendo spokesperson commented on the company's latest filings, stating that Nintendo routinely pursues patents for a broad array of products and concepts.

While not every patented idea reaches production or commercial release, these legal filings reinforce Nintendo’s proactive approach to R&D and its commitment to exploring new ways to engage players.

The company emphasized that official details and supported game titles utilizing these accessories have yet to be announced. The filing of these Joy-Con 2 attachment patents arrives as the original Joy-Con controllers—introduced in 2017 alongside the launch of the Nintendo Switch—approach over 125 million units sold worldwide.

Nintendo’s innovative use of motion controls and detachable design has played a major role in the system’s global success and widespread appeal. As with any patent filing, it’s important to recognize that these designs may or may not progress to final consumer products.

Nintendo has a deep history of protecting potential innovations through patent filings that do not necessarily translate to actual hardware releases.

However, the discovery of interactive attachments leveraging optical technology signals Nintendo’s ongoing investment in enriching user interactivity and unique gameplay mechanics on the eShop and physical releases alike. Fans and industry professionals alike will be watching closely for further updates regarding the Joy-Con 2 and its novel accessories.

As always, we will provide timely coverage as more concrete information becomes available directly from Nintendo.

Joy-Con Nintendo Switch Nintendo Joy-Con 2 Switch Nintendo Patents Watch