Drag x Drive Review: Nintendo’s Latest eShop Exclusive Showcases Innovative Controls on Switch 2

Nintendo’s legacy for creating memorable and innovative gaming experiences is evident in its roster of groundbreaking intellectual properties, ranging from Super Mario to Splatoon.

The company is no stranger to fresh ideas, having launched original hits like Arms (2017) and Ring Fit Adventure (2019) for Nintendo Switch.

Continuing this tradition, Nintendo introduces Drag x Drive, a digital-only sports title available exclusively via the Nintendo Switch 2 eShop.

This inventive release leverages the cutting-edge features of the Joy-Con 2 controllers and aims to carve a unique niche in competitive online gameplay. Drag x Drive puts players behind the wheels of a customizable wheelchair athlete, competing in fast-paced, three-minute rounds of 3-on-3 basketball.

Unique to this title are its controls: each hand holds a Joy-Con 2 that functions as an optical-sensor mouse, requiring movement across a flat surface for propulsion and steering.

As described in official documentation, players slide the controllers forward or back to move, with each mapping to a specific wheel, while the ZL and ZR triggers provide braking and trick capabilities.

HD Rumble 2 enhances immersion, letting players physically feel terrain changes as they roll across the court.

Motion controls are used for shooting, blocking, and signaling teammates during play.

The entire action is rooted in "The Park"—a combination basketball court and skate park that serves as the game’s primary hub. Before matches, players can select from three Driver types (Guard, Center, Forward), each offering distinct stat balances for speed, strength, and rebounding.

Character customization lets users personalize jerseys, helmets, tires, and wheelchair frames, encouraging self-expression within the game’s streamlined ecosystem. The gameplay itself tests both skill and teamwork.

With no dribbling possible, stealing the ball relies on physically intercepting opponents.

A shot clock pressures each team to score quickly, and diverse scoring options—including trick shots earned by launching off halfpipes—add tactical depth.

Motion controls shine when flicking a wrist to shoot or performing celebratory high-fives. While Drag x Drive’s novel control scheme is a technical showcase for Switch 2 hardware, feature depth is comparatively modest.

There are no alternative rule sets or variable match durations, and the two included minigames—Circuit Sprint and Rebound Scramble—offer brief diversions with limited replay value.

The central draw is online multiplayer, where up to 12 players can gather in private parks to compete on dual courts.

Both public matchmaking and CPU bots (with adjustable difficulty) are available, though the absence of local split-screen or a narrative mode restricts single-player fun. Achievement hunters will find 25 trophies tied to park challenges, such as timed obstacle courses, shooting contests, and difficulty-based wins, primarily designed to build player proficiency.

Additional side-missions unlock cosmetic items but are limited in scope. At a digital price point of £16.99/$19.99, Drag x Drive offers solid technical ambition, with consistent 60fps performance and responsive controls.

However, its single environment—a sparse, industrial-style warehouse—lacks the visual flair and world-building seen in previous Nintendo IP like Splatoon.

The depth of content does not match the richness of its inventive mechanics, leaving players wishing for more variety in characters, environments, and modes. Overall, Drag x Drive demonstrates Nintendo’s continued commitment to innovating with hardware, providing a uniquely engaging wheelchair basketball experience that’s enjoyable in short online bursts.

However, its limited gameplay variety and thin single-player offerings stop it from joining the ranks of the company’s most iconic new properties. Score: 6/10 A review copy of Drag x Drive was provided by Nintendo UK.

Nintendo Switch 2 Joy-Con Nintendo Joy-Con 2 Drag x Drive eShop Switch 2 Switch