Published on: September 18, 2024
Nintendo Switch Online may soon offer SNES Mouse support, paving the way for legacy titles like Mario Paint and the Japanese-exclusive Mario & Wario to reach a new audience on the Nintendo Switch.
This development comes after a reliable dataminer, LuigiBlood, discovered evidence of planned mouse compatibility following the latest Nintendo Switch Online SNES emulator update—a finding widely reported by Video Games Chronicle (VGC).
The SNES Mouse, first introduced in 1992 as a peripheral for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), enabled creative and gameplay features in classic titles, most notably Mario Paint.
Despite its cult status, SNES Mouse-compatible games have only been periodically re-released owing to their unique control requirements.
With the Nintendo Switch platform's versatile hardware and the expanding Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) library, many fans have long hoped for official SNES Mouse support.
According to LuigiBlood’s investigation, the SNES emulator within NSO has always contained the basic framework required for SNES Mouse input.
However, the latest update substantially enhanced this support.
Key findings from the datamining include:
• Clearer code for handling input from the SNES Mouse on both controller ports
• Added capacity for input replays from SNES Mouse devices
• New logic within the emulator that configures and adapts the mouse’s behavior, likely to create a more accessible experience for modern users
A statement paraphrased from VGC’s coverage highlights how these upgrades could make SNES Mouse gameplay easier to access than previous USB workarounds.
While Nintendo has not officially commented on these enhancements, the documentation within the update suggests real intent to make SNES Mouse support a reality for Nintendo Switch Online subscribers.
The potential arrival of SNES Mouse-compatible titles such as Mario Paint on Nintendo Switch would be a significant moment for retro gaming and digital preservation.
Mario Paint, in particular, is beloved for its creative drawing and music-making tools, and it remains a unique part of Nintendo’s history.
Mario & Wario, while originally released only in Japan, is also celebrated for its innovative gameplay mechanics leveraging the SNES Mouse.
This advancement follows several recent content drops for Nintendo Switch Online, where new SNES classics join the roster for subscribers.
With cumulative Switch Online subscriptions surpassing 36 million accounts as of Nintendo’s latest quarterly report, the expanding library continues to be a major draw for players seeking both nostalgia and convenience.
While the timeline for official SNES Mouse functionality has not been confirmed, evidence suggests that Nintendo Switch Online is evolving not only to preserve but also to enhance the classic gaming experience.
As development continues, players can look forward to more curated retro hits on the Nintendo Switch, accessible via the eShop and celebrated during Nintendo Direct showcases.
For the latest updates on Nintendo Switch Online, retro gaming news, and official announcements, keep an eye on Nintendo’s communication channels and trusted news outlets.
Nintendo Switch Nintendo Nintendo Switch Online Mario SNES Switch Online Switch Xbox Series X|S SNES Mouse Mario Paint Mario & Wario Wario