Nintendo Switch 2 confirmed to support USB mice — it fixes my biggest issue with the console after playing it

1 month ago 2
Nintendo Switch 2 London event hands-on images
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

The Nintendo Switch 2 is set to launch in a little over a week — and we're still finding out new things about the console.

When I tried out the system for myself last month as part of a Nintendo showcase in London, I came away impressed with all but one of the new features of the Switch 2: mouse mode. During my time playing Drag X Drive, I found using the Joy-Con 2s on the table in front of me more hassle than it was worth.

However, now we have confirmation the console will support USB gaming mice thanks to a video published on Koi Tecmo America's YouTube channel (spotted by Wario64 on X) showing it in operation.

As part of gameplay footage for Nobunaga's Ambition: Awakening, the game's producer Michi Ryu produces a USB mouse, plugs it into the Switch 2 and starts using it alongside a Joy-Con.

NOBUNAGA’S AMBITION: Awakening CE - Nintendo Switch 2 Gameplay - YouTube  Awakening CE - Nintendo Switch 2 Gameplay - YouTube

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According to Ryu, once a USB mouse is plugged in a message will appear in the top left portion of the screen confirming the connection. It will then take priority over the Joy-Con 2. During the course of the demo, Ryu switches between the Joy-Con 2 and the USB mouse and even uses them at the same time.

It's great to see Nintendo build this into the Switch 2 and it could have major gameplay advantages for strategy games like Civilization VII or even shooters like Cyberpunk 2077.

More questions...

Nintendo Switch 2 London event hands-on images

(Image credit: Tom's Guide)

Of course, it also throws up plenty of new questions. Will all USB-C mice work with the system or just a select few? What about wireless mice? Which games are supported? Will we also be able to use a USB keyboard with the Switch 2?

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Speaking from my own experience, the Joy-Con 2 in mouse mode was okay and it would do in a pinch if you really needed to use a mouse. But the necessary design of the Joy-Con means it's not as comfortable to use for longer periods as a traditional mouse. So being able to plug one in and use it like you would with a PC is an exciting development for a console that's selling itself as a versatile gaming machine.

If this development has convinced you of the need to pick up a Switch 2 for launch day on June 5, then follow our Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order live blog for the best chance of bagging one for yourself.

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Jeff is UK Editor-in-Chief for Tom’s Guide looking after the day-to-day output of the site’s British contingent.

A tech journalist for over a decade, he’s travelled the world testing any gadget he can get his hands on. Jeff has a keen interest in fitness and wearables as well as the latest tablets and laptops.

A lapsed gamer, he fondly remembers the days when technical problems were solved by taking out the cartridge and blowing out the dust.

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