Nintendo has finally put to rest the concerns surrounding the compatibility of the original Joy-Cons with the new Nintendo Switch 2. While the good news is that all approved original Switch controllers will work with the Switch 2, there are some limitations to be aware of.
The list of compatible controllers includes the Joy-Con Controllers, Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, Nintendo Entertainment System Controller, Super Nintendo Entertainment System Controller, Nintendo 64 Controller, Sega Mega Drive Control Pad, and the Nintendo GameCube Controller Adapter. Additionally, the Ring-Con for Ring Fit Adventure is also compatible with the Switch 2 but requires the original Joy-Con controllers.
However, here comes the ‘but.’ Nintendo has introduced a peculiar caveat to this compatibility. While the original Switch accessories will work, they are not fully feature-complete. For instance, you cannot exit sleep mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 using the Home Button on original Switch controllers. This means you’ll need to start the console with a Switch 2 controller before switching to older input methods.
Moreover, there are other limitations to consider. Charging older Joy-Cons remains a separate task, as the Switch 2’s larger magnetic Joy-Cons require specific charging methods. Additionally, certain games like Ring Fit Adventure and others listed require the use of older Joy-Cons due to size constraints or the need for specific features like the IR sensor, absent in the Switch 2 controllers.
While this news might disappoint those hoping to avoid purchasing new controllers, the silver lining is that all your old Switch controllers will still function with the Switch 2. So, despite the limitations, you can continue to enjoy your favorite games with your existing controller arsenal.