The Joy-Con controllers are the primary game controllers for the Nintendo Switch, a video game console released by Nintendo. The system comes with a pair of Joy-Con controllers, each of which can be used independently or combined to work as a single controller.
Here are some of the key features of the Joy-Con controllers:
- Versatility: Each Joy-Con can be used as a standalone controller, allowing for two-player gameplay straight out of the box. They can also be attached to the console for handheld mode or slid into a Joy-Con grip accessory to work like a traditional controller.
- Motion Control: Both Joy-Con controllers have built-in accelerometers and gyroscopes, allowing them to be used for motion-controlled games, similar to the Wii remote.
- HD Rumble: The Joy-Con controllers feature HD Rumble, a haptic feedback system that provides a more immersive sensory experience by simulating various sensations, like the feeling of individual ice cubes shaking in a glass.
- IR Motion Camera: The Joy-Con (R) has an IR Motion Camera that can detect the distance, shape, and motion of nearby objects in specially designed games. For example, it can tell how far away a player’s hand is, or if the hand is forming a rock, paper, or scissors shape.
- amiibo Support: There’s an NFC reader/writer located on Joy-Con (R) that lets you bring amiibo figures to life with a simple tap.
- Button Layout: Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons, allowing them to function as standalone controllers. The Joy-Con (L) has a Capture Button that players can press to take instant screenshots of gameplay to share with friends. On the other hand, the Joy-Con (R) includes a home button for accessing the console’s main menu.
- Player LED: Four LED lights on the side of each Joy-Con indicate the player number during multiplayer gaming.
One of the known issues with Joy-Con controllers has been “Joy-Con Drift“, a condition where the controller’s analog sticks register movement without any user input. As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Nintendo has acknowledged the issue and offers repairs for drifting Joy-Con controllers, even outside of warranty in some regions.
