Summary
- Nintendo files a patent for potential circular controller resembling a Poke Ball, showcasing its commitment to pushing the boundaries of video game controls.
- The new controller features buttons, a rechargeable battery, and a directional input, but it is not believed to be connected to Pokemon.
- Nintendo already offers a range of alternative control options for the Switch, including Pro Controllers and GameCube controller adapters, demonstrating its dedication to providing diverse gaming experiences.
A recent patent filed by Nintendo suggests that the iconic hardware developer may be working on a unique circular controller. Throughout Nintendo's history within the video games industry, the Super Mario Bros. Creator has not been afraid to push the boundaries with introducing new controllers and control schemes into its consoles. The studio has often experimented with unique controllers like the Wii Remote and Wii U Gamepad among others. Now, the company's next venture into alternative control schemes may see it developing an unusual circular controller.
Nintendo's desire to break the mold of video game controls has been even more apparent with the launch of the Nintendo Switch and its unique Joy-Con controllers. Joy-Cons feature a variety of different ways to be used with the Switch by attaching them to the sides of the handheld console, turning the controllers on their sides, and more. The tiny controllers also sport Nintendo's "HD Rumble" capabilities, offering unique motion capabilities in games like 1-2-Switch. Now, Nintendo's newest controller features a unique design with a smaller form factor.
A new patent from Nintendo shows the first designs for a potential circular controller from the developer, sporting a similar design and appearance to a Poke Ball. While the patent does not make reference to Pokemon, the controller appears to feature several buttons alongside a rechargeable battery, charging via a USB-C port at the bottom. The center looks to feature a directional input with a similar appearance to that of the 3DS' circle pad. The controller is not believed to be connected to Pokemon, with past Poke Ball controllers being round rather than flat.
While it is unclear how Nintendo will implement the tiny controller, if at all, the hardware developer has already released numerous alternative control options for Switch players. Nintendo's line of Pro Controllers allows players to swap out the Joy-Cons for a more traditional gaming controller, often one of Nintendo's most popular accessories. Nintendo has also released a GameCube controller adapter for the Switch, allowing players to connect the classic controllers for games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Other less technical accessories have included the leg strap used with Nintendo Switch Sports and the Joy-Con wheel for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
A unique new controller for the Switch would come as Nintendo is set to debut several high-profile new game releases throughout the rest of the year. Mario seems to be a focus for Nintendo throughout the end of 2023 with multiple new games, including new 2D platformer Super Mario Bros. Wonder and the Super Mario RPG remake. Pokemon is also set to receive a new game later this year with Detective Pikachu Returns. A new controller would look to be just another way Nintendo has continued to innovate with its game controls.