The Nintendo Switch 2 was announced on January 16, showcasing all the upgrades and improvements the next-gen console has to offer. From a larger screen to an improved kickstand, there’s a lot to unpack from the trailer but what’s even more interesting is that most of the upcoming features align with the allegedly “accurate” mockups we saw from third-party accessory makers, though there are a few design changes we were hoping to see.

However, amid the good news, gamers have identified one key area that's sparking concerns as a potential “failure point.” And spoiler alert: it has got to do something with the new magnetic Joy-Cons.

Unpacking all the new features of the Switch 2

For those who haven’t had the chance to watch the official trailer, the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 is noticeably larger in size compared to its predecessor. It features a significantly larger screen, estimated to be around 8 inches or even bigger, along with slimmer bezels. This is a welcome change for gamers, as early mockups suggested the console might retain the large bezels from the original model. Thankfully, that's not the case.

The console also introduces connectivity enhancements, with the most notable being the addition of a second USB-C port on the top. This new port will allow gamers to connect multiple peripherals, charge more conveniently, and dock with greater flexibility. Additionally, the redesigned kickstand enables players to prop up the console at various angles, making it far more practical for tabletop gaming on the go.

As for the Joy-Cons, Nintendo has improved the attachment mechanism by replacing the old rail system with a magnetic snap-in design. However, this change has sparked some debate within the gaming community, with users questioning whether it will be as simple and reliable as Nintendo makes it look.

Magnetic Joy-Cons could be a potential failure point for the Switch 2

Over on Reddit, users are suggesting that the magnetic attachment for the Switch 2 Joy-Cons could become a key failure point. This is because, for this mechanism to work, you need what could be described as an “innie bit” and an “outie bit,” with the small nub on the Joy-Cons being particularly prone to damage. While the connector is recessed and unlikely to hit anything directly, it's said that even slight misalignment could result in breakage. For parents with young children, this could be a significant concern.

Considering the original Nintendo Switch was hugely popular among children, it's unlikely Nintendo would introduce a design without addressing durability. Some users are hopeful that the Joy-Cons will support wireless charging and communication. This way, even if the magnetic attachment breaks, the controllers could still function.

For now, we'll have to wait until the console and the new Joy-Cons debut to see how these concerns hold up in real-world use. There will be a Nintendo Direct on April 2nd which will reveal more about the Switch 2 – so stay tuned.

About the Author

Hassam Nasir

Hassam boasts over seven years of professional experience as a dedicated PC hardware reviewer and writer.