Answering the Nintendo Switch 2’s lingering accessibility questions

Answering the Nintendo Switch 2’s Lingering Accessibility Questions

Introduction

With the Nintendo Switch 2 (or whatever Nintendo ends up calling its next-generation console) on the horizon, fans and critics alike are speculating about its features, performance, and game library. However, one crucial aspect that deserves more attention is accessibility.

The original Nintendo Switch made strides in being a versatile and inclusive gaming platform, but it still lagged behind competitors like Xbox and PlayStation in terms of built-in accessibility features. As gaming becomes more inclusive, Nintendo must address these gaps to ensure that players of all abilities can enjoy their next console.

In this deep dive, we’ll explore the lingering accessibility questions surrounding the Switch 2, analyze what Nintendo has done well (and where it has fallen short), and propose realistic improvements that could make the next Switch a leader in inclusive gaming.

1. The Current State of Accessibility on Nintendo Switch

Before discussing the Switch 2, it’s important to assess where the original Switch stands in terms of accessibility.

Strengths:

Versatile Hardware: The Switch’s hybrid design (docked and handheld modes) inherently benefits players with different mobility needs.

Detachable Joy-Cons: Allowing for flexible controller configurations helps some players with limited dexterity.

Motion Controls & Touchscreen: Alternative input methods can assist players who struggle with traditional buttons.

First-Party Accessibility Efforts: Games like The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom included features like button remapping and visual aids.

Weaknesses:

No System-Wide Accessibility Settings: Unlike Xbox’s Copilot mode or PlayStation’s button remapping, the Switch lacks universal accessibility options.

Limited Assistive Controller Support: While the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and third-party alternatives exist, Nintendo has been slow to adopt adaptive controllers like the Xbox Adaptive Controller.

Inconsistent Game Support: Some first-party titles include accessibility features, but many third-party games do not.

No Text-to-Speech or Screen Reader: This makes menus difficult for visually impaired players.

Given these shortcomings, what should the Switch 2 improve?

2. Key Accessibility Questions for the Switch 2

Question 1: Will the Switch 2 Have System-Wide Accessibility Options?

Currently, accessibility settings on the Switch are handled on a per-game basis. This is inefficient and leaves many players struggling with system navigation.

What’s Needed:

Global button remapping (like PlayStation’s Accessibility menu).

Text-to-speech (TTS) for menus (similar to Xbox’s screen reader).

High-contrast UI modes for better visibility.

Customizable controller sensitivity for players with motor impairments.

If Nintendo wants to compete with Microsoft and Sony, these features should be built into the Switch 2’s OS.

Question 2: Will Nintendo Support Adaptive Controllers?

Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller (2018) set a new standard for inclusive gaming hardware. Sony followed with its Access Controller (2023). Nintendo, however, has yet to release an official adaptive controller.

What’s Needed:

Official Nintendo Adaptive Joy-Cons with modular inputs.

Better third-party peripheral support (USB-C and Bluetooth compatibility for devices like the QuadStick or XAC).

A "Copilot" mode (allowing two controllers to function as one for assisted play).

Without these options, many players with disabilities will continue to be left out.

Question 3: Will More Games Include Accessibility Features?

Some Switch games (Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Animal Crossing: New Horizons) offer helpful settings like auto-steering or simplified controls. However, others (Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Splatoon 3) lack basic accessibility options.

What’s Needed:

Mandatory accessibility guidelines for developers (similar to Xbox’s accessibility toolkit).

More granular difficulty settings (e.g., sliders for reaction times, aim assist).

Subtitles with customizable size/color (as seen in The Last of Us Part II).

Nintendo could take inspiration from studios like Ubisoft, which includes extensive accessibility features in games like Assassin’s Creed Valhalla.

Question 4: Will the Switch 2 Improve Visual and Auditory Accessibility?

Many players rely on visual or auditory cues to enjoy games. The current Switch has minimal support for these needs.

What’s Needed:

A system-wide screen reader (crucial for blind or low-vision players).

Haptic feedback alternatives for deaf/hard-of-hearing players.

Colorblind modes (adjustable UI palettes).

Games like Celeste and Hades have set great examples—Nintendo should ensure these features are standardized.

Question 5: Will the Hardware Be More Ergonomic?

The Joy-Cons are compact but can be uncomfortable for players with larger hands or joint pain. The Nintendo Switch Lite also lacks detachable controllers, limiting flexibility.

What’s Needed:

Larger Joy-Con variants with better grips.

Adjustable tension for analog sticks (helpful for players with muscle fatigue).

A more accessible dock design (easier to insert/remove for players with limited mobility).

3. What Nintendo Can Learn From Competitors

Xbox’s Leadership in Accessibility

Xbox Adaptive Controller – A groundbreaking peripheral for gamers with limited mobility.

Copilot Mode – Allows two controllers to act as one.

System-wide TTS and Magnifier – Helps visually impaired users navigate menus.

PlayStation’s Innovations

Access Controller – A customizable, one-handed controller.

Detailed HUD Customization – Lets players resize and reposition UI elements.

Speech-to-Text in Parties – Helps deaf/hard-of-hearing players communicate.

Nintendo doesn’t need to copy these features exactly but should take inspiration from their success.

4. Realistic Expectations for the Switch 2

Given Nintendo’s history, it’s unlikely the Switch 2 will match Xbox and PlayStation’s accessibility efforts right away. However, small but meaningful improvements could make a huge difference:

Introduce system-wide remapping and TTS.

Partner with an adaptive controller manufacturer.

Enforce accessibility guidelines for first-party games.

Improve Joy-Con ergonomics.

If Nintendo takes even two of these steps, the Switch 2 could become a much more inclusive platform.

Conclusion: The Switch 2’s Accessibility Potential

Nintendo has always prioritized fun and creativity, but true innovation means ensuring everyone can play. The Switch 2 presents an opportunity to bridge the accessibility gap and set a new standard for inclusive gaming.

Will Nintendo rise to the challenge? Only time will tell—but with enough feedback from players and advocates, the next Switch could be the most accessible console yet.

Final Thoughts

Accessibility isn’t just a niche concern—it’s a necessity for millions of gamers. If Nintendo wants the Switch 2 to succeed for another decade, it must prioritize features that welcome all players, regardless of ability.

What accessibility improvements do you want to see in the Switch 2? Let’s keep the conversation going.