New Joy-Con Colors for Switch 2 Offer Subtle Changes

Nintendo has unveiled the first variant Joy-Con controllers for the Switch 2, and they might not be as vibrant as some players were hoping for. Primarily in a sleek graphite black, the new Joy-Con feature subtle accents of lily purple and mint green, set to launch next month for $100.

These new controllers will be available on February 12, coinciding with the release of Mario Tennis Fever. However, there doesn’t appear to be any direct thematic connection between the Joy-Con and the colors of the new sports game. Similar to the existing orange and blue Joy-Con, the new colors are limited to the areas around the thumbsticks and the sides where they attach magnetically to the console. For those playing in handheld mode, much of what’s “new” about these variants will likely go unnoticed.

As you dive into Mario Tennis Fever, you’ll also have the chance to give your Nintendo Switch 2 a fresh look!

The first new colored Joy-Con 2 controllers—Light Purple and Light Green—are also launching on February 12.

Is it surprising that Nintendo is opting for a more refined, less playful design for the new Joy-Con? Not really. However, it may be a bit disappointing for those eagerly awaiting a standout design before picking up a second pair of controllers. You could achieve a similar effect by swapping out the thumbstick nubs (which is a good idea anyway, as the stock ones aren’t great).

During the first year of the original Switch, we saw a variety of colorful Joy-Con released alongside titles like Arms and Splatoon 2. Those were bright, eye-catching, and fun. One of the highlights from that console generation is my collection of Joy-Con that resembles a box of oversized crayons. Perhaps we’ll see more exciting designs in the future. For now, fans will have to make do with the “Joy-Con™ 2 (L)/(R) Light Purple / Light Green.”