Nintendo unveils first alternate Switch 2 Joy-Cons as fans question design and price
Nintendo has revealed the first alternate Joy-Cons for the Switch 2, marking the company’s initial step towards expanding controller customisation for its latest console. The announcement was made on January 8, 2026, six months after the Switch 2 launched.
The new Joy-Cons come as a single paired set, featuring a Light Purple left controller and a Light Green right controller. Nintendo has confirmed that buyers will not be able to purchase a full matching pair in a single colour. The controllers are priced at $99.99 and will be available from February 12, 2026, with pre-orders now open.
In terms of design, changes are relatively limited. The main colour accents appear on the connector rails that attach to the console and on sections beneath the analogue sticks. Aside from these elements, the Joy-Cons retain the same black casing used on the standard controllers bundled with the Switch 2.
This approach differs from the original Nintendo Switch, which offered Joy-Cons with full colour coverage across the controller shells, while keeping the connector rails black.
As a result, some fans have questioned how visible the new colours will be during regular gameplay, particularly for players who primarily use the console in docked mode.
Reaction on social media has been mixed. Some users have pointed out that the coloured elements are only visible in limited situations, with one post stating, “Cool that Nintendo is releasing new colours for the Joy-Con, but this is what most people will see… and they cost $100.” Others suggested that coloured wrist straps might offer a more noticeable alternative.
There has also been criticism of the price point, even from those who approve of the aesthetic. One user commented, “These are beauties but I’ll be damned if I ever pay that price without my other ones being broken.”
Not all feedback has been negative, however. Some fans have praised the restrained look, describing the colours as subtle and sleek.