I know…. more Nintendo Switch 2 teasing. Reddit user “UF0Nomura808” puts it best:
But hear me out, some really interesting bit of information has surfaced which is possibly giving us a look into a key feature of the rumored Nintendo Switch 2.
Nintendo has filed a brand-new patent for a tech that lets Switch users turn their smartphones and other devices into second screens for themselves or family and friends.
The patent also hints at integrating local and online gameplay, suggesting that portable devices could be used to bring remote players into the mix.
Tech Talk
Nintendo’s patented system reimagines the (Nintendo Switch 2) multiplayer gaming experience by combining a central game-processing unit, like the rumored Switch 2 console, with portable devices such as your smartphones, tablets etc. Would be cool if other Switch consoles can be connected too, no?
The console displays a unique image—like a QR code—on the screen. The players simply scan that code with their devices to establish a live connection to the game via Switch (2).
Once connected, smartphones or tablets can act as both controllers and displays, or they can used to assign specific roles to other players such as in an RPG, tabletop game, the possibilities are endless.
And this is indeed the kind of unique feature a company like Nintendo expected to create.
Imaging playing something like Dungeon’s and Dragons on this or a Zelda board game with your family and friends. Cool, right?
Three Possibilities for Nintendo Switch 2 Local Multiplayer, Second Screens, Online Play
Second Screen for yourself: Access secondary game information on your smartphone or tablet, such as maps, inventory, or mission objectives (similar to the Wii U’s GamePad).
Switch 2 is actually rumored to have a second screen like the 3DS.
Second Screen for Other Players in Multiplayer: The patent also explained a use case where multiple portable devices connect to the console, effectively enabling local multiplayer without requiring additional controllers.
Each player will use their smartphones or tablet as their own controller or gaming hub to patriciate in the game.
Hybrid Local and Online Play: Lastly, the patent hints at integrating local and online gameplay, suggesting that portable devices could be used to bring remote players into the mix as well.
In the hybrid multiplayer model, multiple players in the same room might use smartphones as controllers, while the console is connected to online players.
What Makes this Different from Traditional Local Multiplayer?
Unlike current local multiplayer setups that require Syncing physical controllers like Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers and Splitting a single screen among multiple players, the new way of doing things (I guess in supported games only) will be to allow players to use their own smartphones and portable devices to join games.
They will also have private, player-specific information on their device, which is impossible with split-screen.
Oh, and the QR code we discussed earlier can also be displayed on the TV screen, not just the Switch.
Disclaimer: Not every patented tech sees the light of day.
