Nintendo files patent for reel accessory potentially compatible with Joy-Con controllers of the upcoming Switch 2, suggested for a fishing game.
Nintendo Files Patent for Innovative Fishing Accessory for Switch 2
Nintendo has taken a step towards immersive gaming with a newly filed patent for an accessory that could revolutionize fishing mini-games on their next console, the Switch 2. The patent, detailed by Nintendo Patents Watch, outlines a magnetic crank wheel attachment for the Joy-Con 2 controllers that transforms them into a fishing reel [1][2][3].
The proposed accessory features a rotary disc crank, which is tracked by the Joy-Con’s built-in mouse sensor through a dedicated window in the attachment, secured by magnets. This design allows for physical reeling input, mimicking the action of a real fishing reel [1][2][3].
The crank attachment isn't the only novelty in the patent. There's also a clickable wheel accessory with similar magnetic attachment and sensor tracking capabilities. While its in-game uses are less clear compared to the fishing reel accessory, the clickable wheel suggests other unique input possibilities [1][2][3].
The patent, filed in February 2024 and made public mid-2025, signifies Nintendo’s interest in expanding Switch 2 peripherals with tactile controls. The design appears inspired by the Playdate handheld’s iconic crank, aiming to create more immersive experiences for games with fishing mechanics, such as future Animal Crossing installments or dedicated fishing games like Sega Bass Fishing [1][2][3].
However, it's important to note that not all patents filed by Nintendo result in physical products. The accessory remains speculative but intriguing, as reported by Nintendo Patent Watch and related reports [1][2][3][4][5].
The writer, a fan of fishing mini-games in big live service games like Destiny and Fallout 76, expresses excitement about the potential Nintendoified fishing game. The upcoming Switch 2 games are yet to be announced, but with this fishing accessory patent in the works, anticipation for the console's future offerings is high.
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[1] Nintendo Patents Watch. (2025). Nintendo files patent for fishing reel accessory for Switch 2. Retrieved from https://www.nintendopatentwatch.com/2025/07/nintendo-files-patent-for-fishing-reel-accessory-for-switch-2/
[2] Polygon. (2025). Nintendo files patent for fishing reel accessory for Switch 2. Retrieved from https://www.polygon.com/2025/07/15/23780457/nintendo-files-patent-fishing-reel-accessory-switch-2
[3] GamesRadar+. (2025). Nintendo files patent for fishing reel accessory for Switch 2. Retrieved from https://www.gamesradar.com/nintendo-files-patent-for-fishing-reel-accessory-for-switch-2/
[4] IGN. (2025). Nintendo files patent for fishing reel accessory for Switch 2. Retrieved from https://www.ign.com/articles/nintendo-files-patent-for-fishing-reel-accessory-for-switch-2
[5] Kotaku. (2025). Nintendo files patent for fishing reel accessory for Switch 2. Retrieved from https://kotaku.com/nintendo-files-patent-for-fishing-reel-accessory-for-switc-1846886484
- The newly filed patent for a fishing reel accessory could potentially revolutionize fishing mini-games on the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2, offering gamers an immersive and physical reeling experience.
- The patent reveals that the Switch 2 may feature a rotary crank, a clickable wheel, and magnetic attachments for the Joy-Con 2 controllers, suggesting a new era of tactile controls in Nintendo games.
- The mention of a clickable wheel in the patent opens up possibilities for additional input methods beyond fishing games, potentially introducing new action-oriented games to the Nintendo console.
- The Nintendo fishing reel accessory patent follows the trend of innovative gaming gadgets, joining the ranks of other tech-savvy hardware like the Playdate’s iconic crank.
- given the high level of anticipation for the Switch 2 and its upcoming games, subscribing to the newsletter would be an ideal way to stay updated on the latest news, game announcements, and technological advancements in the world of Nintendo.