Joy-Con Mouse Could Revive Kid Icarus: Uprising on Switch 2

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The unveiling of the Nintendo Switch 2 demonstrates that it is indeed a significant improvement over its predecessor. The enhanced hardware and innovative features distinguish the Nintendo Switch 2 from the original, signaling Nintendo’s entry into the next phase of console development. During the Nintendo Switch 2’s lifetime, gamers can anticipate numerous new first-party games to capitalize on its advanced capabilities, along with some classic titles being updated to take advantage of the Switch 2’s improved functionality.

One notable new feature in the Joy-Con 2 has sparked a lot of player enthusiasm – it’s the addition of mouse functionality. Using the Joy-Con 2 like a mouse could pave the way for a wealth of unique experiences, inspired by the creative ideas hinted at in games like Drag x Drive. Interestingly, there’s a game that fans have long been waiting to see on a new platform, and with this feature, the Switch 2 might just provide the ideal chance. That game is none other than Kid Icarus: Uprising, which has remained exclusive to the Nintendo 3DS so far.

Kid Icarus: Uprising Would Be Great for Switch 2

A Beloved Reboot of a Classic Series

In 2012, many were taken aback by the release of Kid Icarus: Uprising. After a long hiatus of more than 20 years, the series was brought back to life on the 3DS by Masahiro Sakurai, who gave it fresh visuals and a new gameplay style tailored for today’s gaming landscape. These modifications were well-received by fans, with many deeming Kid Icarus: Uprising as one of the finest games for the 3DS. Since then, apart from characters from the series showing up in Super Smash Bros., there hasn’t been much new content related to the series.

Fans have been eagerly anticipating the comeback of the series for more than a decade, but Nintendo has yet to make any formal announcement about it. There were whispers of a remastered version of Kid Icarus: Uprising for Switch, but with the console’s life cycle nearing its end, such an announcement seems unlikely. However, there’s still hope that a remaster could be developed for the upcoming Switch 2, taking advantage of its enhanced capabilities compared to the original Switch, which could make it even more appealing to players.

Mouse Controls Could Revive the Kid Icarus Series

Uprising” was widely acclaimed, with critics appreciating aspects like its writing and combat systems. However, many players struggled with the game’s control scheme, particularly the camera controls which were deemed awkward and inconvenient, despite the overall quality of the game. If a remastered version is released for the hypothetical Switch 2, it’s hoped that the improved console features could address these control issues.

The controls for the handheld 3DS version of the game might be better mimicked by precise mouse movements instead of the stylus controls it currently uses. This change would address the main issue with the game’s control scheme, making it more accurate and user-friendly. While a traditional twin-stick setup could also achieve this, some console games work particularly well with mouse controls, especially shooters. For instance, the game “Kid Icarus: Uprising” has both action and shooting elements, and most of the gameplay revolves around these shooting mechanics, whether in grounded or aerial rail shooter sections. If this game were remade for the Switch 2, switching from the touch-screen controls to mouse features could significantly improve the player’s experience by rectifying the main problem with the original control scheme.

Given that both Joy-Con 2 controllers come equipped with mouse functionality, there’s a possibility that a local cooperative mode could be introduced. If each player has an extra controller for movement, or hypothetically a Switch 2 keyboard accessory, they would each be able to control their own mouse from the same Switch 2 package. In a similar vein, as Kid Icarus: Uprising introduced Dark Pit (also known as Pittoo), who shares the same abilities as the game’s main character, it wouldn’t be out of line to expect a cooperative mode where one player controls the light version and another controls the dark version of Pit.

Other Switch 2 Features Could Elevate Kid Icarus

As a dedicated gamer who’s flown high with Kid Icarus: Uprising, I can tell you that the single-player journey was unforgettable and solidified its place among the system’s top titles. However, it was the multiplayer mode that truly made this game soar, extending playtime for countless fans like me. This mode was such a hit that tournaments were held for Kid Icarus: Uprising, with players still engaging online until the 3DS servers went dark in April 2024. Now, with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 focusing heavily on enhancing its online and multiplayer capabilities, it’s not hard to imagine a new Kid Icarus game leveraging these features for an even more exhilarating experience if it ever graces this console.

In addition to its online capabilities, Kid Icarus: Uprising offered local multiplayer options via its Together Mode. This feature enabled multiple gamers playing the same game on separate devices to engage in cooperative play without needing an internet connection. With a potential remaster for the Switch 2, it’s possible that GameShare could facilitate this experience, allowing up to four players to enjoy the game together, even if only one owns the title. Furthermore, if a remake includes co-op for the single-player mode, GameShare might also be utilized here, providing access to the captivating storyline for both players with just a single cartridge.

As a devoted admirer, I’ve found myself yearning for more adventures with Pit from Kid Icarus: Uprising ever since it was confined to the Nintendo 3DS, which is no longer supported. The game deserves greater recognition, and with the new mouse features on Joy-Con 2, there’s a glimmer of hope that this classic might return to rectify its control issues.

The recent announcement of Kirby Air Rider has shown us that Masahiro Sakurai isn’t shy about revisiting cherished series from yesteryears, so it’s not beyond the realm of possibility for Kid Icarus to receive the same treatment. Eagle-eyed fans have even spotted what could be hints towards a port of Kid Icarus: Uprising, and if these signs are accurate, we might not have to wait long before we’re soaring through the skies once more in an updated version.

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2025-05-12 18:55