Since the Nintendo Switch released two years ago, one problem keeps being reported from players. That is, the analog sticks start to register inputs that the player hasn’t made. In other words, they ‘drift’ in one direction or another. The issue is so widespread that a US law firm has opened a class action investigation against Nintendo.
It is quite surprising that Nintendo would let such a common problem pass through its quality standards procedures. I have heard of other controllers having ‘drift’ problems (both current-gen and past gens). But the official joy-cons seem especially prone to it. Official Pro controllers seem to sometimes drift but not to nearly the same extent. I’ve had my Switch since launch and in the last two months, the left joy-con’s analog stick has started drifting. Possibly, because the original Switch has various parts to it, it may be particularly prone to something malfunctioning.
An option, which might be a good idea is picking up a Hori officially licensed joy-con. These are themed, based on either Zelda, Pokemon or Mario and are half the price of an original joy-con. The left Hori joy-con also has a d-pad! Which is great for platforming fans. On the downside, it can’t be used as an individual controller during tv or tabletop mode. Hopefully, this type of joy-con might be less prone to ‘drift’ compared to the ones that come with the console. When playing an RPG, drift might not ruin the experience, but in a fighting game like Street Fighter where quick inputs are crucial, it is not acceptable.
So, what will Nintendo do about this problem? Will they offer replacements? Will they offer free games as compensation (in a similar way to the 3DS ambassador program)? Or will they do nothing? What do you think will happen? Post your thoughts in the comments!
Hi, I’ve played games since the 16-bit era and really enjoy indie games. That part of the industry has really blossomed in recent years and we’re getting different takes on established genres. I also really love Nintendo games. I’m currently studying for an MSc.
