The Nintendo Switch 2 is encountering a troubling resurgence of the Joy-Con drift issue, which has disappointed many new console owners. Reports have emerged from multiple users who have experienced stick drift problems right out of the box.
Fans are anxious to see this issue reappear on the updated console, though there is some hope that a future OLED model might resolve it. The original Nintendo Switch, launched globally in 2017, marked a significant development in Nintendo’s gaming evolution after the discontinuation of the Wii U.
The Switch 2 brings considerable improvements over its predecessor, featuring a larger display, enhanced internal storage, and upgraded graphics and social features. Following months of anticipation and speculation, the Switch 2 was officially announced in January 2025, with detailed specifications revealed in April.
Notably, the new console has set sales records for Nintendo, significantly outperforming the original Switch. In addition to concerns over hardware issues, players are discovering gameplay features that enhance their experiences.
For instance, a single settings adjustment can make playing The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker easier on the Switch 2. However, the excitement has been overshadowed by the resurfacing of Joy-Con drift problems.
A Reddit user, NearlyCrossing, shared a video documenting one of the earliest cases, with their new console experiencing significant drift issues only after a brief period of use. Another user, whoatemyteeth, echoed similar sentiments, reporting a loose stick and drift issues right after unpacking their Switch 2.
Many in the Nintendo fan community express disappointment over these issues, especially since there were hopes that new technology might prevent such problems. While Nintendo has filed patents for updated Joy-Con technology, the ongoing reports of drift suggest that a fix might not be imminent.
As of now, Nintendo has yet to address these concerns, leading many to speculate whether the same repair procedures will still apply.