Nintendo introduces Game Chat for the Nintendo Switch 2
We finally know the purpose of the mysterious „C” button on the Nintendo Switch 2. Game Chat looks like it will bring couch co-op to online play.
Today, during the Nintendo Switch 2 Direct, Nintendo finally answered the mystery behind the “C” button on the right-hand Joy-Con. This button was initially revealed in a now confirmed leak months before the Switch 2’s initial reveal. Many theories have come and gone, but now we know that this button will be used for the Nintendo Switch 2’s new online feature called Game Chat.
The truth behind the mysterious Nintendo Switch 2 “C” button revealed
Nintendo is infamous for being far behind the curve of online options. For example, why, when playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate online can there only be one person per console? We can somewhat forgive the original Nintendo Switch considering it is eight years old this year, so the new console is their chance to finally catch up, at least a little. During today’s presentation, Nintendo revealed some exciting plans.
We got an in-depth look at Game Chat, a new feature that allows players to connect with voice and video during gameplay. The best part, you don’t even have to be playing the same game. Players will also be able to share their screen to the call, though, the streaming was far from smooth, even in the Direct. Regardless, this is a huge step forward for online play with a Nintendo console. Using the “C” button on the right-hand Joy-Con, players can share their gameplay, mute themselves, and optionally focus on a friend’s gameplay.
During a call, up to three friends will appear on the bottom of the screen, not unlike a Discord voice call. The size of these boxes can be adjusted. Friends videos can be large, small, or hidden completely. The Direct also shared a Nintendo Switch 2 camera that can be plugged into the console, either in handheld or in docked mode thanks to two USB-C ports. When using the camera, players can appear in the video call as if they are using a green screen over their gameplay.
Game Chat is a huge upgrade for Nintendo’s online functionality. As a bonus, Nintendo is also including a very long open access period where anyone can use Game Chat. You don’t need to have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to take advantage of this new feature until March 31st, 2026. For most of the Switch 2’s first year on the market, Game Chat will be available to anyone. This is a great way to kick off the new console.
Somehow, Nintendo has found a way to bring the feeling of local couch co-op to an online setting. Of course, this is all based on a brief explanatory video, we will have to see how this feature works and feels when the Nintendo Switch 2 launches on June 5th. If the Direct live stream is any indication, the gameplay streaming will be choppy at best.
