Nintendo Switch Joy Cons are like car tyres, according to one exec

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Nintendo has apparently been strengthening the reliability test for the Joy Cons

Nintendo Switch
(Image credit: Nintendo)

A Nintendo executive has compared the Switch's Joy Cons to car tyres in their durability and operation. 

Speaking in the last 'Ask the Developer' newsletter, Nintendo technology general manager Ko Shiota spoke about the inevitable nature of wear and tear to the Nintendo Switch Joy Cons. "Yes," said Shiota when asked if wear was unavoidable. "For example car tires wear out as the car moves, as they are in constant friction with the ground to rotate. So with that same premise, we asked ourselves how we can improve durability, and not only that, but how can both operability and durability coexist?"

Elsewhere in the newsletter, deputy general manager Toru Yamashita addressed improvements made to the Nintendo Switch Joy Cons since launch in 2017. "Joy-Con controllers have lots of different features, so we’ve been continuing to make improvements that may not always be visible," Yamashita stated. "Among others, the analogue stick parts have continuously been improved since launch, and we are still working on improvements."

Yamshita went on to add that the Nintendo Switch Joy Cons cleared the same reliability test at launch that was originally put to the Wii U Gamepad's analog sticks. Since then however, Nintendo has improved the reliability test itself, and have "continued to make changes to improve durability and clear this new test," according to Yamashita.

If you've been experiencing these problems of late, you can read up on our guide on how to fix Joy Con drift on the Nintendo Switch for more. Or check how to charge Joy-Cons for Nintendo Switch here.

Hirun Cryer
Hirun Cryer

Hirun Cryer is a freelance reporter and writer with Gamesradar+ based out of U.K. After earning a degree in American History specializing in journalism, cinema, literature, and history, he stepped into the games writing world, with a focus on shooters, indie games, and RPGs, and has since been the recipient of the MCV 30 Under 30 award for 2021. In his spare time he freelances with other outlets around the industry, practices Japanese, and enjoys contemporary manga and anime.