Nintendo has filed a patent application, which is presumably related to the development of joysticks utilizing "smart fluid," potentially aimed at addressing the "drift" issue

The patent details a joystick that utilizes "magnetorheological fluid" (MRF), which changes its viscosity depending on the intensity of a magnetic field. This allows for resistance to be created when a player moves the joystick with their finger, and the joystick automatically returns to its original position when the player removes their finger.

This technology is reminiscent of Hall effect joysticks found in some modern devices, which use magnets to detect motion. The key difference here is the absence of moving parts, which eliminates the "drift" problem.

According to the patent, the speed of the joystick returning to its original position can be increased by using MRF in the controller. Additionally, it can create a sensory experience for the user both through the movement of the joystick and its return to the original position.

One of the diagrams in the patent demonstrates how MRF can change its viscosity as the player moves the joystick, creating resistance and returning the joystick to its original position.

Since the technical language in the patent can be somewhat unclear, the mention of "representation of sensation for the user" may mean creating a "natural" sensation of resistance, similar to what players experience with traditional analog joysticks. It may also offer the potential for developers to customize the fluid's resistance to provide force or resistance feedback, similar to what is found in the DualSense controller triggers for the PS5, especially in racing games.

However, it remains uncertain whether this new joystick design will be incorporated into a future version of the Nintendo Switch, replacing the standard Joy-Con controllers, or if it will be used at all. Not all patents in the video game industry translate into actual products. Nintendo has previously announced that it will repair all Joy-Con controllers experiencing "drift" issues in the EU and the UK, indicating that this problem is still relevant. If this patent can offer a solution to this problem, it could be a significant step for Nintendo's future console.