Outspoken peripheral company Dbrand has addressed concerns that its Killswitch case for the Nintendo Switch 2 may cause Joy-Cons to detach more easily. This response comes after numerous reports from players indicating that the console’s controllers can become dislodged when held in certain ways.
Over the past week, users have taken to Reddit to share their experiences with the Killswitch case, noting that the Joy-Cons detach more readily compared to the standard Switch 2 without a case. Dbrand responded to these claims, providing a detailed explanation of the issue.
Understanding the Detachment Issue
According to Dbrand, the Nintendo Switch 2 is designed with a small gap between the Joy-Con and the console, approximately half a millimeter, to prevent unintentional detachment. This design requires players to press the release button to remove the Joy-Con. However, Dbrand’s Killswitch case fills this gap, altering the fulcrum point and providing mechanical leverage, which can lead to easier detachment.
“With the Killswitch, that air gap gets filled, forming a continuous structure between the Joy-Cons and the main center console. This changes the fulcrum point and gives you mechanical leverage when ‘folding’ the Joy-Cons off,” Dbrand explained.
The company further clarified that the case does not weaken the connection but rather engages it sooner, as the lip of the case eliminates the buffer that absorbs initial movement. This explanation has sparked significant discussion on Dbrand’s Reddit page, with users posting videos to demonstrate the issue.
Dbrand’s Response and User Reactions
In a lengthy Reddit post, Dbrand suggested that the detachment scenario is unlikely to occur during normal use. The company compared the situation to the viral phenomenon of mixing Mentos with Diet Coke, implying that users are deliberately trying to create the issue.
“On these points, we need to be a bit firm: nobody routinely holds their Switch 2 like this,” Dbrand asserted, emphasizing that the detachment occurs only under specific conditions.
Dbrand acknowledged that some cases might have manufacturing tolerances resulting in a thicker lip, which could exacerbate the issue. The company plans to adjust its production guidelines to address this.
“We have adjusted our tolerance guidelines for mass production to filter out any Joy-Cons that cross that ‘lip is 0.12mm too thick’ threshold,” Dbrand stated.
Despite these assurances, user reactions have been mixed. Some have drawn parallels to the infamous “Antennagate” with the iPhone 4, where users were told to avoid holding the phone in a certain way to prevent signal loss. Others have pointed out that users with smaller hands, including children, might naturally hold the console by the Joy-Cons.
Historical Context and Dbrand’s Controversial Reputation
Dbrand is no stranger to controversy. The company has previously clashed with major manufacturers, often framing itself as a rebellious entity. In 2023, it released unofficial Switch decals resembling those of a limited edition Zelda-themed console, with hidden messages mocking potential legal challenges.
In 2021, Dbrand introduced custom PS5 faceplates, daring Sony to take legal action. Sony did respond, leading to the discontinuation of the faceplates. Dbrand’s bold approach has earned it a reputation for pushing boundaries, both in product design and marketing.
Looking Ahead
As Dbrand continues to address the Killswitch case concerns, the company remains committed to refining its products. It has invited users experiencing issues to contact their support team, while also acknowledging that some detachment scenarios may persist due to the non-adhesive design of the Joy-Con grip.
“We cannot state this enough: not, in any way, reflective of how people actually hold their Switch 2,” Dbrand concluded in its statement.
The company’s unapologetic tone and willingness to engage with its community may help mitigate backlash, but the situation underscores the challenges peripheral makers face when designing products for popular gaming consoles. As the first batch of revised cases rolls out, it remains to be seen how effectively Dbrand can balance user satisfaction with its distinctive brand identity.
