Nintendo announced the Nintendo Switch Lite today, and among many of the new features that people spotted, one of the most noticeable was the inclusion of a regular D-Pad as opposed to four separate directional buttons on a normal Nintendo Switch Joy-Con. This got people wondering if Nintendo would finally release a separate Joy-Con with a D-Pad, but it turns out that wasn't meant to be as the company announced that it had "no plans" to release an updated Joy-Con.
That doesn't mean you're out of luck, though. Accessories manufacturer HORI already sells an officially licensed left Joy-Con with a D-Pad. It maintains nearly all of the same functionality as a Nintendo Joy-Con except it can only be used in portable/handheld mode. It will not work as a wireless controller. You can pick up either a Mario or Zelda-themed Joy-Con with a D-Pad.
Considering that a lot of people tend to play titles in handheld mode anyway, there isn't too much of a drawback for using the HORI Joy-Con. If you do want to play with the Joy-Cons detached, however, you'll need to use another controller.
Third-party hardware saves the day
This left Joy-Con is officially licensed and sports the coveted D-pad that many players are clamoring for. It's perfect for all of you Legend of Zelda fans out there.
You don't need Nintendo to make a Joy-Con
Another officially licensed controller from HORI for those looking for a D-pad. This time you're transported to the Mushroom Kingdom with this Super-Mario themed left Joy-Con.
