On January 7, Hitachi launched its proprietary Ruby Spotter voice command recognition software for the Nintendo Switch 2. With it, game developers will be able to incorporate voice-based features that make use of the console’s built-in microphone (the small hole located at the top right-hand side beside the game cartridge slot).
While already available for car navigation systems, consumer devices, and industrial equipment, Hitachi’s decision to port Ruby Spotter to the Switch 2 was made to create a new type of gaming interface. Since speaking into a microphone leaves your hands free, the company hopes to enable “highly flexible operations” that would be difficult to execute using traditional UIs. It was highlighted as a novel way to select menus, control characters, and issue strategic commands. In developers’ hands, it could also allow for more player creativity and immersion in their games.
According to Hitachi, Ruby Spotter supports over 40 languages and boasts high recognition accuracy, even in environments with lots of noise. The company even factored in players who aren’t using a headset, as the software takes into account loud sound effects and background music. To ensure that it doesn’t affect game performance, Ruby Spotter requires minimal CPU load and memory consumption from the Switch 2.
Nintendo is no stranger to unconventional game controls. Several Wii and Wii U exclusives made creative use of the Wii Remote’s and Wii U GamePad’s features, respectively. Likewise, some Nintendo DS titles utilized the portable console’s stylus, dual-screen, and built-in microphone to great effect. Nintendogs, in particular, tasked players to use the microphone for actions such as blowing bubbles and talking to their virtual pets. As the Switch 2 was made to be a family-friendly, creative console, there are several ways developers can make use of this new voice-based software.
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