Portal 2 co-op permanently activates mic, showing quirks with Switch 2 backward compatibility
With a smaller selection of Switch 2 games, the console's backward compatibility is an asset. However, while most previous-gen titles function, some behave unpredictably. Recently, Redditors discovered that the Portal 2 Switch version recognizes the new handheld's internal mic. Unfortunately, there is no option to disable the audio input.
The original console lacked an integrated mic, forcing multiplayer gamers to rely on a headset or the Nintendo Switch Online app. With the arrival of GameChat, the company felt compelled to add the capability to the Switch 2 specs.
Portal 2 is 2011 puzzle-platformer that didn't arrive on the Switch until 2022. On other platforms, it begins recording voices when it detects an external mic connection. Then, when the accessory disconnects, the game stops listening for chatters. It recognizes the Switch 2 mic as always on, which could lead to some embarrassing moments.
On the Switch 2 subreddit, a poster demonstrated the quirk with the latest handheld's backward compatibility. There appears to be no microphone-related option in the Portal 2 menus. Also, the relevant Switch 2 system settings only affect GameChat.
Nintendo doesn't list any Portal 2 issues on its compatibility list for Switch 2 games. Valve will likely have to release a patch to address the always-on mic.
With some Switch 2 games, the perpetually listening internal mic might be an annoyance. Still, it raises some potential privacy concerns. Nintendo itself also faced scrutiny when it revealed that GameChat would temporarily store audio and video recordings on the console. The feature ensures the safety of younger gamers, but not all users appreciate the constant monitoring.
