Nintendo has been experimenting with various ideas, and patents are a very important part of this process. Sometimes it submits hardware-related files, and sometimes it focuses more on the gaming experience.
In this case, it's about the gameplay aspect of things. The latest documents show that Nintendo is focusing on improving the game's mini-map. According to Axios' Stephen Totilo, its gist is to make "better mini-maps" for series like Jet Fighter.
You can view the original documents of your patent application here
。 Throughout the patent, there are plenty of references to "shooting ink" and "painting" areas – which means it could be related to the upcoming Switch game Jet Fighter 3. Here's a short summary:
"This minimap approach is designed to make it easier for players to know their own location, as well as the location of useful items and other imported areas on the map. The camera used will dynamically move according to the instantaneous movement, as well as the changing important areas on the map. ”
As with all patents, it's unclear if Nintendo will add it further to the game, and players will have to wait until this year's Jet Fighter 3 release.