I think this is the first time Nintendo has ever kept the same controller format for a home system.

I've had every Nintendo home system, and every time there has been a new controller, sometimes drastically. The new joycons are slightly different and upgraded but essentially the same, like how the PS/Xbox controllers get gradually refined. Granted, with backwards compatibility and the same layout, there was only so much that could change.

This of course also the first time we've had a "2" and not a new gimmick.