How to Play 4 Players on Smash Bros. Switch Online: A Comprehensive Guide

Playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with friends is a blast, and the chaotic fun multiplies when you get four players in the mix. However, navigating the online multiplayer options can be a little tricky. The short answer is: You cannot directly have four players on one Nintendo Switch console playing online against others. The game’s online infrastructure limits a single console to a maximum of two players online simultaneously. To achieve a 4-player online experience, you’ll need multiple Nintendo Switch consoles and corresponding copies of the game, alongside active Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) memberships for each involved player. This article delves into the specifics of how to set up a 4-player online Smash session, and answers related frequently asked questions.

Setting Up a 4-Player Online Smash Session

The process involves a combination of local and online setup. Here’s the detailed breakdown:

1. Multiple Nintendo Switch Consoles Required: Each player participating in your four-way battle needs their own Nintendo Switch console and a digital or physical copy of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.

2. Nintendo Switch Online Memberships: Every Nintendo Switch console that will be used to play online must have an active Nintendo Switch Online (NSO) membership. This is a crucial prerequisite for accessing the online features of the game.

3. Individual Player Setup:

   • Start Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on each console.
   • Ensure each player has a Nintendo Account linked to their console.
   • Connect to the Internet. Confirm that each console can successfully access online services.

4. Create or Join a Battle Arena:

• One player (let’s call them Player 1) should navigate to the Online menu from the main game screen.
• Player 1 should then select Battle Arena.
• Next, select Create Arena to host the session.
• Customize the Arena settings as desired (e.g., rules, stage preferences) and decide whether you want to set a password for the arena.
• The other players (Players 2, 3, and 4) should navigate to the same Online menu, select Battle Arena, and then choose Search for Arena.
• They can locate Player 1’s arena using the arena name or the password, if set.

1. Prepare for Battle:

• Once all the players have joined the Arena, the host player can begin the battles.

Important Considerations for 4-Player Online Smash

• No Direct 4-Player Online from One Console: The key takeaway is that a single Nintendo Switch can only have a maximum of two players participating in online matches.
• Communication: Voice chat via the Nintendo Switch Online app (for smartphones and tablets) can be used for easier coordination with your friends, especially if you plan on 2v2 setups in the Battle Arena.
• Team Battles: While 4-player free-for-alls are possible, many players enjoy 2v2 team matches, which can be set up in the Battle Arena. Just remember that the game randomizes team order, so players need to re-pair for each game.
• Lag: Connection quality impacts the online experience. Stable internet connections are essential for smooth gameplay. If any of the players have poor internet, lag can disrupt the fun for everyone.
• Battle Arena Flexibility: Battle Arenas are your most versatile option for playing with specific players online. You can set the rules, stage options and whether to use a password to ensure only your friends join.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I play 4-player Smash Bros. online using a single Nintendo Switch console?

No, you cannot directly play 4-player Smash Bros. online from one Nintendo Switch console. The game limits a single console to a maximum of two players online at a time.

2. Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for each player?

Yes, every Nintendo Switch console used to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate online must have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

3. Can I play 2v2 online with a friend using the same console?

Yes, you can have two players on one console team up online in a 2v2 match. The limiting factor is that each console can only have a maximum of two players online.

4. How do I play 2v2 online with friends on different consoles?

To play 2v2 with friends on different consoles, use the Battle Arena feature. Create an arena and have your friends join. Be aware that the game randomizes teams, so you may need to re-pair after each match.

5. Can I use local wireless play to connect multiple switches for 4 player Smash?

Yes, local wireless is another way to play 4 player Smash, if all players are physically nearby. In this scenario, each player needs their own console and copy of the game, but you do not need an internet connection.

6. Can 8 players battle online using linked consoles?

While the game supports up to 8 players locally using multiple consoles, online play is still limited by the two-player-per-console rule. You can, however, create an 8-player Battle Arena using four consoles with two players each.

7. How many controllers can I connect to a Nintendo Switch for local play?

You can connect up to 8 controllers to a Nintendo Switch console simultaneously. These controllers can be any combination of Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers.

8. Does it matter what type of controller I use to play Smash Bros?

No, the controller type does not matter as long as it is compatible with the Nintendo Switch. You can use Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, or even third-party controllers.

9. Can I play online Smash Bros without Nintendo Switch Online?

No, a Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required to access the online features of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and to play with friends online.

10. How do I create a Battle Arena for 4 players online?

Navigate to the Online menu from the main game screen, then select Battle Arena. Select Create Arena to host the session and customize the settings. Friends can join from Search for Arena in the same menu.

11. Can I password-protect my Battle Arena?

Yes, you can set a password for your Battle Arena using the X Button to ensure only your friends join.

12. How do I communicate with friends while playing online?

The Nintendo Switch does not offer voice chat in-game. You can use the Nintendo Switch Online app on smartphones and tablets for voice chat or use an external voice chat service.

13. What if I experience lag while playing online?

Lag can occur due to poor internet connections. Ensure that all players have a stable internet connection. If the issue persists, try restarting your modem or router.

14. Can I play 4-player free-for-all matches online?

Yes, you can set up 4-player free-for-all matches in Battle Arenas. This is also where 2v2 matches can be created using two players per console.

15. Do we all need the same version of the game to play together online?

Yes, all players must have the same version of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate installed to play together online. If the game has received any updates, it is vital all consoles are updated to the same version before attempting to connect.