Can You Connect 6 Controllers to a Nintendo Switch?
Yes, you absolutely can connect 6 controllers to a Nintendo Switch console. The Nintendo Switch is designed to support a variety of multiplayer gaming scenarios, and connecting six controllers is well within its capabilities. Whether you are looking to engage in a chaotic party game or a competitive racing session, the Switch offers the flexibility to accommodate multiple players.
Understanding Controller Compatibility
The Nintendo Switch supports a diverse range of controllers, including:
- Joy-Con Controllers: The standard controllers that come with the Switch console. These can be used as a pair or individually.
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: A more traditional gamepad favored by many for its comfortable grip and responsive buttons.
- Third-Party Controllers: Various controllers manufactured by other companies that are compatible with the Nintendo Switch.
Regardless of the controller type you use, the Nintendo Switch can handle up to 8 controllers paired simultaneously. This means that mixing and matching different controller types is perfectly acceptable. You can have a setup that includes two Joy-Cons used separately, a Pro Controller, and third-party options all working together seamlessly.
How to Connect Multiple Controllers
Connecting controllers to your Nintendo Switch is a straightforward process:
- From the HOME Menu, navigate to “Controllers”.
- Select “Change Grip/Order”. This will prompt the Switch to search for available controllers.
- On each controller, press and hold the Sync button (usually a small button on the top or back).
- Once a controller is detected, the lights will flash on the controller, indicating it’s ready. The assigned player number will also appear on screen.
- Repeat this process for all six controllers.
Remember that the first four controllers will be assigned to player slots 1-4, and the next controllers that are connected will automatically be assigned higher player numbers. If you’re using individual Joy-Cons, you will be prompted to hold them horizontally to use the SL and SR buttons.
Why Connect Six Controllers?
Connecting six controllers unlocks a whole range of multiplayer options, especially for games that allow more than four players. Popular titles like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and certain party games allow up to 8 players on a single console. With six controllers, you can easily facilitate larger group sessions, making your Nintendo Switch the ultimate party device for friends and family.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to connecting multiple controllers to a Nintendo Switch, providing even more comprehensive information:
1. How Many Controllers Can I Connect to a Switch?
You can connect up to 8 controllers simultaneously to one Nintendo Switch console. This limit includes all types of controllers, such as Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and third-party options.
2. Can I Use a Mix of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers?
Yes, you can absolutely use a mix of Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and other compatible controllers all at the same time. The Switch will recognize and accommodate them all.
3. How Many Players Can Play on One Switch?
You can play with up to 8 players on one Nintendo Switch console at a time, provided you have enough controllers. Games need to support this player count for all 8 to participate simultaneously.
4. Do Wired Controllers Count Towards the Controller Limit?
Yes, wired controllers connected via the USB ports on the Switch dock count toward the maximum of 8 controllers. However, the Nintendo Switch dock only has 3 USB ports which means only 3 wired controllers can be connected at the same time. The remaining 5 controllers would have to be wireless.
5. Can I Connect 6 Joy-Cons Individually?
Yes, you can use 6 Joy-Cons individually as separate controllers. Each Joy-Con is recognized as its own controller, enabling you to have up to 6 separate players using individual Joy-Cons.
6. What Games Support 6 Players on One Switch?
Games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Luigi’s Mansion 3, Runbow, and some party games support 6 or more players on one console. Be sure to check each game’s back of the box or in the games setting before playing to make sure it supports the number of players you would like to play with.
7. How Do I Connect More Than 4 Controllers?
Simply keep pairing controllers using the “Change Grip/Order” setting. The Switch will automatically assign the controllers beyond the fourth to the next available player slots.
8. What Happens If I Try to Connect More Than 8 Controllers?
The Nintendo Switch will not allow you to connect more than 8 controllers. After the 8th is connected, the Switch will not register any more devices that you are trying to connect.
9. Can Multiple Switches Connect for 6-Player Games?
Yes, games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe allow you to connect multiple Nintendo Switch consoles wirelessly for up to 8 players. This however, requires each player to have their own copy of the game. For 6 players to connect, three Switch consoles, each with two players, can join wirelessly via local network.
10. How Many Controllers Come in the Box?
The standard Nintendo Switch comes with two Joy-Con controllers, one left and one right. These can be used as a single pair, or separated for two player gaming.
11. What if My Joy-Con is Not Connecting?
If your Joy-Con isn’t connecting, try:
- Making sure the Joy-Con is properly charged.
- Resyncing the Joy-Con by pressing the Sync button on the top of the controller.
- Check your Switch’s Bluetooth settings and reconnect your controller.
- Updating your Nintendo Switch firmware.
12. Can You Play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with 6 Players on One Console?
No, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe does not support 6 players on one console. You will need multiple consoles connected via local wireless to achieve 6 players, as the maximum on one Switch is up to 4 local players.
13. Can You Play Mario Party with 6 Players?
No, Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch is limited to 4 players on a single console. However, you can play with up to 3 players on each console, connecting multiple systems through local or online play with friends.
14. Do I Need Additional Equipment to Connect Multiple Controllers?
No, you don’t need extra equipment to connect up to eight controllers wirelessly. For wired controllers, you’ll need to plug them into the USB ports on the Switch dock.
15. How Do I Set Up 6 Players for Local Wireless Play?
For local wireless play with 6 players, start by making sure each Switch has their own copy of the game. One player needs to create a room as the “lobby host”. Then, have the remaining players select to join the room, and the game will take it from there.
Conclusion
The Nintendo Switch’s ability to connect 6 controllers makes it an incredibly versatile system for social and multiplayer gaming. With support for various controller types and the ability to handle up to 8 players, the Switch is perfect for parties and group gaming sessions. Whether you are battling in Smash Bros. or racing in Mario Kart, connecting six controllers will ensure that everyone can join the fun.