Are Straps Included in the Nintendo Switch? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, straps are indeed included with every new Nintendo Switch console. Specifically, each Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED Model comes with two Joy-Con wrist straps. These straps are crucial accessories that enhance both the comfort and safety of your gaming experience, particularly when playing motion-controlled games. This article dives into the details of these straps, their purpose, and answers frequently asked questions about them and other related accessories.
Understanding the Joy-Con Wrist Straps
The Joy-Con wrist straps are more than just simple pieces of fabric. They are designed to be attached to the sides of the Joy-Con controllers, offering several key benefits.
Why Use Joy-Con Straps?
- Enhanced Comfort: The straps make holding the Joy-Cons more comfortable for extended play sessions.
- Increased Security: The most important function of the straps is to provide added security by preventing the controllers from slipping out of your hands during active play. This is especially vital during motion-controlled games like Nintendo Switch Sports where players make vigorous movements.
- Improved Button Accessibility: When the straps are attached, they also make it easier for players to press the SL and SR buttons located on the top of the Joy-Cons.
What’s Included in the Box?
Both the standard Nintendo Switch console set and the Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) set include the following:
- Nintendo Switch console (or Nintendo Switch OLED Model console).
- Nintendo Switch dock (with LAN port in the OLED version).
- One Joy-Con (L) controller.
- One Joy-Con (R) controller.
- Two Joy-Con wrist strap accessories.
- Joy-Con grip accessory.
- Nintendo Switch AC adapter.
- HDMI cable.
The Joy-Con straps that come with the console sets are black, and unfortunately, they are not available for individual purchase directly from Nintendo. However, they are readily available from third-party retailers, should you need replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do all Nintendo Switch models come with Joy-Con straps?
Yes, all Nintendo Switch models, including the original Nintendo Switch and the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, include two Joy-Con wrist straps in the box.
2. What is the purpose of the Joy-Con grip?
The Joy-Con grip is an accessory that allows you to combine the two Joy-Con controllers to form a single, more traditional gamepad. This makes it easier to play games that benefit from a standard controller layout. However, the Joy-Con grip that comes with the console does not charge the Joy-Cons. For charging, you need a separate Joy-Con Charging Grip.
3. Does Nintendo Switch come with a leg strap?
The Nintendo Switch console itself does not come with a leg strap. The leg strap is primarily used for the Soccer game mode in Nintendo Switch Sports. The physical version of Nintendo Switch Sports typically includes one leg strap. You can also buy the leg strap separately, which is necessary if you purchased the digital version of the game or want a second leg strap for two-player Soccer sessions.
4. Do I need Joy-Con straps to play Nintendo Switch?
You don’t strictly need the Joy-Con straps to play all Nintendo Switch games. However, they are highly recommended, especially for active games and when using the Joy-Cons separately in motion-controlled play. They improve comfort and prevent the controllers from flying during energetic gameplay.
5. How do I attach the Joy-Con straps?
To attach a Joy-Con strap, slide it onto the side of the Joy-Con controller from top to bottom, using the rail. Make sure you hear a click, indicating that it is properly attached.
6. What games require Joy-Con straps?
Many games benefit from using Joy-Con straps, particularly titles with motion controls, including Nintendo Switch Sports and other games with similar mechanics.
7. Does Nintendo Switch Sports come with 2 leg straps?
No, the physical version of Nintendo Switch Sports comes with only one leg strap. If you want to play soccer with two players on the same system, you will need to purchase a second leg strap separately.
8. Can I purchase Joy-Con straps separately?
The black Joy-Con straps that come with the console are not available for purchase directly from Nintendo. However, third-party retailers sell replacement straps.
9. What accessories do I need for Nintendo Switch Sports?
For most of the games in Nintendo Switch Sports, you only need one Joy-Con controller per player. However, for Soccer, each player will need a pair of Joy-Cons. A leg strap is required for the Soccer mode as well.
10. Can I use a Pro Controller for Nintendo Switch Sports?
No, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is not compatible with Nintendo Switch Sports. You must use the Joy-Con controllers.
11. Is Nintendo Switch Sports worth it?
Nintendo Switch Sports is a popular title that brings back the fun of Wii Sports with updated graphics and new sports. It’s an accessible, enjoyable game for players of all ages and is considered to be a worthwhile purchase for many.
12. Does the OLED Switch look better on TV?
The Nintendo Switch OLED Model has a superior OLED screen that looks amazing in handheld mode. However, when docked and displayed on a TV, the graphics are the same as on the standard Nintendo Switch. It will not look any different on a regular OLED TV than a regular switch model.
13. What’s the difference between the Joy-Con grip and the Joy-Con Charging Grip?
The standard Joy-Con grip combines the Joy-Con controllers into a single unit for comfortable play, but it does not charge them. The Joy-Con Charging Grip allows you to charge your Joy-Cons while using them in the same manner.
14. How many Joy-Cons do you need for multiplayer?
The number of Joy-Cons needed for multiplayer depends on the game. For most games, one Joy-Con per player is sufficient. For games like Nintendo Switch Sports where two players are needed, each player will use one Joy-Con, and for soccer mode, each player will need two Joy-Cons. For up to four players you will need a minimum of two sets of Joy-Cons.
15. Does Nintendo Switch have other accessories?
The Nintendo Switch has a wide variety of accessories, including Joy-Con Charging Grips, Pro Controllers, travel cases, additional docks, and various other peripherals.
Conclusion
The Joy-Con wrist straps are essential accessories included with every new Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED Model. They provide enhanced comfort, security, and improved access to buttons, especially during active motion-controlled gaming. Understanding their purpose and how to use them is crucial for getting the most out of your Nintendo Switch experience. While the included straps are not available for purchase directly, various options are available through third-party retailers. Knowing the answers to common questions helps you navigate the world of Nintendo Switch accessories more confidently and enjoy your gaming sessions to the fullest.