Can I Play Just Dance with a Controller? The Ultimate Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
The short answer is: it depends on the platform and the version of Just Dance you’re playing! While you might need a traditional controller for menu navigation on some consoles, the core movement tracking that defines the Just Dance experience typically relies on other peripherals like motion controllers (like PlayStation Move), cameras (like PlayStation Camera or Kinect – on older versions), or, most commonly these days, the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone. Let’s break down the nuances of controller compatibility across different platforms and game editions to give you the full picture.
Understanding Controller Options Across Platforms
The Just Dance franchise has evolved over the years, adapting to new console technologies and player preferences. This means controller options vary significantly depending on which version and platform you’re using.
Nintendo Switch
On the Nintendo Switch, you can use either Joy-Con controllers or the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone. The Joy-Cons, with their built-in motion sensors, allow for direct movement tracking without any extra purchases. The Just Dance 2023 Edition works seamlessly with both. If you have a Nintendo Switch Lite, the Joy-Cons are NOT required! You can either be scored by using Joy-Cons or the Just Dance 2023 Controller app. Make sure the app is compatible first.
PlayStation Consoles
For PlayStation consoles, the controller situation is a bit more complex.
- Older Versions: Earlier Just Dance titles on PlayStation supported the PlayStation Move controller and the PlayStation Camera for motion tracking. You could also use a DualShock 4 controller for menu navigation in conjunction with the PlayStation Camera.
- Just Dance 2023: However, Just Dance 2023 does NOT support the PlayStation Camera. The primary method for motion tracking is the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone. A DualSense controller is also required for menu navigation.
Xbox Consoles
Similar to PlayStation, Xbox has seen changes in supported peripherals:
- Older Versions: Previously, Kinect was a popular way to play Just Dance on Xbox, providing full-body tracking.
- Just Dance 2023: Unfortunately, newer Xbox consoles (like the Xbox Series X|S) don’t have native Kinect support. For Just Dance 2023, you’ll need an Xbox wireless controller for menu navigation and the Just Dance Controller App on a smartphone for motion tracking.
Other Platforms
- Stadia: When Stadia was available, it supported the Just Dance Controller App.
The Rise of the Smartphone Controller App
The Just Dance Controller App has become the most universally compatible and accessible way to play Just Dance. It eliminates the need for expensive motion controllers or cameras, using your smartphone’s accelerometer and gyroscope to track your movements. Each player needs to download the app on their respective smartphones to participate. This democratization of the Just Dance experience has made the game more accessible to a broader audience. You can follow Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org to get to know more about the latest evolution in the game.
Just Dance 2023: What You Really Need
To play Just Dance 2023, here’s a concise breakdown of what you need for each platform:
- Nintendo Switch: Joy-Cons or the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
- PlayStation 5: DualSense controller for menu navigation and the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
- Xbox Series X|S: Xbox wireless controller for menu navigation and the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify controller compatibility and other aspects of Just Dance:
1. Do I need a motion controller for Just Dance 2023?
Not necessarily. While older versions might have supported motion controllers like PlayStation Move or Kinect, Just Dance 2023 primarily uses the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone for motion tracking.
2. Can I play Just Dance without a camera?
Yes! On platforms like Nintendo Switch and newer Xbox consoles, the game tracks your movement through your Joy-Cons or smartphone using the Just Dance Controller App.
3. Does Just Dance 2023 require a camera?
Just Dance 2023 on PlayStation does NOT support the PlayStation Camera. You must use the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
4. What is the best console to play Just Dance?
Many consider the Nintendo Switch the best console for Just Dance because it doesn’t require additional purchases like Kinect or PlayStation Camera. The Joy-Cons are included with the console.
5. Do I need special equipment for Just Dance 2023?
No additional accessories are generally required. Just use your smartphone with the Just Dance Controller App!
6. How many move controllers do you need for Just Dance?
This depends on the version and platform. For older PlayStation versions, you could use up to 4 PlayStation Move Controllers or 6 players with a PlayStation Camera. The Just Dance Controller App supports up to 6 players on all compatible platforms.
7. Is Just Dance 2023 only digital?
No, it is not. Just Dance 2023 is available as a “Code in box”, meaning you get a physical box with a digital code inside, for a convenient way to access the game digitally.
8. Is Just Dance 2023 worth it?
Just Dance 2023 is fun and entertaining, but the base game has around 40 songs. If you want more variety, you might consider the Just Dance+ subscription.
9. What controller do you use for Just Dance 2023 on PlayStation 5?
You use the DualSense Controller for menu navigation and the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone for motion tracking.
10. Do you have to buy Just Dance every year?
No, you don’t have to. You can play the base game with its included songs without a subscription. The Just Dance+ subscription offers additional songs.
11. Do you need to buy Just Dance to use Just Dance Unlimited/Plus?
Yes, you need the base game to use either Just Dance Unlimited (for older titles) or Just Dance+ (for newer titles like Just Dance 2023).
12. Do you have to pay for songs in Just Dance?
You get around 40 songs with the base game. For more songs, you can subscribe to Just Dance+.
13. Does Just Dance 2023 need a sensor?
The Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone acts as the motion sensor.
14. Do you need a dance mat for Just Dance on Xbox?
No, you don’t need a dance mat. You can play using Kinect (on older versions) or the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.
15. What is the difference between Just Dance Standard and Ultimate Editions?
The Standard Edition is the base game. The Deluxe Edition comes with a three-month Just Dance Unlimited subscription, and the Ultimate Edition includes a one-year subscription to Just Dance Unlimited. Keep in mind that Just Dance Unlimited is no longer available and has been replaced with the Just Dance+ subscription.
Conclusion
While traditional controllers aren’t typically used for movement tracking in Just Dance, they often serve a purpose for menu navigation. The Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone has become the standard for motion tracking, making the game accessible across various platforms without the need for additional expensive accessories. Ultimately, the best way to experience Just Dance is to grab your friends, download the app, and let loose on the dance floor!