Can I Use the Left Joy-Con for Just Dance? The Ultimate Guide

The short and sweet answer is: Yes, you can use the left Joy-Con for Just Dance on the Nintendo Switch! Whether you prefer it, it’s all you have available, or you’re just experimenting, Just Dance is flexible enough to accommodate your needs. The game primarily tracks motion, so it doesn’t heavily rely on the specific hand holding the controller. Now, let’s dive into the details and other frequently asked questions about playing Just Dance with Joy-Cons and other devices.

Understanding Joy-Con Functionality in Just Dance

Just Dance’s core gameplay revolves around mirroring the on-screen dancer’s moves. The game uses the Joy-Con’s motion sensors to track your arm movements. This means that whether you’re using the left or right Joy-Con, the game is primarily concerned with detecting the movement of the controller in space, not necessarily which hand is holding it.

The beauty of this system is its inclusivity. Whether you’re right-handed, left-handed, or ambidextrous, you can enjoy Just Dance equally. The game is designed to be accessible and fun for everyone. You just have to focus on matching those grooves.

Optimizing Your Just Dance Experience with a Single Joy-Con

While the game allows you to use either Joy-Con, here are a few tips to maximize your enjoyment:

• Comfort is Key: Hold the Joy-Con in whichever hand feels most comfortable and natural to you. This will help you maintain your rhythm and coordination.
• Secure the Strap: Always use the wrist strap attached to the Joy-Con. This is crucial for safety, especially during energetic dance sessions. You wouldn’t want to accidentally fling the controller across the room.
• Calibrate If Needed: If you notice the tracking seems off, try recalibrating the Joy-Con in the Nintendo Switch settings. This ensures the game accurately interprets your movements.
• Stand Clear: Make sure there aren’t any obstructions between you and the Nintendo Switch. A clear line of sight helps the Joy-Con’s sensors track your movements more effectively.
• Don’t Overthink It: Ultimately, Just Dance is about having fun. Focus on enjoying the music and the moves, rather than worrying too much about whether you’re using the “right” Joy-Con.

Considering Alternatives to Joy-Cons

Although Joy-Cons are the official controllers, if you want, you can even use the Just Dance Controller App on your phone.

FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Just Dance and Joy-Cons

Here are some frequently asked questions to provide a comprehensive understanding of how to play Just Dance using the Joy-Cons and other controller options:

1. Can you play Just Dance with one Joy-Con?

Yes, absolutely! Each player only needs one Joy-Con (either left or right) to participate in the dance-off.

2. Can Just Dance be played left-handed?

Definitely! Just Dance doesn’t discriminate. Whether you’re left-handed or right-handed, the game focuses on motion tracking, making it equally enjoyable for everyone.

3. Can you use the Just Dance Controller App instead of Joy-Cons?

Yes, you can. The Just Dance Controller App turns your smartphone into a motion sensor, allowing you to play without Joy-Cons. This is a great alternative if you don’t have enough controllers for all players.

4. How many Joy-Cons can you connect to Just Dance on Switch?

You can connect a maximum of six Joy-Con controllers or six smart devices using the Just Dance Controller App simultaneously. This allows for some massive dance parties.

5. Which Joy-Con is better for Just Dance, left or right?

Neither! It’s purely a matter of personal preference. Both Joy-Cons function identically for motion tracking in Just Dance. Choose the one that feels most comfortable in your hand.

6. Is Just Dance on Switch accurate with Joy-Cons?

Generally, yes. The Joy-Cons offer reasonably accurate motion tracking, especially compared to earlier versions of the game on other consoles. However, factors like lighting, distance from the sensor, and obstructions can affect accuracy.

7. Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play Just Dance?

You only need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription if you want to use the online features, such as the World Dance Floor. The subscription is not required to play the offline modes or Just Dance Unlimited.

8. What do I need to play Just Dance on Switch?

All you need is a Nintendo Switch console, a copy of the Just Dance game, and either Joy-Cons or the Just Dance Controller App on your smartphone.

9. Can you play two-player Just Dance on Switch?

Yes, Just Dance supports two or more players simultaneously. Grab some friends and get ready to dance!

10. Do you need extra controllers for Just Dance?

Not necessarily. If you have enough Joy-Cons for all players, you’re good to go. Otherwise, the Just Dance Controller App is a free and convenient alternative.

11. Can you use Joy-Cons on Just Dance 2023?

Yes, Just Dance 2023 is fully compatible with Joy-Cons. You can also use the Just Dance Controller App as an alternative.

12. What other games can you play with one Joy-Con?

There are several games that support single Joy-Con play, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Snipperclips, and some indie titles.

13. Are left and right Joy-Cons the same internally?

Yes, internally they are basically the same. The joystick and other components are identical. The only difference is the cosmetic color scheme.

14. Can you use the left Joy-Con as the right Joy-Con in other games?

In many games that support single Joy-Con play, you can use either the left or right Joy-Con interchangeably. The game will typically prompt you to select which controller you’re using.

15. Where can I learn more about the intersection of games and learning?

You can explore the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org. The Games Learning Society is dedicated to researching and promoting the educational potential of video games.

Final Thoughts

So, go ahead and grab that left Joy-Con and get your groove on! Just Dance is designed to be inclusive and accessible, so don’t let handedness or controller preferences hold you back. Focus on having fun, learning new moves, and enjoying the music. And remember, you can always switch to the right Joy-Con (or the app) if you change your mind. The most important thing is to dance your heart out!