Table of Contents

Can You Play 4-Player Mario Kart with 2 Joy-Cons? Let’s Dive In!

The short answer is yes, but only for 2 players. The Nintendo Switch’s ingenious Joy-Cons offer incredible versatility, but to fully enjoy 4-player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, you’ll need more controllers. Two Joy-Cons can only accommodate two players. Let’s explore the controller configurations, multiplayer options, and everything else you need to know to get your race on!

Understanding Controller Options for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

The beauty of the Nintendo Switch lies in its adaptability. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a casual player, the Switch offers various controller configurations to suit your needs and budget. Before you rev your engines, it’s essential to understand these options:

Single Joy-Con: Each Joy-Con can be used as a standalone controller, perfect for two-player action right out of the box.
Joy-Con Pair: Connecting both Joy-Cons to the grip creates a traditional-style controller, ideal for solo play or two-player co-op where more precise control is desired.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: This is a premium option offering enhanced comfort and precision, especially beneficial for longer gaming sessions.
Multiple Consoles: Up to eight Nintendo Switch consoles can be linked wirelessly for larger multiplayer gatherings.

Why Two Joy-Cons Aren’t Enough for Four Players

While two Joy-Cons offer a starting point for multiplayer, they simply aren’t enough to accommodate four racers in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Each player needs a dedicated controller or half of a Joy-Con. Here’s why:

Hardware Limitations: The Switch console can only recognize a limited number of inputs from each Joy-Con. Splitting them allows for two distinct control schemes, but not four.
Game Design: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is designed to recognize individual controllers for each player, ensuring fair and responsive gameplay.

Setting Up for 4-Player Mario Kart: The Controller Requirements

To unlock the full potential of 4-player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, you’ll need at least four controllers (or the equivalent). Here’s how you can achieve this:

Four Individual Joy-Cons: This is the most basic setup. You’ll need two pairs of Joy-Cons. Each player uses one Joy-Con held sideways.
Two Pairs of Joy-Cons and Joy-Con Grips: This provides a more comfortable experience, as each pair of Joy-Cons forms a traditional controller.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers: The Pro Controller offers superior ergonomics and precision. You’ll need four of these for a premium 4-player experience.
A Mix-and-Match Approach: Combine different controller types! For example, two players can use Joy-Cons while the other two use Pro Controllers. The Switch seamlessly handles this variety.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up 4-Player Mario Kart

Once you have the necessary controllers, follow these steps to start your 4-player race:

Power On and Sync Controllers: Ensure all controllers are charged and properly synced to your Nintendo Switch. Go to the “Controllers” section in the System Settings menu to pair new controllers.
Launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: From the Nintendo Switch home screen, select the Mario Kart 8 Deluxe game icon.
Select Multiplayer: On the main menu, choose the “Multiplayer” option.
Choose Number of Players: Select “3-4 Players” on the console.
Player Assignment: Each player will need to press a button on their respective controller to join the game. Follow the on-screen prompts to assign controllers to each player.
Customize Your Race: Choose your game mode (Grand Prix, VS Race, Battle), customize race settings (difficulty, items, tracks), and select your characters and karts.
Start Racing! Once everyone is ready, hit the start button and prepare for some chaotic and exhilarating racing action!

Expanding the Fun: 8-Player Local Wireless and Online Play

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe isn’t limited to just four players. You can expand the fun even further!

Local Wireless Play: Up to Eight Players

If you have multiple Nintendo Switch consoles and copies of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, you can connect up to eight players via local wireless.

Each Player Needs a Switch and Game: Ensure each player has their own Nintendo Switch console and a copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (physical or digital).
Local Wireless Mode: On the main menu, select “Wireless Play.”
Create or Join a Room: One player creates a room, and the other players join that room.
Race Together: Once everyone is connected, customize your race settings and start racing!

Online Play: Connecting with Friends and the World

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe also offers robust online multiplayer. You’ll need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access this feature.

Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: Make sure you have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Online Play Mode: On the main menu, select “Online Play.”
Choose Your Mode: Select from various online modes, such as Worldwide, Regional, Friends, or Tournament.
Race Online: Join a race and compete against players from around the world!

The Educational Value of Multiplayer Games

Beyond the sheer fun and excitement, multiplayer games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe offer significant educational benefits. These include:

Social Skills: Multiplayer games encourage communication, cooperation, and teamwork. Players learn to navigate social dynamics, resolve conflicts, and work together towards a common goal.
Strategic Thinking: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe requires strategic thinking and decision-making. Players must adapt to changing circumstances, anticipate their opponents’ moves, and make quick decisions under pressure.
Problem-Solving: Overcoming challenges in multiplayer games requires problem-solving skills. Players must analyze situations, identify potential solutions, and implement strategies to achieve their objectives.

Learn more about the benefits of games and learning at the Games Learning Society, located at GamesLearningSociety.org. They explore the intersection of games and education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with multiple players:

1. Can you play 4 player Mario Kart with 2 switches?

Yes! With two Switches and two copies of the game, you can play with 4 players locally. Set up a local wireless connection for the ultimate co-op experience.

2. Do you need 4 controllers for Mario Kart?

For true 4-player action on a single Switch, yes. You’ll need either four individual Joy-Cons or a combination of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers.

3. Can you play Mario Kart with half a controller?

Absolutely! Each Joy-Con can be used as a separate controller when held sideways, perfect for two-player action right out of the box.

4. How many Joy-Cons do I need for 2 players Mario Kart?

You only need one pair of Joy-Cons for two players. Each player can use one Joy-Con individually.

5. Can you use 4 joy cons on one Switch?

Yes, you can connect up to eight controllers to a single Switch, including Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers.

6. Do you need 2 sets of Joycons for it takes two?

“It Takes Two” requires two controllers with two analog sticks each (one for movement and one for camera). A single Pro Controller for one player and two Joy-Cons used separately for the other player works great!

7. How many controllers can you connect to a Switch Mario Kart?

You can connect up to eight controllers, but the number of players depends on the game itself.

8. Do I need 2 sets of Joycons for Mario Kart?

Not necessarily. You need four controllers for four players. This could be two sets of Joy-Cons, four individual Joy-Cons, or a combination of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers.

9. Can Joy-Cons be used separately?

Yes! That’s one of their key features. Detach them from the console and use them as individual controllers for two-player gaming.

10. Should I get a second set of Joy-Cons?

If you frequently play multiplayer games, a second set of Joy-Cons is a great investment. It allows for four-player action without needing to buy separate Pro Controllers.

11. How to play 4 player Mario Party with 2 controllers?

Unfortunately, 4-player Mario Party with only two controllers isn’t possible. Each player needs their own dedicated Joy-Con.

12. Can you play Mario Kart with more than 4 players?

Yes, you can play with up to 12 players online or 8 players locally using multiple Nintendo Switch consoles.

13. Do you need two sets of Joycons for multiplayer?

It depends on the game. For many games, two Joy-Cons are sufficient for two players. However, for 4-player games, you’ll need additional controllers.

14. How many people can play with Joy-Con?

Each pair of Joy-Cons supports up to two players (one Joy-Con per player).

15. Can you play 4 players on one Switch?

Yes! Just ensure you have enough controllers for everyone to join in on the fun!

Conclusion

While two Joy-Cons are a fantastic starting point for Nintendo Switch multiplayer, unleashing the full potential of 4-player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe requires additional controllers. Whether you opt for individual Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, or a combination of both, gathering your friends and family for some high-octane racing is guaranteed to create lasting memories. So, grab your controllers, start your engines, and get ready for some unforgettable Mario Kart action!

Can you play 4 player Mario Kart with 2 Joycons?