Can You Play Mario Party with One Joy-Con? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can play Mario Party with just one Joy-Con controller. The Nintendo Switch is designed to be flexible, allowing players to use a variety of control configurations, and this includes using a single Joy-Con for multiplayer fun. This functionality opens up gameplay to more people with less hardware, making it easier to jump into a party game with friends and family. Let’s delve deeper into how this works and explore some frequently asked questions surrounding Mario Party and its controller options.
How Does Single Joy-Con Play Work?
The Nintendo Switch‘s Joy-Cons can be used in several ways: attached to the console, used as a pair, or used individually as two separate controllers. When using a single Joy-Con for Mario Party, it’s held horizontally. You’ll use the SL and SR buttons, located on the top edge, to navigate and play the game.
To set up a single Joy-Con for play, you’ll need to:
- Navigate to the “Controllers” option in the Nintendo Switch HOME menu.
- Press both SL and SR buttons on the Joy-Con you want to use.
- The system will then recognize the Joy-Con as a “horizontally held” controller.
Once connected, you’re ready to play Mario Party. This is particularly useful if you only have one set of Joy-Cons but want to play a 2-player game, or if you have multiple players and you’re utilizing individual Joy-Cons for each.
Why Is This Useful?
The ability to use a single Joy-Con for Mario Party is incredibly convenient. Here are a few reasons why:
- Ease of Access for Multiplayer: It allows for easier, more impromptu gameplay. Friends can join in without everyone needing to have their own controller.
- Cost-Effective: You don’t need to buy extra controllers immediately to enjoy multiplayer gaming on your Switch.
- Flexibility: It’s perfect for playing on the go or when you have limited space.
- Inclusivity: It makes gaming more accessible for families and groups where not everyone has their own dedicated controllers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
To further clarify and assist, here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding using Joy-Cons with Mario Party and related controller questions:
1. Can I play all Mario Party games with one Joy-Con?
Generally, yes. Both Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars, the two main Mario Party titles on Nintendo Switch, support single Joy-Con gameplay. The core mechanics remain the same across different modes.
2. How many Joy-Cons do I need for a full 4-player game of Mario Party?
For a full 4-player offline game, you need a minimum of 4 Joy-Cons, where each player uses one controller. You can use two sets of Joy-Cons, or mix and match with Pro Controllers if needed.
3. Can I use a single Joy-Con for two players?
You cannot use a single Joy-Con for two players simultaneously. Each player must have their own separate controller. However, you can split a pair of Joy-Cons so that each player gets one.
4. Do I need to buy an extra set of Joy-Cons to play with a friend?
Not necessarily. If you bought your Nintendo Switch new, it comes with two Joy-Cons which can be split to allow two players to play with one Joy-Con each right out of the box. If you want more than two players, then additional controllers would be required.
5. Can I use a Pro Controller instead of Joy-Cons for Mario Party?
Yes, you can use a Pro Controller instead of Joy-Cons. This is particularly useful for players who prefer the traditional gamepad style for extended play sessions.
6. How do I switch to single Joy-Con mode from playing with a pair?
To switch to single Joy-Con mode, press the connect button (the small button between the SL and SR buttons) on each Joy-Con, then press the SL and SR buttons on the specific Joy-Con you want to use.
7. What other games can I play with only one Joy-Con?
Besides Mario Party, several games support single Joy-Con play. Notable examples include Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Lovers in a Dangerous Spacetime.
8. Is Mario Party enjoyable with only two players?
Absolutely. Even with two players, Mario Party can be a blast, especially if you include CPU players to fill out the party or play team modes.
9. Is Super Mario Party or Mario Party Superstars better for two players?
Both games offer a great experience for two players. Super Mario Party offers newer game modes and more unique dice, while Mario Party Superstars leans into nostalgia and offers larger boards with a faster pace.
10. Do I need two copies of Mario Party to play with another Switch system?
Yes, for Toad’s Rec Room mode (in Super Mario Party) or local play with a friend on separate systems, each system must have a copy of the game.
11. Can I play online with just one Joy-Con?
Yes, you can play online with one Joy-Con. The controller functionality remains the same regardless of whether you’re playing offline or online.
12. Is Mario Party worth buying just for single-player mode?
While Mario Party shines as a multiplayer experience, it does offer single-player options like Challenge Road in Super Mario Party, allowing you to enjoy minigames and modes by yourself. However, it is primarily designed for social play.
13. Can I mix Joy-Cons and other controllers in a game of Mario Party?
Yes, you can mix Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and even GameCube controllers (with adapter) in a game of Mario Party, provided you have enough for each player.
14. How many controllers can the Nintendo Switch connect to at once?
The Nintendo Switch can connect to up to 8 controllers at the same time, making it perfect for big group gaming sessions.
15. Are there any disadvantages to playing Mario Party with a single Joy-Con?
While functional, some players might find a single Joy-Con less ergonomic than a pair or a Pro Controller. This could affect their comfort during longer play sessions and may impact your control if you are used to the traditional controls.
Conclusion
Playing Mario Party with a single Joy-Con is not only possible but also incredibly convenient, ensuring the accessibility of the game for a wide range of players. It opens up gaming sessions to more people without requiring multiple sets of controllers. With the variety of control options available, the Nintendo Switch truly caters to diverse playstyles, making it a fantastic console for social gaming. So, grab your Joy-Con, invite your friends, and get ready to roll those dice!