Can You Play Skyward Sword with Joy-Cons? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can play The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword HD on the Nintendo Switch with Joy-Cons. In fact, the game was specifically designed with Joy-Con functionality in mind, offering both motion control and button-only control schemes. Let’s dive into the specifics of how this works and address some common questions.
Unlocking the Skies: How Joy-Cons Enhance Skyward Sword HD
The original Skyward Sword on the Wii was heavily reliant on the Wii Remote and Nunchuk for motion controls. The HD remaster for the Nintendo Switch retains this option through the Joy-Cons, allowing players to experience the game in a similar way, but with improved responsiveness. The key is to use the left and right Joy-Cons detached from the grip, mimicking the original Wii setup. This allows you to control Link’s sword with precise movements.
The motion controls are accessed by using the left and right Joy-Con without the grip. The wrist-strap rails are recommended for safety. Waving the right Joy-Con in the air allows you to perform thrusts and slices with the sword.
However, if motion controls aren’t your cup of tea, or if you’re playing on a Nintendo Switch Lite, you’ll be happy to know that Skyward Sword HD also offers a complete button control scheme. This lets you play the entire game without any motion input, using the analog sticks and buttons to control Link’s actions. This is a great option for players who prefer a more traditional control scheme, or for those playing in situations where motion controls aren’t practical.
Mastering the Controls: Motion vs. Buttons
The motion controls in Skyward Sword HD aim to replicate the immersive experience of the original Wii game. By swinging the right Joy-Con, you control Link’s sword, performing various attacks and maneuvers. The left Joy-Con controls Link’s shield and movement. This control scheme can take some getting used to, but many players find it to be more engaging and intuitive once they master it.
The button controls, on the other hand, offer a more traditional gaming experience. The right analog stick controls Link’s sword, while the left analog stick controls movement. Other actions, such as using items and jumping, are mapped to the various buttons on the Joy-Cons. This control scheme is easier to pick up for players who are new to motion controls, or who simply prefer a more conventional control setup.
Switching Between Control Schemes
One of the best features of Skyward Sword HD is the ability to seamlessly switch between motion and button controls. This allows you to experiment with both schemes and find the one that best suits your play style and preferences.
To switch from motion controls to button-only controls, press the + Button during gameplay to open the Gear menu, then access the Options menu and select Button-Only Controls.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Skyward Sword HD and Joy-Cons
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify how Skyward Sword HD works with Joy-Cons:
1. Can I play Skyward Sword HD on the Switch Lite?
Yes, you can play Skyward Sword HD on the Nintendo Switch Lite using the button control scheme. Since the Switch Lite doesn’t have detachable Joy-Cons, motion controls are not an option.
2. Do I need special Joy-Cons to play Skyward Sword HD?
No, you don’t need special Joy-Cons. Any standard Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons will work with the game. There was a special edition Joy-Con released with Skyward Sword HD, but they are not required.
3. Are motion controls required to beat Skyward Sword HD?
No, motion controls are not required. You can play the entire game using the button control scheme.
4. How do I aim with button controls in Skyward Sword HD?
When using button controls, you aim with the right analog stick. This allows for precise control over Link’s sword and other actions.
5. Can I use the Pro Controller with Skyward Sword HD?
Yes, you can use the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller with Skyward Sword HD. However, motion controls are not available when using the Pro Controller, so you’ll need to use the button control scheme.
6. Is Skyward Sword HD easier than the original?
Some fans consider Skyward Sword to be among the easier games in the Zelda franchise, though the game’s boss fights require precision. The improved controls and quality-of-life improvements in the HD version may make it feel even more accessible.
7. How long does it take to beat Skyward Sword HD?
When focusing on the main objectives, The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword is about 38 Hours in length. If you strive to see all aspects of the game, you are likely to spend around 58 Hours to obtain 100% completion.
8. What is the story of Skyward Sword about?
Skyward Sword is the earliest story in the Zelda timeline. It tells the origin story of the Master Sword and the battle between good and evil that defines the entire series.
9. Are there any new features in Skyward Sword HD?
Yes, Skyward Sword HD features several improvements over the original, including improved graphics, smoother frame rates, and the aforementioned button control scheme. There are also various quality-of-life improvements, such as faster dialogue and skippable cutscenes.
10. Why can’t I swim in Skyward Sword?
You can only dive underwater once you have the Water Dragon’s Scale, which can be obtained by completing the “The Silent Realm – Faron Woods” quest during the earlier stages of the game. Once you have the Water Dragon’s Scale, you can dive underwater at will.
11. Can I play Skyward Sword HD co-op?
While Skyward Sword HD doesn’t have traditional co-op, some players have found creative ways to play together using separate Joy-Cons. One player can control movement and targeting with the left Joy-Con, while the other controls attacking and jumping with the right Joy-Con.
12. What other Switch games require motion controls?
Besides Skyward Sword HD, some other Switch games that utilize motion controls include Nintendo Switch Sports, Mario Golf: Super Rush, Just Dance, and Metroid Prime Remastered.
13. Is Skyward Sword HD good in handheld mode?
Yes, Skyward Sword HD is generally considered to be good in handheld mode. The button controls make it particularly well-suited for playing on the go.
14. Is Skyward Sword HD a direct sequel to another Zelda game?
No, Skyward Sword HD is not a direct sequel. It’s the first game in the Zelda timeline, serving as a prequel to all other games in the series.
15. How do the motion controls compare to the original Wii version?
Many players find the motion controls in Skyward Sword HD to be more responsive and accurate than the original Wii version, thanks to improvements in Joy-Con technology.
Diving Deeper: The Legacy of Skyward Sword
Skyward Sword, regardless of the version you play, holds a significant place in the Zelda canon. It lays the groundwork for much of the lore and mythology that defines the series. While it had its detractors upon its initial release, its legacy has only grown stronger over time. Its unique art style, compelling story, and innovative gameplay mechanics continue to resonate with fans old and new.
The HD remaster ensures that Skyward Sword remains accessible to a modern audience, offering both the nostalgic appeal of motion controls and the convenience of button-only controls. Whether you’re a longtime Zelda fan or a newcomer to the series, Skyward Sword HD is an adventure worth experiencing.
As games become even more interactive and immersive, understanding how players engage with different control schemes and narratives is vital. The Games Learning Society actively explores these themes and can offer valuable insights. To learn more, visit GamesLearningSociety.org.