Can You Play Smash Bros. Ultimate with Joy-Cons? A Comprehensive Guide
Yes, you absolutely can play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with Joy-Cons. In fact, the game is designed to be versatile in its control options, allowing players to use a variety of controller types, including single Joy-Cons, paired Joy-Cons, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, and even GameCube controllers with an adapter. This flexibility makes Smash Ultimate incredibly accessible and enjoyable for players of all kinds.
Control Options in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
One of the strengths of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is its robust support for various controller configurations. This ensures that players can choose the control method that best suits their preferences and play style. Let’s break down the controller options available:
Single Joy-Con
- How it Works: A single Joy-Con can be held horizontally and used as a standalone controller. To activate this mode, you press the SL and SR buttons on top of the Joy-Con. This configuration is ideal for casual play or when you need a quick way to get multiple players involved.
- Pros: Extremely convenient for multiplayer since it allows two players to use a single set of Joy-Cons. It’s also perfect for on-the-go play.
- Cons: Can be less comfortable for extended play sessions compared to other controllers. The smaller button layout may also hinder precise movements for some players. The lack of a traditional D-Pad can be a disadvantage in more complex fighting games.
Paired Joy-Cons
- How it Works: Players can use both the left and right Joy-Cons connected to the console or as independent controllers. This setup provides a more traditional controller feel.
- Pros: Offers a more comfortable and complete control scheme with access to both analog sticks and a full button layout.
- Cons: Can be less ideal for multiplayer on one console if you don’t have additional sets of controllers.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
- How it Works: The Pro Controller is a dedicated, full-sized controller for the Nintendo Switch that many players prefer for their overall comfort and precision.
- Pros: Highly comfortable for long play sessions, provides a superior D-pad, and allows for precise controls. Considered by many to be the ideal choice for serious Smash Ultimate players.
- Cons: It’s an additional purchase, so it is not included in the box.
GameCube Controller
- How it Works: For players who prefer the classic feel, the GameCube controller can be used with a compatible adapter.
- Pros: The controller is well-liked by veteran Smash players, and provides a comfortable experience that many feel is superior to other control options.
- Cons: Requires an additional adapter and the availability of original or recreated gamecube controllers.
How to Switch to Single Joy-Con Mode
Switching to single Joy-Con mode is straightforward:
- Press the connect button on both Joy-Cons (located between the SL and SR buttons).
- Then, press the SL and SR buttons on the Joy-Con you want to use as a standalone controller.
This simple process allows you to quickly switch between different control schemes for flexible play.
Is It Recommended?
While Joy-Cons are indeed a viable option for playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, there are considerations to keep in mind. For casual play, the single Joy-Con is perfectly adequate and convenient. However, for more serious play or for longer sessions, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or even a GameCube controller with an adapter may provide a more comfortable and precise experience. The paired Joy-Cons offer a middle-ground, providing more buttons than a single Joy-Con and a different grip than a full Pro Controller.
The choice of controller ultimately comes down to personal preference, comfort, and budget. The wonderful thing about Smash Ultimate is that it allows players to adapt to their needs and to play with who they have available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with Joy-Cons, providing additional valuable information for the readers:
1. Can you play Smash Ultimate with just one Joy-Con?
Yes, you can play Smash Ultimate with a single Joy-Con. Each player can use a single Joy-Con held horizontally. You press the SL and SR buttons to activate the single Joy-Con mode.
2. How many Joy-Cons do you need for 4 players in Smash Ultimate?
To play with 4 players, you can use 4 single Joy-Cons (two sets), 2 pairs of Joy-Cons, or any mix of controllers, like Pro Controllers and single Joy-Cons, up to 8 in total.
3. Can you play with two players using one set of Joy-Cons?
Yes, absolutely. Each player can use one Joy-Con from the same pair as a separate controller.
4. Are Joy-Cons comfortable for long Smash Ultimate sessions?
For casual play or short sessions, Joy-Cons are manageable. However, for longer, more intense sessions, the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or a GameCube controller might be more comfortable.
5. What are the downsides of using a single Joy-Con for Smash?
The primary drawbacks include the small button layout, the lack of a dedicated D-pad, and potentially less comfortable ergonomics, especially for longer sessions.
6. Can you use multiple pairs of Joy-Cons at the same time?
Yes, you can connect up to eight controllers, including multiple pairs of Joy-Cons, to a Nintendo Switch simultaneously.
7. Is the Pro Controller better for Smash Ultimate than Joy-Cons?
Many players find the Pro Controller to be superior due to its comfortable design, dedicated D-pad, and more precise analog sticks, which can provide an advantage in competitive play.
8. Can I use a GameCube controller with my Switch for Smash Ultimate?
Yes, you can use a GameCube controller, but you will need a GameCube controller adapter, which is sold separately.
9. How do I pair multiple controllers on the Nintendo Switch?
Go to the HOME Menu, select “Controllers,” then “Change Grip/Order”. Follow the on-screen instructions to pair each controller.
10. Do I need to buy more Joy-Cons to play multiplayer?
Not necessarily. The game is designed so you can use a single set of Joy-Cons for two players, but you will need more to have 3 or more people.
11. Can I play other games with a single Joy-Con?
Yes, many Nintendo Switch games support single Joy-Con gameplay, including titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Super Mario Party. Many indies also support this function.
12. How do I switch between using paired and single Joy-Cons in a game?
In the game you would have to go to the menu to switch between paired and single joycons, if you are playing in multiplayer. You can otherwise switch them by pressing the connect buttons on the side and pressing SL/SR as mentioned earlier.
13. How many controllers can I use at once in Smash Ultimate?
You can pair up to 8 controllers, including all kinds, so joycons, pro controllers, gamecube controllers etc. However, you will need to have a game that allows for more than 4 players to take advantage of this function.
14. Does the size of the Joy-Con affect performance?
The physical size of the Joy-Con can feel less comfortable, especially for players with larger hands, which can result in less comfortable gameplay or less responsiveness. However, the size doesn’t change the actual performance of the controller.
15. Are there any other third-party controllers for Smash Ultimate I can consider?
Yes, there are several third-party controllers available, such as the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller, which is a popular choice and has a design that emulates that of the pro controller with custom buttons. Always check the specifications and reviews before purchasing a third-party controller to ensure compatibility and quality.
By offering various controller options, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate ensures that players can enjoy the game in a way that best suits their preferences. The use of Joy-Cons, in both single and paired modes, provides accessibility for multiplayer and casual play, while the Pro Controller and GameCube options cater to players looking for more advanced control schemes.