Can You Use One Joy-Con for Mario Party Superstars? The Definitive Guide
Yes, you can use a single Joy-Con for Mario Party Superstars. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and considerations to ensure the best gameplay experience. This article provides a comprehensive overview of using Joy-Cons in Mario Party Superstars, addressing common questions and concerns.
Understanding Joy-Con Compatibility in Mario Party Superstars
Mario Party Superstars is designed to be a social, multiplayer experience. As such, Nintendo implemented compatibility with various controller types, including the single Joy-Con configuration. This means that each player can use one Joy-Con held horizontally as a controller. This is particularly convenient as the Nintendo Switch ships with two Joy-Cons, allowing for instant two-player action right out of the box.
However, the Joy-Con offers a simplified control scheme in this configuration. You’ll primarily use the D-pad for movement, the SL and SR buttons as action buttons, and the ‘+’ or ‘-‘ button for menu navigation. Certain minigames and board events might feel slightly different due to the limited input options compared to using a Pro Controller or two Joy-Cons.
Setting Up a Single Joy-Con
To use a single Joy-Con, follow these steps:
- Ensure the Joy-Cons are detached from the Switch console.
- Press and hold the SYNC button on the side of the Joy-Con until the player indicator lights start flashing.
- Navigate to the “Controllers” settings on your Nintendo Switch home screen.
- Select “Change Grip/Order.”
- Press either the SL and SR buttons simultaneously on the Joy-Con you want to use. This signifies you are using the Joy-Con in horizontal mode.
- The player indicator light will stop flashing and remain lit, indicating the Joy-Con is connected and assigned to a player.
Repeat this process for each player using a single Joy-Con. The first Joy-Con synced will be player 1, the second player 2, and so on.
Gameplay Considerations with a Single Joy-Con
While using a single Joy-Con is feasible, several aspects of the gameplay experience are worth noting:
- Reduced Precision: Some minigames that require precise movements or quick reactions might be more challenging with the D-pad compared to the analog stick on a Pro Controller or dual Joy-Cons.
- Comfort: Holding a single Joy-Con horizontally for extended periods can be less comfortable than using a more ergonomic controller, particularly for players with larger hands.
- Limited Functionality: While the core gameplay is preserved, some controller features like motion controls or rumble feedback might be limited or unavailable in certain minigames.
Despite these considerations, using a single Joy-Con is a perfectly viable option for enjoying Mario Party Superstars, especially for casual play or when you need a quick and easy setup for multiplayer sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about using Joy-Cons with Mario Party Superstars, providing more detail and addressing specific scenarios.
1. Can I use two single Joy-Cons to play as one player?
No, Mario Party Superstars does not support using two individual Joy-Cons as a single controller for one player. You can only use a single Joy-Con per player or a pair of Joy-Cons combined.
2. Does using a single Joy-Con affect my chances of winning?
Potentially, yes. In minigames requiring precise analog stick control, using a D-pad might put you at a slight disadvantage. However, skill and strategy are still the most significant factors in determining the winner.
3. Is it possible to use a single Joy-Con and a Pro Controller simultaneously?
Yes, you can mix and match controller types. One player can use a single Joy-Con, while another uses a Pro Controller. The Switch supports various controller configurations.
4. Are all minigames playable with a single Joy-Con?
Yes, all minigames are technically playable with a single Joy-Con. However, some might be more difficult or less intuitive due to the limited control options. Nintendo designed the game to accommodate the single Joy-Con setup.
5. How many players can play using only Joy-Cons?
Up to four players can play using individual Joy-Cons. Since the Switch comes with two Joy-Cons, you can immediately accommodate two players without needing additional controllers.
6. Does the color of the Joy-Con matter?
No, the color of the Joy-Con does not impact its functionality. Any Joy-Con will work as a controller, regardless of its color.
7. How do I charge my Joy-Cons when using them separately?
You can charge Joy-Cons by attaching them to the Nintendo Switch console when docked or by using a Joy-Con charging dock sold separately.
8. Can I use third-party Joy-Cons with Mario Party Superstars?
Yes, you can typically use third-party Joy-Cons, provided they are compatible with the Nintendo Switch and support the necessary button inputs. However, compatibility and functionality may vary.
9. What if my Joy-Con has stick drift?
Stick drift can significantly impact gameplay, especially in minigames requiring precise control. Consider using a different controller or having your Joy-Con repaired by Nintendo.
10. Can I remap the buttons on a single Joy-Con?
Yes, Nintendo allows button remapping on Joy-Cons through the system settings. This can be helpful to customize the control scheme to your preference.
11. Does using a single Joy-Con disable any features?
Some features requiring specific controller inputs might be limited. For example, motion controls might not be available in all minigames when using a single Joy-Con. Rumble features may also be simplified.
12. What is the ideal controller for Mario Party Superstars?
The ideal controller is largely a matter of personal preference. A Pro Controller or dual Joy-Cons typically offer a more comfortable and precise experience, but single Joy-Cons are a convenient option for casual play.
13. Does playing with a single Joy-Con affect the game’s difficulty?
The game’s difficulty remains the same regardless of the controller used. However, the perceived difficulty of certain minigames might increase due to the limitations of the D-pad versus an analog stick.
14. Can I use a single Joy-Con wirelessly?
Yes, Joy-Cons connect wirelessly to the Nintendo Switch. Ensure your Joy-Cons are properly synced to the console.
15. What do I do if my Joy-Con is not connecting?
Ensure the Joy-Con is charged and that you are following the correct syncing procedure. Restarting the Nintendo Switch and re-syncing the Joy-Con often resolves connectivity issues. Also, ensure that there aren’t any sources of wireless interference.
In conclusion, while using a single Joy-Con in Mario Party Superstars presents certain limitations, it is a perfectly viable and convenient option for enjoying the game. Understanding the nuances of the control scheme and being aware of potential challenges will ensure a fun and engaging experience for all players.