Do You Need 2 Switches for Mario Party? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, you don’t always need two Nintendo Switch consoles to enjoy the chaotic fun of Mario Party. However, the number of consoles required depends on how you want to play and with whom. Let’s dive into the details to clarify all the scenarios!
Unpacking the Mario Party Multiplayer Options
The beauty of the Mario Party series on the Nintendo Switch lies in its flexibility. You can enjoy it solo, with friends gathered around a single screen, or connected with other Switch consoles for a more expansive multiplayer experience. Knowing the specific requirements for each mode is key to planning your next Mario Party night.
Single-Screen Shenanigans: One Switch is Enough!
The most straightforward way to play Mario Party is with multiple players on a single Nintendo Switch. Up to four players can participate using Joy-Con controllers or Pro Controllers. This classic couch co-op experience requires only one console and the necessary number of controllers. Games like Mario Party Superstars and Super Mario Party are designed with this local multiplayer in mind.
Local Wireless Play: Bridging the Gap with Multiple Switches
For a more immersive experience, especially with titles like Mario Party Superstars, you can connect multiple Nintendo Switch consoles via local wireless play. Each player (or team, depending on the game mode) can use their own screen, reducing potential screen-peeking and increasing the sense of individual competition. Here’s the catch: each Nintendo Switch used in local wireless play requires its own copy of the game.
Online Multiplayer: Connecting with the World
If your friends and family are scattered across the globe, online multiplayer is your best bet. To play Mario Party online, each player needs a Nintendo Switch Online membership and a copy of the game on their console. In some online modes, like Global Games in Mario Party Superstars, only one player per Switch can participate. In others, like playing online with friends, the total amount of people varies.
Game Sharing: A Tricky Proposition
Nintendo’s account system allows for game sharing between two Switch consoles, but this comes with caveats. One console must be designated as the “primary” console, while the other is considered “non-primary.” While both consoles can download and play the same digital games, only the primary console can play games offline using the account that purchased the game. The non-primary console requires a constant internet connection to verify the game license. More concerning, both consoles can’t play the same game simultaneously. If one console is playing Mario Kart, the other must be playing a different game or not playing at all.
Controllers: Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and What You Need to Know
The type of controllers you’ll need depends on the Mario Party game you’re playing. Super Mario Party, for example, requires individual Joy-Cons for its motion-controlled mini-games. You can’t use Pro Controllers or play in handheld mode with a Nintendo Switch Lite (unless you pair Joy-Cons). Mario Party Superstars offers more flexibility, allowing you to use Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, or play in handheld mode.
Before your party, make sure you have enough controllers and that they are charged! There’s nothing worse than a controller dying mid-game!
Choosing the Right Setup for Your Mario Party Experience
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not you need two (or more) Switch consoles for Mario Party depends on your preferred playstyle and the number of players.
- One Switch, Multiple Players: Ideal for classic couch co-op, budget-friendly, and simple setup.
- Multiple Switches, Local Wireless: Best for immersive gameplay, larger groups, and minimizing screen-peeking.
- Online Multiplayer: Necessary for playing with friends and family who are far away, requiring Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions.
- Game Sharing: Can work if you only need one person to play at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the intricacies of playing Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch:
1. Do I need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to play Mario Party?
Yes, you need a Nintendo Switch Online membership to play Mario Party online with friends or random players. This subscription service is required to access the online features of most Nintendo Switch games.
2. Can I play Mario Party Superstars with a single Joy-Con?
Yes, Mario Party Superstars supports playing with a single Joy-Con, making it easy for multiple players to join in the fun with minimal hardware requirements.
3. Does everyone need a copy of Mario Party Superstars to play together online?
Yes, each player needs a copy of Mario Party Superstars and a Nintendo Switch Online membership to play online.
4. Can I use a Pro Controller to play Super Mario Party?
No, Super Mario Party requires the use of individual Joy-Cons due to its reliance on motion controls in many of its mini-games. Pro Controllers are not compatible with these mini-games.
5. What is the difference between Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars?
Super Mario Party features new boards and mechanics, while Mario Party Superstars is a collection of remade boards and minigames from previous Mario Party titles. Super Mario Party requires individual Joy-Cons, while Mario Party Superstars supports a wider range of controllers.
6. Can I play Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch Lite?
You can play Mario Party Superstars on the Nintendo Switch Lite. Super Mario Party can only be played on the Nintendo Switch Lite if paired with Joy-Cons.
7. How many players can play Mario Party on one Switch console?
Up to four players can play Mario Party on a single Nintendo Switch console in local multiplayer.
8. Can I play Mario Party with friends who are far away?
Yes, you can play Mario Party with friends who are far away using the online multiplayer mode. Each player needs a Nintendo Switch Online membership and a copy of the game.
9. Do both switches need the same game to play together?
For local wireless play, each Nintendo Switch console requires its own copy of the game.
10. Can I share digital games between two Nintendo Switch consoles?
Yes, you can share digital games between two Nintendo Switch consoles, but there are limitations. Only one console can be designated as the primary console, and the non-primary console requires an internet connection to play the shared games. Additionally, both consoles cannot play the same game simultaneously.
11. How do I connect two Nintendo Switch consoles for local wireless play?
To connect two Nintendo Switch consoles for local wireless play, select the local wireless option in the game’s multiplayer menu. Make sure both consoles are close to each other and connected to the same local network (if required by the game).
12. Which Mario Party game is the best?
The “best” Mario Party game is subjective and depends on personal preference. Mario Party Superstars is often praised for its nostalgia and classic gameplay, while Super Mario Party offers new and unique mini-games.
13. What is game sharing on Nintendo Switch?
Gamesharing on Nintendo Switch involves signing out of your account on one console and signing into your account on another. All you need is a user account, an internet connection, and a digital game you want to share. Remember the limitations regarding primary and non-primary consoles.
14. How many people can play Mario Party Switch?
Up to 4 players can play on a single Nintendo Switch system offline. In Local Play and Online Play with Friends, up to 3 players can play on each system. In a Global Game (Online Play with random players around the world), only 1 player can play on each system.
15. How can I learn more about the educational aspects of games?
Organizations like the Games Learning Society are dedicated to understanding how games can be used for educational purposes. You can visit GamesLearningSociety.org to explore research, articles, and resources related to game-based learning.
Final Thoughts: Plan Your Party!
Whether you’re gathering around a single screen or connecting multiple consoles, Mario Party on the Nintendo Switch offers a variety of ways to enjoy this classic party game. Understanding the requirements for each mode ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone involved. Now, go forth and party! Just remember to choose your friends wisely, because friendships will be tested.