Do You Need Two Switches to Play Super Smash Bros.? The Ultimate Guide!
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Let’s cut right to the chase: No, you do not need two Nintendo Switch consoles to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. The beauty of this iconic brawler is its versatility. You can have up to 8 players battling on a single Nintendo Switch console, making it a fantastic game for gatherings and friendly competition. However, the answer gets a bit more nuanced when considering online play or different types of local multiplayer. Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding the Multiplayer Options in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers a plethora of ways to play with friends, both locally and online. Understanding these options is key to figuring out whether you need multiple consoles or not.
Local Multiplayer on a Single Switch
This is the simplest scenario. You and up to seven other friends can gather around one TV (or even just the Switch screen if you’re feeling cozy) and duke it out.
-
Controllers: Each player needs a controller. The Switch supports Joy-Cons (either individually or as a pair), Pro Controllers, and even GameCube controllers with an adapter.
-
Setup: From the main menu, select “Smash,” then “Smash” again. Player 1 can then adjust the battle options to their liking before everyone selects their character.
-
No extra hardware needed (besides controllers): As long as everyone has a controller, you’re good to go!
Local Multiplayer with Multiple Switches
This option allows you to play with friends who each have their own Switch console and copy of the game.
-
Local Wireless Play: This mode connects multiple Switch consoles wirelessly, allowing players to battle on their own screens.
-
Requirements: Each player needs their own Nintendo Switch console and a copy of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
-
Benefits: This eliminates screen crowding and allows for more private battles, as each player has their own screen to focus on.
Online Multiplayer
This is where the need for multiple consoles can get a little tricky, but ultimately, it depends on the situation.
-
Playing with Friends Online: The best way to play with friends online is through Battle Arenas.
-
Battle Arenas: One player creates an arena, and their friends can join. This requires each player to have their own Nintendo Switch console and a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
-
Sharing a Single Account on Multiple Consoles: You can download the game on multiple consoles, but you cannot access it simultaneously using the same Nintendo Account. This means each player needs their own account and possibly their own copy of the game.
Do You Need a Second Copy of the Game?
The answer here is a resounding it depends!
-
Single Switch, Local Multiplayer: No, you only need one copy of the game for up to 8 players on a single console.
-
Multiple Switches, Local Wireless Play: Yes, each player needs their own copy of the game.
-
Online Multiplayer: Each player needs their own copy of the game associated with their Nintendo Account to play online.
What About Nintendo Switch Lite?
The Nintendo Switch Lite is perfectly capable of playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.
-
Compatibility: It is compatible with Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and other popular games.
-
Limitations: The Switch Lite is a handheld-only console, meaning it cannot be docked and played on a TV.
-
Controller Requirements: Some games that heavily rely on Joy-Con features (like motion controls) might require separate Joy-Cons to be purchased separately for the Switch Lite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify your understanding of playing Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with multiple players.
1. Can you play Super Smash Bros on one Switch?
Yes! Up to 8 players can battle on a single Nintendo Switch console in local multiplayer. Just make sure everyone has a controller.
2. Do you need two Switches to play together locally?
No, you don’t need two Switches to play locally, as long as you are playing on one screen and the maximum of 8 players. You only need multiple Switches if you want to use Local Wireless Play, where each player has their own screen.
3. Do you need two copies of Smash Bros for two Switches?
Yes, you need two copies of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate if you want to play on two separate Nintendo Switch consoles simultaneously, whether it’s for local wireless play or online play.
4. Can you play Super Smash Bros without a Switch?
No, you need a Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. It is exclusive to the Nintendo Switch platform.
5. Can you play 2 players with one Joy-Con?
Yes, you can play with one Joy-Con per player, especially in games like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, where individual Joy-Cons can function as separate controllers.
6. Is Super Smash Bros worth it for single player?
Absolutely! Super Smash Bros. Ultimate offers a massive amount of content for solo players, including the World of Light adventure mode, Classic Mode, and various challenges. The spirit system adds a lot of replayability.
7. Can Smash Bros be played offline?
Yes! All Smash modes are available for local offline play, so you don’t need an internet connection if you’re playing with friends or by yourself locally.
8. How many can play Smash Bros on one Switch simultaneously?
Up to 8 players can battle simultaneously on a single Nintendo Switch console.
9. Can I play Smash Bros on Switch Lite with others?
Yes, you can play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on the Nintendo Switch Lite. However, for multiplayer, you’ll need to use Local Wireless Play, meaning each player needs their own Switch Lite and copy of the game.
10. How many controllers can you pair with one Switch for Smash?
You can pair up to eight controllers with a Nintendo Switch, allowing for a full 8-player Smash battle.
11. How do you set up 2 player on Nintendo Switch?
Go to the controller settings in the home menu of the Nintendo Switch. Here, you can assign the Joy-Cons as two separate controllers. Start your game and the game will now allow for two players to play.
12. Is Super Smash Bros only online?
No, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is not only online. It offers extensive local multiplayer options, as well as single-player modes.
13. What can you do in Super Smash Bros Ultimate without Nintendo Online?
Without Nintendo Switch Online, you can still play all local multiplayer modes, single-player modes, customize characters, download stage builder and even access and download updates, patches and DLC.
14. Does playing online Smash unlock characters?
Playing multiplayer matches, either locally or online, will trigger battles with unlockable characters after the match is over.
15. Can I play Super Smash Bros with strangers online?
Yes, with a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, you can jump into Quickplay mode and play matches against random players from around the world. You can also join or create Battle Arenas, although these are typically used for playing with friends or specific communities. Remember to check out resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for insightful perspectives on gaming and its impact on learning.
Final Thoughts
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate remains one of the most accessible and enjoyable multiplayer games available. Whether you’re battling it out on a single console with friends huddled around the TV or connecting multiple Switches for a larger tournament, the game offers a ton of flexibility. So, gather your friends, choose your fighters, and get ready to Smash! You don’t need two Switches to have a blast, but having more options never hurts!