Does Nintendo Sports Have Hockey? A Comprehensive Look
The short answer is: No, Nintendo Switch Sports does not currently include hockey. While the popular sports collection boasts a variety of activities designed to get players moving, hockey is conspicuously absent from its roster. This absence is notable, especially considering the history of sports games on Nintendo platforms and the popularity of hockey worldwide. However, this doesn’t mean the door is completely closed for future updates. Let’s dive deeper into what sports are included in Nintendo Switch Sports, what’s available on the Switch generally, and answer your burning questions about the possibility of hockey making its debut.
Nintendo Switch Sports: What Is Included?
Nintendo Switch Sports brings back the family-friendly fun of the Wii Sports era, offering a collection of engaging motion-controlled games. Currently, the game includes seven sports:
- Soccer: Engage in team-based matches, using your Joy-Con controllers to kick and head the ball.
- Volleyball: Bump, set, and spike your way to victory in this cooperative and competitive sport.
- Bowling: A classic that returns with motion controls allowing for spin and power.
- Tennis: Another returning favorite, offering a blend of singles and doubles action.
- Badminton: A fast-paced and dynamic sport that requires precision and quick reflexes.
- Chambara (Swordplay): Take up a virtual sword in thrilling duels against opponents.
- Golf: Added later as free DLC, bringing a more strategic sport to the mix.
The emphasis of Nintendo Switch Sports is on intuitive motion controls, making it accessible to players of all skill levels. This focus on physical activity and fun has contributed to the game’s success.
The Absence of Hockey and Fan Expectations
The absence of hockey from the initial lineup, and subsequent DLC releases, has left some fans wondering why. While the reasons for this decision are not explicitly stated by Nintendo, it’s possible that development resources were allocated to the current sports, and that certain sports, like golf, were prioritised. Given the wide appeal of hockey, its absence does create a notable gap in Nintendo’s sports offerings.
The fact that the original Wii Sports and Wii Sports Resort were huge successes in part due to the simple gameplay and easy learning curve might be another reason as to why Nintendo went in the direction they did. The seven sports currently included in Nintendo Switch Sports fit this formula perfectly.
Hockey on Nintendo Switch: What Is Available?
While you won’t find hockey within the official confines of Nintendo Switch Sports, that doesn’t mean there isn’t any hockey to be found on the Nintendo Switch console. For those seeking a hockey fix, there are a few alternative options:
- EA SPORTS NHL Series: While the latest installment, NHL 24, is not available on the Nintendo Switch, previous NHL titles have appeared on older Nintendo consoles. Although this is not the case with this generation, some hope remains for future titles.
- Indie Hockey Games: Several indie developers have created hockey games for the Nintendo Switch. These often offer unique gameplay and fun, offering an alternative to the absence of traditional hockey sims.
It’s worth noting that the experience with these alternative hockey games may differ significantly from what you’d expect from an NHL title, but they can provide a serviceable hockey experience.
The Potential for Future Hockey in Switch Sports
Despite the current absence of hockey, there’s always the possibility that it could be added in a future update or as downloadable content (DLC). Nintendo has continued to support Switch Sports with new content, most notably, golf. This demonstrates their willingness to expand the game’s offerings.
Fan demand plays a significant role in determining what Nintendo adds to their games. If there’s enough clamor for hockey, it’s possible that the company will listen and add it to Nintendo Switch Sports in the future. However, the development timeline for additional sports must also be considered, which means it may be a considerable wait.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Nintendo Sports and its offerings, including queries about the possibility of hockey:
1. Does Nintendo Switch Sports include every sport from Wii Sports?
No, Nintendo Switch Sports does not include all of the sports from Wii Sports. Notably, baseball and boxing are missing. While the game has brought back favorites like tennis and bowling, it has also introduced new ones, such as badminton and chambara.
2. How many sports are available in Nintendo Switch Sports?
Currently, there are seven sports in Nintendo Switch Sports: Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton, Chambara (Swordplay), and Golf.
3. Are more sports planned for Nintendo Switch Sports?
Yes, while the initial release featured six sports, Golf was later added as free DLC. While no other sports have been officially announced, there is always the possibility for future updates.
4. Can I play online with friends in Nintendo Switch Sports?
Yes, Nintendo Switch Sports features both local and online multiplayer options. You can play with friends and family in the same room or compete against players from around the world. The game also includes a ranked mode for a more competitive experience.
5. How do I unlock new items in Nintendo Switch Sports?
New Titles and other in-game items are unlocked through Collection rewards. These collections are obtained by earning points through online play.
6. Is there a boxing game in Nintendo Switch Sports?
No, boxing is not included in Nintendo Switch Sports. While this sport was present in the original Wii Sports, it has not yet made an appearance in this current release.
7. What are the best multiplayer sports games on Nintendo Switch?
Besides Nintendo Switch Sports, other great multiplayer sports games on the Nintendo Switch include: Rocket League, Mario Tennis Aces, Captain Tsubasa: Rise Of New Champions, Mario Golf: Super Rush, Mario Strikers: Battle League, and Mario & Sonic At The Olympic Games Tokyo 2020.
8. Is Nintendo Switch Sports worth purchasing?
Many reviews have praised Nintendo Switch Sports for successfully refreshing the charm of Wii Sports for a new generation. It’s considered a fun and engaging game for the whole family, especially if you enjoy motion-based games.
9. Is NHL 24 available on the Nintendo Switch?
No, NHL 24 is not available on the Nintendo Switch. It is available on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series S/X.
10. Can I play hockey on the Nintendo Switch at all?
While NHL 24 is not on Nintendo Switch, some indie games offer a hockey experience. Unfortunately, there is no official, traditional NHL gaming experience currently available on the Switch.
11. How big is the Nintendo Switch Sports game file?
The initial file size for Nintendo Switch Sports is relatively small, at approximately 1.4 GB. However, it should be noted that this will increase as new content is added through DLC and updates.
12. Are there leaks about more sports coming to Switch Sports?
While there have been unconfirmed leaks suggesting that basketball and dodgeball could be added, Nintendo has not officially announced any further sports beyond the current seven.
13. Is Nintendo Switch Sports ranked?
Yes, Nintendo Switch Sports has a ranked online mode called the “Pro League” which matches you against other players of a similar skill level.
14. How well has Nintendo Switch Sports sold?
Nintendo Switch Sports has been a commercially successful game, selling over 9.6 million copies as of March 31, 2023, making it one of the best-selling titles on the console.
15. When did Nintendo Switch Sports come out?
Nintendo Switch Sports was released on April 29, 2022.
Conclusion
While hockey is not currently a part of Nintendo Switch Sports, the game offers a variety of other engaging sports. The possibility of future updates and fan demand for the sport could change this in the future. For now, hockey fans will need to explore alternative options on the Nintendo Switch and hope that Nintendo adds it to the game eventually. Keep an eye on official announcements and updates for any new additions.