How to Add 8 Controllers to Your Nintendo Switch: A Comprehensive Guide
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So, you’re looking to gather a crowd and unleash some multiplayer mayhem on your Nintendo Switch? Fantastic! The Switch is a social gaming powerhouse, but getting those extra controllers connected can sometimes feel like a mini-game in itself. Here’s a breakdown of how to get eight controllers linked up, so you can dive straight into the action.
The Nintendo Switch can simultaneously connect up to eight controllers. The number of players that can play at any one time is dependent on the title and game mode being used. You can connect Joy-Cons, Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers, or even compatible third-party controllers. The process generally involves pairing each controller individually through the Switch’s system settings. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Navigate to the Controller Settings: From the Switch’s HOME Menu, select “Controllers.”
- Enter Pairing Mode: Choose “Change Grip/Order.” This will bring up a screen with empty controller slots.
- Pairing via SYNC Button (Recommended):
- On your Joy-Con or Pro Controller, locate the small SYNC button. It’s usually on the top of the Joy-Con (between the SL and SR buttons) or on the back of the Pro Controller.
- Press and hold the SYNC button for a few seconds until the player indicator lights start flashing.
- The controller should automatically appear on the “Change Grip/Order” screen and pair. Once paired, the player LED(s) corresponding to the controller number will remain lit.
- Alternative Pairing Method: Some older information suggests that on the HOME Menu “Controllers” screen, (the screen before “Change Grip/Order”), you can press a button on each extra controller to pair it there. (You don’t have to use the L + R Buttons to pair. Any button will do.) However, the SYNC method is the recommended method.
- Repeat for All Controllers: Repeat steps 3 and 4 for each of the controllers you want to connect, up to a maximum of eight.
- Troubleshooting: If a controller doesn’t pair, try moving closer to the Switch console. Ensure the controller is charged. Power cycle the controller by holding down the power button until it turns off and then turning it back on. Restart your Switch.
- Game Limitations: Remember that even with eight controllers connected, not all games support eight players simultaneously. Check the game’s box or online description to see how many players it supports. For example, while Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to eight players via local wireless connection, it only supports up to four-player split screen on a single console.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Switch Controllers
How many controllers can I connect to a Switch simultaneously?
The Nintendo Switch can handle a maximum of eight wireless controllers at the same time.
Can I use different types of controllers simultaneously?
Yes, you can mix and match Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and compatible third-party wireless controllers.
Can I use wired controllers in addition to wireless ones?
Yes, you can use up to three wired controllers plugged into the USB ports on the dock, in addition to the wireless ones, provided the game supports that many controllers.
How do I disconnect a controller?
To disconnect a controller, go to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Disconnect Controllers. You can disconnect all controllers at once or disconnect them individually.
My controller isn’t pairing. What should I do?
Try the following:
- Ensure the controller is charged.
- Move closer to the Switch console.
- Restart the controller by holding down the SYNC button.
- Restart your Switch.
- Check for system updates.
How do I know if a controller is fully charged?
When a Joy-Con or Pro Controller is charging while connected to the Switch, the charging light will turn off when fully charged. You can also check the battery status in the Controllers section of the System Settings.
Can I use a single Joy-Con for multiplayer?
Yes, many games support using a single Joy-Con as a separate controller, allowing two people to play with the set that comes with the console.
How many Joy-Cons do I need for 4-player games?
You will need either four individual Joy-Cons, two sets of Joy-Cons, or a combination of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers totaling four controllers.
What games support 8-player local multiplayer?
Not many games support 8-player local play on a single Switch console. Some examples include:
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
- Luigi’s Mansion 3
- Runbow
- Some party games.
Can I use a controller from another console (like PlayStation or Xbox) on my Switch?
While not natively supported, you can use adapters like the 8BitDo Wireless Adapter to connect controllers from other consoles to your Switch.
How many players can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on one Switch?
Mario Kart 8 Deluxe supports up to four players in split-screen mode on a single Switch console. However, it supports up to eight players connecting multiple consoles together via a local wireless connection.
How many players can play Mario Party Superstars on one Switch?
Mario Party Superstars supports up to four players on a single Nintendo Switch system offline.
How many players can play Nintendo Switch Sports on one Switch?
Nintendo Switch Sports supports up to four players depending on the sport. Some sports like bowling, tennis and volleyball support up to four players.
Do I need two Joy-Cons per player for Nintendo Switch Sports?
For Soccer and Chambara, each player will ideally need a pair of Joy-Cons. For other sports, you can usually use a single Joy-Con per player.
Where can I learn more about game design and educational games?
The Games Learning Society is dedicated to the intersection of games and education. Visit their website at GamesLearningSociety.org to explore research, resources, and a community of educators and game designers.
Connecting eight controllers to your Nintendo Switch opens up a world of possibilities for fun and engaging multiplayer experiences. With these tips and FAQs, you’ll be ready to host epic gaming sessions with your friends and family!