How to Connect Two Pairs of Joy-Cons to Your Nintendo Switch

Connecting multiple Joy-Con controllers to your Nintendo Switch is straightforward, allowing you to enjoy multiplayer games with friends and family. Here’s a direct and comprehensive guide on how to connect two pairs of Joy-Cons:

First, ensure all of your Joy-Cons are charged. Then follow these simple steps:

1. Navigate to the Home Menu: On your Nintendo Switch, press the Home button (the circular button with a house icon) to access the main menu.
2. Access the Controllers Menu: Scroll through the menu options and select “Controllers.”
3. Select “Change Grip/Order”: In the Controllers menu, choose the option labeled “Change Grip/Order.” This will put your Nintendo Switch into pairing mode.
4. Pair Your First Pair of Joy-Cons: On each Joy-Con, locate the small, circular SYNC button. It’s typically found on the top of the rail, near the SL and SR buttons, or on the side if you are holding them horizontally. Press and hold the SYNC button on one of your Joy-Cons for at least one second. The player LEDs (small lights on the side) should begin to blink. The blinking LEDs indicate the controller is trying to pair. Repeat this step with the other Joy-Con of your first pair. Once the first pair is paired, the corresponding player LED(s) will remain lit, indicating successful connection.
5. Pair Your Second Pair of Joy-Cons: Repeat step 4 for your second pair of Joy-Cons. Press and hold the SYNC button on each one until they’re paired and the corresponding player LED(s) are lit.
6. Start Playing! Once all the controllers have been successfully paired, you can start your game and enjoy multiplayer action. The game will recognize the controllers and assign them to players.

This process connects two pairs of Joy-Cons to your console, which typically means you are now set up for four-player gameplay (assuming the game you want to play supports that number of players.)

Troubleshooting Joy-Con Connection Issues

Sometimes the connection process may not go smoothly. Here are a few tips to troubleshoot:

• Controller Charge: Ensure that your Joy-Cons are adequately charged. A low battery may prevent a successful connection.
• Resync Individually: If a Joy-Con isn’t connecting, detach it from the console, press the SYNC button, and then press any other button to restart it. Try pairing it again.
• Pair One at a Time: Sometimes, pairing one Joy-Con at a time is more reliable than trying to pair them all at once.
• Physical Obstructions: Ensure there is no physical obstruction between the Joy-Cons and the console.
• Software Updates: Make sure your console’s software and the Joy-Con firmware are up to date. You can update them in the System Settings menu on your Switch.
• Test Other Controllers: If possible, try testing a different pair of Joy-Cons with your console. This can help determine if the issue is with your controllers or the console itself.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding Joy-Cons and their connection to the Nintendo Switch:

How many controllers can I connect to a Nintendo Switch?

You can connect up to eight controllers to a Nintendo Switch console simultaneously. This includes various controllers such as Joy-Cons, Pro Controllers, and even third-party controllers. Keep in mind the number of players actually able to play depends on the game and game mode.

Can you play It Takes Two with just one Joy-Con per player?

No, each player in It Takes Two requires either a full set of Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller. You cannot play with just one Joy-Con per player.

How do I put two Joy-Cons together to form a single controller?

To form a single controller, you can attach the Joy-Cons to the Joy-Con Grip. Simply slide each Joy-Con onto the rails on the sides of the grip until you hear a click. Ensure that the Nintendo Switch logo on the grip is facing you.

Why won’t my Switch controllers connect separately?

If your Joy-Cons aren’t connecting separately, try resetting them by pressing the SYNC button, then pressing any other button. Detach the Joy-Cons from the Switch, reset them, and then try to pair them again following the instructions above.

Can I use two Joy-Cons individually for two players on a Switch?

Yes, you can use a pair of Joy-Cons individually for two players. Each player can hold one Joy-Con horizontally and use the SL and SR buttons on the top.

Do you need two sets of Joy-Cons for the Switch?

No, you do not need two sets of Joy-Cons to play two-player games on your Switch out of the box. The console comes with one set which can be used by two people if the game allows. You only need more sets if you want more players than two, or if you have a set that’s broken.

Can two players play with one Switch controller?

Yes, some games allow two players to play using the included set of Joy-Cons, with each player using a single Joy-Con. It’s important to check the games’ controller compatibility as not every game offers this option.

Can two players play Mario Kart 8 on one Switch?

Yes, up to four players can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on a single Nintendo Switch console. You can use individual Joy-Cons, pairs of Joy-Cons, or Pro Controllers.

Can you use 1 Joy-Con for Mario Kart?

Yes, you can use one Joy-Con for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. One player can play with a Joy-Con in a horizontal grip.

Can you play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with two Joy-Cons?

Yes, in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, each player can choose between a single Joy-Con, a pair of Joy-Cons, a Pro Controller, or a GameCube controller.

How many Joy-Cons do you need for Mario Party?

Super Mario Party typically requires a full set of Joy-Cons for each player. The game also comes bundled with a special pair of Joy-Cons for some versions.

How do I pair separate Joy-Cons after disconnecting them?

To pair separate Joy-Cons, go to the “Controllers” menu on the Home Menu and select “Change Grip/Order.” Press and hold the SYNC button on the controller you wish to pair. Once paired, the player LED will stay lit.

What should I do if my Joy-Cons won’t connect?

If your Joy-Cons won’t connect, ensure they are charged and try detaching and reattaching them to the console several times. You can also reset them by pressing the SYNC button and then any other button. If possible, test with other Joy-Cons to isolate the problem.

Are Joy-Cons legal in Smash tournaments?

Yes, district-issued Pro Controllers and Joy-Cons are generally legal in Super Smash Bros. tournaments. Players can adjust controls before a match but must revert to default settings afterward.

Can you connect two Nintendo Switches for multiplayer gaming?

Yes, you can connect up to eight Nintendo Switch consoles together via local wireless for multiplayer in compatible games. You can also play online with other players far away.

Conclusion

Connecting two pairs of Joy-Cons to your Nintendo Switch is a simple process that opens up a world of multiplayer gaming possibilities. By following these steps and understanding the FAQs provided, you can easily enjoy all of your favorite games with friends and family on your Nintendo Switch. Don’t forget to keep your controllers charged, and always check the compatibility of the controllers with the specific game you’re playing.