Unleash the Chaos: Your Guide to 8-Player Nintendo Switch Gaming

So, you’re ready to transform your living room into a digital battleground with eight players on your Nintendo Switch? Excellent! Getting that many friends (or family) involved in a single game session requires a bit of planning, but the resulting fun is well worth the effort.

The core principle is this: the Nintendo Switch supports up to eight connected controllers. This allows you to play various games with a large group, either on a single console or across multiple consoles connected wirelessly or online. The specifics of setting up an 8-player game depend entirely on the game itself, but generally, you’ll need to ensure you have enough controllers, the game supports the desired number of players, and that your consoles are properly connected (if required).

Let’s break down the key aspects:

• Controller Management: This is the most important aspect. The Switch can connect up to eight controllers simultaneously. This can be a mix of Joy-Cons (either individually or paired), Pro Controllers, or even third-party controllers. The system also supports the ability to use a single Joy-Con as two separate controllers. This is usually ideal for more basic games, and can easily expand your possibilities for number of players.
• Game Compatibility: Not all Switch games support eight players on a single console. Carefully check the game’s specifications to confirm the maximum number of players it supports for local play. Some games may only support eight players through online play or local wireless connections between multiple consoles.
• Multi-Console Setup (Local Wireless): For games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe or Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, you can connect multiple Switch consoles wirelessly. Each console will need its own copy of the game, and players can then join a local wireless room to play together.
• Online Play: Some games offer eight-player support through online multiplayer. This requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription for each player and a stable internet connection. Players can join online lobbies and compete or cooperate with others around the world.

Understanding Controller Configurations:

The Nintendo Switch offers flexible controller options.

• Joy-Cons: A single pair of Joy-Cons can be used as one controller or split into two individual controllers. This is useful for expanding player count.
• Pro Controllers: These provide a more traditional controller experience and are ideal for players who prefer a more ergonomic grip.
• Third-Party Controllers: Many third-party controllers are compatible with the Switch. Ensure they are officially licensed or known to work reliably.

Step-by-Step Example: 8-Player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (Local Wireless)

1. Preparation: You’ll need four Nintendo Switch consoles, each with a copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Ensure each console has at least one set of Joy-Cons or Pro Controller connected. The great thing about this setup is that 2 players per switch is enough to have the full 8-player experience!
2. Initial Setup: On each Switch, navigate to the main menu and select “Wireless Play.”
3. Host Setup: On one Switch, choose to “Create Room.” This console will be the host. The host should select race settings, such as CC, teams, and items.
4. Joining the Room: On the other three Switches, select “Join Room” and choose the room created by the host.
5. Player Selection: Each player selects their character and kart.
6. Start the Race: Once all players are ready, the host starts the race.

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Controller Synchronization: Ensure all controllers are properly synced to the Switch. Go to “Controllers” in the System Settings menu to manage connected controllers.
• Wireless Interference: Minimize potential wireless interference by keeping the consoles close together and away from other electronic devices.
• Game Updates: Make sure all games are updated to the latest version. Updates often include bug fixes and performance improvements.
• Nintendo Switch Online: If playing online, verify that all players have an active Nintendo Switch Online subscription.

Ultimately, playing with eight players on the Nintendo Switch is a fantastic way to experience gaming with a large group of friends or family. By understanding the controller options, game compatibility, and connection methods, you can create unforgettable gaming memories. Just remember to confirm the best controller options, the game you’re playing, and you’re well on your way to a memorable experience!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How many controllers can I connect to a single Nintendo Switch?

You can connect up to eight controllers to a single Nintendo Switch console simultaneously.

Can you play 8 players on Mario Party Switch?

While the standard Mario Party modes on Switch (including Super Mario Party and Mario Party Superstars) only support up to four players, some mini-games within these titles or other games in the series, like Mario Party 7 (on older consoles), have experimented with eight-player modes. Super Mario Party also offers Toad’s Rec Room, which allows for multi-screen gameplay with two Switch systems.

What games on Nintendo Switch support 8 players?

Several Nintendo Switch games support eight players, including:

• Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (local wireless with multiple consoles)
• Super Smash Bros. Ultimate (local on one console)
• Splatoon 3 (certain modes)
• Minecraft (local or online)
• Duke Nukem 3D: 20th Anniversary
• Super Bomberman R
• Farm Together
• Luigi’s Mansion 3 (ScreamPark mode)

Do all 8 players need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription?

For online multiplayer, each player typically needs a Nintendo Switch Online subscription. However, for local wireless play using multiple consoles, only the host may need the subscription, depending on the specific game’s implementation.

Can I use a mix of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers for 8-player games?

Yes, you can use a mix of Joy-Cons (either individually or paired) and Pro Controllers as long as the total number of connected controllers doesn’t exceed eight.

How do I connect multiple Nintendo Switch consoles for local wireless play?

Navigate to the wireless play option within the game (e.g., Mario Kart 8 Deluxe). One console will create a room, and the others will join it.

Can you play 8-player Super Smash Bros. Ultimate online?

Yes, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate supports 8-player battles locally on one console. Online play is more limited, but the game provides various online modes.

Is there a way to play 8-player games without owning multiple controllers?

If you are playing a simple game, you can use one Joy-Con for each player to play 8-player games, if it supports it.

How do I update my Nintendo Switch games?

Games typically update automatically when the console is connected to the internet. You can also manually check for updates by pressing the “+” button on the game’s icon on the home screen and selecting “Software Update.”

Does Luigi’s Mansion 3 support 8 players throughout the entire game?

No, Luigi’s Mansion 3 supports up to eight players only in the ScreamPark mode. The main story mode is limited to single-player or two-player co-op.

How many Nintendo Switch consoles do I need for 8-player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?

You need four Nintendo Switch consoles, with each supporting two players for an eight-player Mario Kart 8 Deluxe local wireless race. Each console will need its own copy of the game.

What is the best controller configuration for 8-player Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?

The best configuration depends on player preference. A mix of Pro Controllers and paired Joy-Cons often works well. Ensure everyone is comfortable with their chosen controller type.

Can I gameshare on a nintendo switch for 8 players?

No. Only digital games can be shared. Only one person can play a shared game at a time, regardless of which user account is in use.

How can children learn the values and life skills while playing games?

Video games can provide value to youth, but they need to learn how to deal with the challenges within the game. The Games Learning Society, or GamesLearningSociety.org, is a great resource for learning more about the educational value of video games.

Can you play mario party 8 alone?

In Mario Party 8, whether playing solo or with friends, there’s a mode for every party.