How to Split a Nintendo Switch Controller for Two Players

▶

The Nintendo Switch is renowned for its versatility, and one of its standout features is the ability to easily share the fun with others. A key component of this is the Joy-Con controller, which can be quickly split to enable two-player gaming on a single console. So, how exactly do you split a Switch controller for two players? Here’s a breakdown:

To split a Nintendo Switch controller for two players, you will use the two Joy-Con controllers that come included with the console. These controllers can be used as individual, horizontally held controllers, allowing each player to have their own input device. Here are the steps:

1. Detach the Joy-Cons: If the Joy-Cons are attached to the Switch console, press the small release button on the back of each Joy-Con and slide them upwards to detach them.

2. Enable Horizontal Grip: Open the HOME menu on your Nintendo Switch. Navigate to the “Controllers” menu. Press both the SL and SR buttons on the side of each Joy-Con. This will register each Joy-Con as being held horizontally. This configuration allows the buttons and sticks to function as a more traditional controller setup for each player.

3. Player Assignment: Once recognized as horizontally held controllers, each Joy-Con will be assigned as a player controller in compatible games. Depending on the game, you may need to select the number of players before starting.

4. Attach Joy-Con Straps: Before starting a game, always attach the Joy-Con straps to the Joy-Cons for safety. The straps will give players a better grip while protecting the device and the players themselves.

This simple process allows you to instantly transform a single set of Joy-Con controllers into two individual controllers, perfect for local multiplayer gaming on your Nintendo Switch.

How Does This Benefit Players?

This unique design has revolutionized local multiplayer on consoles. Here’s why splitting the Joy-Cons is such a big deal:

• Instant Multiplayer: The convenience of being able to quickly convert a single controller into two allows for spontaneous multiplayer gaming. No need for extra purchases at the start!

• Cost-Effective: The fact that a single Joy-Con set provides controllers for two players straight out of the box means players save money on needing to buy additional controllers for local multiplayer right away.

• Variety of Games: Many popular Nintendo Switch games are designed to be played with two players utilizing single Joy-Con configurations, offering a wide range of co-operative and competitive gaming options.

• Ease of Use: The process is straightforward and user-friendly, allowing even first-time Switch users to easily set up two-player games.

Using the Joy-Cons in Other Configurations

While splitting the Joy-Cons is a common way to play with two people, it’s not the only way they can be used:

• Vertical Grip: When attached to the console, or when used with the Joy-Con Grip, the Joy-Cons function as a single traditional controller for one person.

• Individual Vertical Controllers: Each Joy-Con can also be used vertically, with the analog stick facing up, for single-player or single-controller multiplayer games. This can provide a different experience, often requiring players to get used to the single-stick and button layout.

Related FAQs

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to provide further insights and address common queries about using the Joy-Cons:

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you use one Nintendo Switch controller for two players?
   Yes, the Joy-Con controllers can be used individually as controllers for two players when held horizontally, although this is not ideal for games that require more inputs simultaneously, like 3D movement. Many games, however, fully support this option.

2. How do you make switch controllers player 1 and player 2?
   When you detach and then hold the Joy-Con controllers horizontally and press SL and SR, the game will automatically assign them as player 1 and player 2 based on the order in which they are registered. Some games allow you to swap player positions in menus for some more flexibility.

3. How many switch controllers do you need for 2 players?
   The Switch comes with the necessary two Joy-Con controllers. You do not need to purchase additional controllers for two-player play on the same console.

4. Do you need 2 Joy-Cons for 2 players?
   Yes, for many games that support two-player, you’ll need the two Joy-Con controllers, either used as a single controller for one player, or split horizontally as controllers for two players. Some games may have specific requirements that may suggest you use two pairs for more functionality.

5. Do you need 4 Joy-Cons for 2 players?
   No, for most games you do not need 4 Joy-Cons for just two players, although some may recommend it for specific games for a better experience. Games requiring a full range of motion, such as Nintendo Switch Sports, may have better options with full pairs rather than single controllers, but single controllers can still be utilized.

6. Do Joy-Cons count as two controllers?
   Yes, the right and left Joy-Cons each connect as individual controllers, so when used wirelessly they count as two separate controllers when they are detached from the system.

7. How much are separate Joy-Cons?
   Single, separate Joy-Cons are often sold for around $40-$50, while a new pair of Joy-Cons may sell for around $70-$80, depending on sales and locations.

8. Can you play Mario Party with 2 Joy-Cons?
   Yes, Mario Party can be played with 2 Joy-Cons (one for each player). The game will typically allow up to 4 players.

9. Can you play 2 player Mario Kart with one Switch?
   Yes, you can play Mario Kart in split-screen with two players on one Nintendo Switch. Each player needs their own controller, usually one of the split Joy-Cons.

10. Can you connect 2 Joy-Cons together?
    Yes, when attached to the console, or using the Joy-Con Grip, the two Joy-Cons function as one single traditional controller. Some third-party software or system modifications may also provide other functionality.

11. Can you play golf on Nintendo switch with two players using the split Joy-Con method?
    Yes, most golf games on the Nintendo Switch will allow two players using the split Joy-Con method. Some will also allow using motion controls.

12. Is Luigi’s Mansion 3 2 player?
    Yes, Luigi’s Mansion 3 has a 2-player co-op mode where the second player controls Gooigi.

13. Can 2 people play Super Mario 3D World on one console?
    Yes, Super Mario 3D World allows up to two players on a single Nintendo Switch system.

14. How do you swap between player 1 and player 2 in classic online Nintendo games? While playing with the Nintendo Switch Online Classic Games library, the player who initiated the game can access a Suspend Menu with ZL+ZR, and swap between Player 1 and Player 2 by selecting the corresponding option or by pressing Y.

15. Is it recommended to use one Joy-Con each for long-term 2 player experiences?
    While many games support two players using one Joy-Con each, it is not considered ideal for long-term or more involved games due to the smaller button set and grip. If you find yourself regularly playing two-player, a second set of Joy-Cons or a Pro Controller would greatly enhance your play experience.

Conclusion

The ability to split the Joy-Con controllers for two-player gaming is a core feature of the Nintendo Switch, providing accessibility and flexibility. By understanding how to detach, register, and utilize these versatile controllers, you can easily jump into local multiplayer fun with friends and family. This design decision has made the Switch a standout console for both solo and shared gaming experiences. So, pick up those Joy-Cons, split them, and get ready for some fun!