How Many Joy-Cons Do I Need? A Comprehensive Guide
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The question of how many Joy-Cons you need for your Nintendo Switch isn’t as simple as it might seem. It depends heavily on the games you want to play, the number of players involved, and your preferred playing style. The good news is, the Nintendo Switch is designed for flexibility, but this flexibility can sometimes lead to confusion. This article will break down the specifics, providing a clear answer and addressing common queries. In short, there isn’t a single right answer, but here’s the most comprehensive version:
The minimum you need is the pair of Joy-Cons that come with the console. With this base set, you can already play many single-player and two-player games. For more than two players locally, you will need additional Joy-Cons, often sold in pairs. However, the number of additional controllers you will need depends entirely on how the game you want to play is configured. Some games support using each half of a Joy-Con individually, while others require a full set per player. Understanding the different usage scenarios is key to knowing how many Joy-Cons to invest in.
Understanding Joy-Con Usage
Before diving into specific game requirements, it’s important to understand how the Joy-Cons can be used:
- Paired: This is the standard configuration, where the left and right Joy-Cons are attached to the console or used in a grip, acting as a traditional gamepad.
- Single Joy-Con: Each Joy-Con can be used as an independent controller, held horizontally. This is often for games supporting 2+ players locally on the same console.
- Joy-Con Pair vs Single Controller: It’s important to note that while some games support the single joycon setup, they may not offer the same play experience. They are often less comfortable for longer sessions and can lack some controls.
Multiplayer Scenarios and Joy-Con Needs
Knowing how your desired games work with the controllers is essential. Here’s a breakdown of some common multiplayer scenarios:
- Two Players: With just the included set of Joy-Cons, you can often play two-player games. Many games allow each player to use a single Joy-Con. However, some games will require two Joycons or a pro controller.
- Three Players: This requires at least one additional Joy-Con, enabling three separate controls.
- Four Players: This requires two additional Joy-Cons or a combination of a single Joy-Con for all four. Some games will also allow two Joy-Con pairs (4 total) for four players
- More than Four Players: You can pair up to eight controllers to a single Switch, but the games need to support this number and each player may or may not need a full set.
Specific Game Examples: Joy-Con Requirements
Here are the joy con requirements for some popular Nintendo Switch games:
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: One Joy-Con per player or Pro Controller. For local multiplayer, two players on the same console can use either individual Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers.
- Mario Party: One Joy-Con per player. Up to four players can play offline, each using a single Joy-Con.
- Nintendo Switch Sports: Can be played with paired Joy-Cons, single Joy-Cons, or Joy-Con + Leg Strap, depending on the sport. Pro Controllers are not compatible.
- It Takes Two: Requires either two Joy-Cons or one Pro Controller per player.
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: Each player can choose between a single Joy-Con, a pair of Joy-Cons, a Pro Controller, or GameCube controller (adapter required).
- Just Dance: Each player needs a single Joy-Con for move detection. They can use the Just Dance app on their phone if desired instead.
- Luigi’s Mansion 3: Each player can use a single Joy-Con, a pair of Joy-Cons, or a Pro Controller.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I play with just one Joy-Con?
Yes, you can use a single Joy-Con as a controller. To do so, press the sync button between the SL/SR buttons and then press the SL and SR buttons. However, this depends on the game supporting this configuration.
2. How many Joy-Cons do I need for 2 players?
You can play most two-player games with the pair of Joy-Cons that comes with the console. Each player can use one joycon or one player can use a set. However, for more comfort and full control schemes, a second set of joy cons (or an alternative controller) may be preferrable.
3. How many Joy-Cons are needed for 4 players?
You can play with 4 players by using a single Joy-Con each or two sets of joycons (4 total). The game needs to support this single Joy-Con setup if that’s the way you want to play.
4. Can you connect 4 Joy-Cons to one Switch?
Yes, you can connect up to eight controllers to a Nintendo Switch, including Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers. However, the number of controllers that can be used simultaneously is game-specific.
5. Do I need a second set of Joy-Cons for multiplayer?
Not necessarily for all multiplayer games, as many support the use of single Joy-Cons. However, for the most comfortable and complete experience, especially with 4 players, a second set is highly recommended.
6. Why are Joy-Cons so expensive?
Joy-Cons are expensive to manufacture due to the technology packed into a small space. They include motion sensors, HD rumble, and more.
7. Will new Joy-Cons eventually drift?
Joy-Con drift is a known issue and still can occur with newly purchased controllers. While Nintendo has made some improvements, they have not been completely eliminated.
8. How long do Joy-Cons last on a full charge?
Fully charged Joy-Cons can last approximately 20 hours. This can be shorter depending on the game and functions being used.
9. Do I need two Joy-Cons for every game?
No, you don’t need two Joy-Cons for every game. Many games can be played using a single Joy-Con, especially for local multiplayer on the same console.
10. How many Joy-Cons do I need for Mario Kart?
For two players on the same console, each needs one Joy-Con or a Pro Controller. For 4-player split-screen, you can use either 4 individual Joy-Cons (using each half) or two sets of joycons.
11. Can you play Mario Party with one Joy-Con per player?
Yes, each player needs a single Joy-Con to play Mario Party.
12. Do I need 2 Joy-Cons for Switch Sports?
The controller configuration varies by sport. You can use paired Joy-Cons, single Joy-Cons, or Joy-Con + Leg Strap, but Pro Controllers are not compatible.
13. How many Joy-Cons are needed for ‘It Takes Two’?
‘It Takes Two’ requires either two Joy-Cons or one Pro Controller per player.
14. Is a second Joy-Con grip needed?
A second grip is not strictly necessary, as you can play without it, but it provides a more traditional and comfortable gamepad experience when using Joy-Cons as a pair, especially in a 2 player configuration.
15. How many controllers can be connected to a Switch?
Regardless of the controller type, you can pair up to eight controllers with your Nintendo Switch simultaneously.
Conclusion
Determining the right number of Joy-Cons for your Nintendo Switch depends on your specific gaming needs and the games you play. For single players, the included set of joy cons is sufficient. If you frequently play with friends, having at least one extra set can be beneficial for maximizing your multiplayer fun. For families with a lot of players, consider having multiple sets for a more comfortable gaming experience. By understanding the different controller configurations and game requirements, you can confidently purchase the right number of Joy-Cons for your Nintendo Switch.