How to Play Multiplayer Mario Kart on Nintendo Switch Lite
The Nintendo Switch Lite, while wonderfully portable, presents a unique challenge for multiplayer gaming compared to its larger sibling. But don’t despair! Playing multiplayer Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on your Switch Lite is entirely possible, though it requires understanding the limitations and available options. You can engage in multiplayer mayhem through local wireless play with other Switch consoles or dive into online races with players around the globe. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:
- Local Wireless Play: This involves connecting multiple Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite consoles together. Each player needs their own copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. One player hosts a lobby, and the others join.
- Online Play: This uses your internet connection to race against players worldwide. A Nintendo Switch Online subscription is required for this option.
Understanding Multiplayer Options on Switch Lite
The key difference with the Switch Lite is its lack of detachable Joy-Cons. On a regular Switch, you can simply detach the Joy-Cons and instantly have two controllers for local split-screen play. The Switch Lite, however, is a single-unit device. This means you cannot play split-screen multiplayer on a single Switch Lite.
Therefore, to play multiplayer Mario Kart, you must utilize either local wireless or online connections. Let’s explore both in detail.
Local Wireless Multiplayer: Racing with Friends Nearby
This is perhaps the most common and fun way to enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with friends on the Switch Lite. Here’s what you need:
- Each player needs their own Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch Lite console. You can mix and match – some players can use a standard Switch, and others a Switch Lite.
- Each player needs their own copy of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
- All consoles need to be within reasonable proximity. (Typically within 30 feet for optimal connection).
Setting Up a Local Wireless Game
- One Player Creates a Room: On one of the consoles, launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. On the main menu, select “Wireless Play.” Then, choose “Create Room.”
- Other Players Join the Room: On the other consoles, launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe. Select “Wireless Play.” Your console will automatically search for nearby rooms. Select the room created in the previous step.
- Customize the Race: The player who created the room can now customize the race settings. This includes selecting the number of races, the speed of the karts, whether to include CPU racers, and other rules.
- Start the Race: Once everyone is ready, the host player can start the race.
Online Multiplayer: Competing Globally
If your friends aren’t physically present, or you simply want to test your skills against the world, online multiplayer is the way to go. This requires a Nintendo Switch Online subscription.
Requirements for Online Play
- Nintendo Switch Online Subscription: This is a paid service required to access online features for most Nintendo Switch games.
- Internet Connection: A stable and reliable internet connection is essential for smooth online gameplay.
- Nintendo Account: You need a Nintendo Account linked to your Switch profile.
Joining an Online Race
- Launch Mario Kart 8 Deluxe: From the Nintendo Switch home screen, launch the game.
- Select “Online Play”: On the main menu, select “Online Play.”
- Choose Your Mode: You can choose between “Worldwide,” “Regional,” or “Friends.”
- Worldwide: Races against players from all over the world.
- Regional: Races against players in your general geographical region.
- Friends: Races against players on your Nintendo Switch friend list.
- Customize Your Kart and Driver: Before joining a race, you can customize your kart, tires, and glider.
- Join the Race: The game will automatically match you with other players who are ready to race.
Tips for a Smooth Multiplayer Experience
- Ensure Strong Wi-Fi: For online play, a strong and stable Wi-Fi connection is crucial. Consider moving closer to your router or using a wired Ethernet connection with a USB-C adapter.
- Charge Your Consoles: Nothing is worse than your console dying mid-race. Ensure all consoles are fully charged before starting a multiplayer session.
- Communicate with Your Friends: Whether you’re playing locally or online, communication is key. Use voice chat through the Nintendo Switch Online app (for online play) or simply talk to your friends if you’re in the same room.
- Consider a Comfortable Grip: The Switch Lite can sometimes be uncomfortable to hold for extended periods. Consider purchasing a grip accessory for more comfortable gameplay.
- Update Your Game: Make sure your game is updated to the latest version. This can often improve performance and stability.
Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack
In addition to the standard Nintendo Switch Online membership, there’s also the Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack. This premium tier includes everything in the base membership, plus access to a library of Nintendo 64 and Sega Genesis games, as well as DLC for select games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe (the Booster Course Pass). If you plan on playing a lot of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, the Booster Course Pass can add a ton of new content to your game. This is not required to play multiplayer.
Enjoy the Ride!
While the Switch Lite presents a slightly different multiplayer experience compared to the standard Switch, it’s still a fantastic way to enjoy Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with friends and family. Whether you’re racing locally or competing online, these tips will help you have a smooth and enjoyable experience. So, grab your Switch Lite, gather your friends (virtually or in person), and get ready to race!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about playing multiplayer Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch Lite:
1. Can I play split-screen Mario Kart on the Nintendo Switch Lite?
No, you cannot play split-screen multiplayer on a single Nintendo Switch Lite. The Switch Lite does not have detachable Joy-Cons, which are required for split-screen play.
2. Do I need Nintendo Switch Online to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online?
Yes, you need a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online. This subscription allows you to connect to the internet and race against other players around the world.
3. How many people can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe locally on Switch Lite?
Up to eight players can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe locally using multiple Nintendo Switch or Switch Lite consoles. Each player needs their own console and copy of the game.
4. Can I play with someone who has a regular Nintendo Switch if I have a Switch Lite?
Yes, you can play with someone who has a regular Nintendo Switch via local wireless play or online play. The consoles are compatible with each other for multiplayer gaming.
5. How do I create a local wireless room on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
From the main menu, select “Wireless Play,” then choose “Create Room.” Other players can then join your room by selecting “Wireless Play” on their consoles and choosing your room from the list.
6. How do I join a friend’s online game on Mario Kart 8 Deluxe?
Select “Online Play” from the main menu, then choose “Friends.” You’ll see a list of your online friends and be able to join their game if they are currently playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.
7. Does the Nintendo Switch Online Expansion Pack affect Mario Kart 8 Deluxe multiplayer?
While the Expansion Pack itself doesn’t directly affect basic online multiplayer, it includes the Booster Course Pass DLC, which adds new tracks to the game. This enhances the overall experience for all players if the host has the DLC enabled for local wireless play.
8. What happens if my internet connection is unstable during an online race?
An unstable internet connection can cause lag, disconnections, and a generally poor gaming experience. Try moving closer to your router or using a wired connection if possible.
9. Can I use voice chat while playing Mario Kart 8 Deluxe online?
Yes, you can use voice chat through the Nintendo Switch Online app on your smartphone or tablet. This allows you to communicate with your friends during races.
10. Can I play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Switch Lite without an internet connection?
Yes, you can play the single-player modes of Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Switch Lite without an internet connection. You can also play local wireless multiplayer with friends without an internet connection.
11. Are there any accessories that can improve the multiplayer experience on Switch Lite?
Yes, grip accessories can make the Switch Lite more comfortable to hold for extended periods. A USB-C to Ethernet adapter can provide a more stable internet connection for online play.
12. How do I update Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on my Switch Lite?
Connect your Switch Lite to the internet and go to the Nintendo eShop. Search for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and if there’s an update available, you’ll see an option to download it.
13. Is there a way to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe with more than two players on one Switch Lite?
No, the Nintendo Switch Lite cannot support more than one player on a single console at a time. It is not possible to connect additional controllers for local split-screen play.
14. What is the ideal distance between Switch consoles for local wireless play?
Ideally, keep the consoles within 30 feet of each other for a stable connection. Obstructions like walls can reduce the range.
15. If I purchase the Booster Course Pass, does everyone I play local wireless with need it too?
No, if the host of the local wireless room has the Booster Course Pass, all players in that room can play on the Booster Course tracks, even if they don’t own the DLC themselves. However, they will only be able to access the new characters and karts from the DLC if they also own it.