How Many Nintendo Switch Controllers Do I Need for 4 Players?
As a hardcore Nintendo Switch gamer, one of my favorite things is gathering friends for intense multiplayer sessions. But we ran into some confusion early on regarding how many controllers we actually needed to play games together. After some trial and error, I‘m here to share the magic number…
The Short Answer: 4 Controllers for 4 Players
To get the maximum 4 players in games like Mario Kart 8, Super Smash Bros, and Mario Party, you need 4 total controllers. The Switch comes packed with 2 Joy-Con controllers. So to add 2 more players, you need to get an extra set of 2 Joy-Con controllers, either purchased separately or taken from another Switch system if you have one.
Breaking Down the Controller Math
Here‘s a quick reference chart to visualize the number of controllers needed for different numbers of players:
| Players | Joy-Con Controllers Needed |
| 1 | 1 |
| 2 | 2 (included with Switch) |
| 3 | 3 |
| 4 | 4 |
As you can see, the included 2 Joy-Cons covers you for 2 player games out of the box. But when you want to level up to more players, you‘ll need additional controllers.
Getting the 4 Controllers You Need
While the Joy-Cons are the standard Switch controller, you have a few options when amassing 4 controllers:
- 4 Joy-Con Controllers: This is the simplest route – just buy an extra set of 2 Joy-Cons to give you a total of 4. Joy-Cons can be purchased separately or taken from another Switch if available.
- Mix & Match: Combine 2 Joy-Cons with 2 Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers. Or throw in some GameCube controllers with the adapter. Mix and match whichever ones you have on hand to total 4.
No matter how you slice it, having 4 full individual controllers, whether Joy-Cons or another kind, opens up the world of 4 player gaming!
Pro Tip: Keep Those Joy-Cons Charged!
When you‘ve got multiple Joy-Cons in the mix, it becomes even more important to stay on top of keeping them powered up. Nothing kills a gaming session faster than dead controllers!
To ensure your Joy-Cons are always ready for action, be diligent about:
- Attaching both Joy-Cons to the Switch when not playing so they charge in handheld mode.
- Equipping a charging grip or dock so 2 or 4 controllers can charge at the same time.
- Having spare batteries like the Joy-Con AA battery pack to swap in when batteries run low.
Following these best practices for Joy-Con charging will let you focus on gaming glory rather than worrying about battery life!
More Controller Questions Answered
Over years of Switch gaming, I‘ve learned the ins and outs of setting up smooth multiplayer sessions. Here are answers to some other common questions about controllers:
How many controllers can connect to the Switch at once?
- You can wirelessly connect up to 8 controllers simultaneously to a single Switch console.
- This means you can have enough controllers for 8 player battles in games like Super Smash Bros Ultimate!
What games support 4 players on one Switch?
- Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
- Super Smash Bros Ultimate
- Mario Party Superstars
- Overcooked 2
- And many more – just check for the "up to 4 players" label!
Do you need 4 full Joy-Cons for every 4 player game?
- Most 4 player games do require each person to have their own dedicated Joy-Con.
- But some games like Overcooked 2 offer a party assist mode where not all players need a controller.
- So check each game‘s player support description to be sure!
I hope this guide clears up any confusion around setting up epic 4 player gaming sessions on the Nintendo Switch. Let the competitive and cooperative chaos begin!
