What Controllers Do You Need for Mario Kart on Nintendo Switch?

As a passionate Mario Kart gamer and content creator, the question I get asked most often is: what controllers do you actually need to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on the Nintendo Switch?

TLDR: You Can Play 2-4 Players Out of the Box

The quick answer is that the Switch comes with everything you need to play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe in local multiplayer right away. The included Joy-Con controllers allow for 2-4 player split screen Mario Kart races on a single Nintendo Switch system.

But more controllers allow for more flexibility and comfort in long 4-player sessions. Many gamers do choose to buy an extra set of Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers.

Official Controller Options for Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

Let‘s take a deeper look at the different official controller configurations supported by Mario Kart on Nintendo Switch:

Joy-Con Controllers

• Included with every Switch console
• Can be used individually or as a pair
• Tiny size is portable but can feel small for big hands
• No analog triggers
• HD Rumble capable
• Motion controls built-in
• Around 20 hours battery life

Pro Controller

• Sold separately for around $69.99 USD
• Comfortable and ergonomic gamepad
• Analog triggers with variable pressure
• Gyro and accelerometers for motion
• Around 40 hours battery life

According to Nintendo, up to 4 local players can play Mario Kart 8 Deluxe on a single Switch system [1]. Almost any combination of Joy-Cons and Pro Controllers is supported.

How Many Controllers for X Players

Here is a breakdown of how many controllers you need for different numbers of players:

2 Players:

• 2 Individual Joy-Cons
• 1 Joy-Con Pair
• 2 Pro Controllers

3 Players:

• 3 Individual Joy-Cons
• 1 Joy-Con Pair + 1 Individual Joy-Con
• 2 Pro Controllers + 1 Individual Joy-Con

4 Players:

• 4 Individual Joy-Cons
• 2 Joy-Con Pairs
• 3 Pro Controllers + 1 Individual Joy-Con
• 2 Pro Controllers + 1 Joy-Con Pair

As you can see, the Joy-Cons offer the most flexibility for supporting up to 4 player Mario Kart races on a single console.

Used Market Prices

Here is an overview of current used asking prices for Switch controllers on eBay and other resale sites:

My recommendation for the best value is to look for a used Joy-Con pair in good condition around $50. This will allow 2 additional people to play Mario Kart on your Switch with no issues.

Third Party & Specialty Controllers

There are also some great third party controller options and accessories that I‘ve tested and recommend:

• Hori Racing Wheels – Mario Kart branded wheels for realistic turning
• PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller – Budget gamepad for around $25
• 8BitDo SN30 Pro+ – Retro styled controller with extra features & customization

While not required, accessories like the Hori Steering Wheel do provide a more immersive and fun Mario Kart experience in my opinion.

The bottom line is that additional Joy-Cons or Pro Controllers are purely optional for Mario Kart multiplayer on Switch. But they can provide more comfort and flexibility for gaming sessions.

Let me know if you have any other questions! I‘m always happy to provide advice for fellow Nintendo fans and gamers.