Recommended Free Tools
To play Nintendo Switch Sports, you need the game, a compatible Nintendo Switch system, and compatible Joy-Con controllers. You do not need the Leg Strap for most play, but you do need it for Soccer’s leg-strap play style. Nintendo Switch Online is required only for online play—not local multiplayer.
What you need to get started
- The game: Nintendo Switch Sports, in physical or digital form. Nintendo’s US store listing describes support for Nintendo Switch 2 as behavior consistent with Nintendo Switch; check your regional listing for availability and package contents. Nintendo’s game listing
- A compatible system: Nintendo lists Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, and Nintendo Switch 2 as supported systems in its current Americas FAQ. Nintendo Switch Sports FAQ
- Joy-Con controllers: Use compatible Joy-Con in the configuration required by your chosen sport. Pro Controllers and Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controllers are not compatible. Nintendo’s FAQ lists supported play styles, including Joy-Con with the Leg Strap; Joy-Con 2 cannot be used with the strap. Nintendo Switch Sports FAQ
- A suitable play mode: Handheld mode is not supported. Nintendo recommends TV mode for the best experience. Nintendo Switch Sports FAQ
- Room to move: Nintendo advises wearing Joy-Con wrist straps, checking your surroundings, and leaving adequate space while playing. Nintendo safety and setup instructions
Do you need the Leg Strap?
No, not to play the game generally. The Leg Strap is required only for Soccer’s leg-strap play style. The physical edition includes one; if you buy the digital edition and want to use that Soccer style, you may need to buy the strap separately. Package contents can vary by market, so check the local product listing before purchasing.
How to use it for Soccer
Nintendo’s instructions say to insert a left Joy-Con. For Nintendo Switch Sports, place the strap at the center of either thigh and tighten it so it stays in place without being uncomfortably tight. It is incompatible with Joy-Con 2. Nintendo Leg Strap instructions
Physical or digital: which edition should you choose?
| Edition | Leg Strap | Best fit |
|---|---|---|
| Physical | Includes one, according to Nintendo’s game listing; confirm contents for your market. | Players who want the Soccer leg-strap style without sourcing the accessory separately. |
| Digital | Not included; can be purchased separately if you want that Soccer style. | Players who do not need the strap or prefer a digital copy. Nintendo describes it as the lower-cost option, but prices vary by market and date. |
Nintendo’s US game listing identifies eight sports: Basketball, Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton, and Chambara. Its listing marks Golf and Basketball with an asterisk, so their availability may depend on the required software update.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches#1 Best Overall
- Introducing Joy-Con, controllers that make new kinds of gaming possible, for use with Nintendo Switch.
- The versatile Joy-Con offer multiple surprising new ways for players to have fun.
- Two Joy-Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as one game controller when attached to the Joy-Con grip.
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two-player action in supported games.
- Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro-sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible.
Local multiplayer: controllers depend on the sport
Nintendo’s US listing gives a range of one to four players on one system, but cautions that the number who can participate simultaneously depends on the sport. Some multiplayer setups may also require additional accessories. Check the controller requirements for the sport and group size you plan to play; do not assume every player needs a pair of Joy-Con or that one controller setup works across all sports. Nintendo’s game listing and Nintendo’s FAQ
Local play does not require a Nintendo Switch Online membership. You may need additional compatible Joy-Con controllers depending on the sport and how many people are playing.
Rank #2
- All-in-One Storage Solution: Upgraded with a dedicated organizer station, this kit keeps all your Switch Sports accessories in order, with designated slots (marked with accessory names) for easy access and display, eliminating desktop clutter. Nintendo Switch Interactive Gaming Figures
- Full Game Compatibility: Includes 2 Joy-Con shared grips, 2 golf clubs, 2 tennis/badminton rackets, 2 wrist straps, 2 leg straps, 2 swords, 2 bowling grips, and fits Switch/OLED console & 2 game cards (console, Joy-Cons and game cards not included), covering all Switch Sports games like golf, tennis, badminton, soccer, volleyball, bowling and chambara.Nintendo Switch Interactive Gaming Figures
- Fitness & Fun Combined: Turn game time into workout sessions! Enjoy immersive sports gameplay while staying active at home, no need for outdoor exercise. Nintendo Switch Interactive Gaming Figures
- Easy to Use & Ergonomic: Accessories snap seamlessly onto Joy-Cons without force; adjustable velcro design for soccer leg straps and volleyball wristbands; lightweight, ergonomic build delivers realistic gaming feel. Nintendo Switch Interactive Gaming Figures
- Perfect for Family & Friends: Boosts game realism and competitive fun, making it ideal for family gatherings and friend hangouts, a must-have for Switch enthusiasts! Nintendo Switch Interactive Gaming Figures
Online play: membership, internet, and Nintendo Account
Online play requires an active Nintendo Switch Online membership, an internet connection, and a Nintendo Account. Nintendo’s US store listing gives one to two players online; the available participants can still depend on the sport. Nintendo Switch Sports on Nintendo’s US store and Nintendo’s FAQ
If you do not have a membership, selecting Play Globally lets you try a competition against computer-controlled competitors. That is a trial, not full online play with other players. Nintendo Switch Sports FAQ
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Can be connected to the main console for use in the handheld mode, or shared with friends to enjoy two-player action in supported games.One controller or two, vertical or sideways, motion controls or buttons…Joy‑Con and Nintendo Switch give you total gameplay flexibility.Includes one Neon Red right Joy-Con and one Black Joy-Con Strap.
- Each Joy-Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a stand-alone controller
- Joy-Con controllers boast an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
- Control the action from almost anywhere in your room without cords
Rank #4
- 【Designed for Nintendo Switch / OLED Joy-Cons】Perfect for Switch/ OLED Joy-Cons, enhancing your experience with Mario Golf: Super Rush and other Switch sports golf games (Not for Switch 2)
- 【Realistic Gaming Experience】This compact device transforms your Joy-Cons into a premium controller, elevating your virtual golf gameplay
- 【Easy to Use】Simply slide your Joy-Cons into place and secure them with wrist straps to prevent accidental drops
- 【Perfect for Family and Party Play】Supports up to 4 players simultaneously, making it ideal for family bonding and social gatherings
- 【Durable and Comfortable】Made from lightweight, durable ABS plastic for a comfortable grip during extended gameplay. [Note: Joy-Cons not included]
Rank #3
- Two Joy Con can be used independently in each hand, or together as 1 game controller when attached to the Joy Con grip
- They can also attach to the main console for use in handheld mode, or be shared with friends to enjoy two player action in supported games
- Each Joy Con has a full set of buttons and can act as a standalone controller, and each includes an accelerometer and gyro sensor, making independent left and right motion control possible
Quick setup checklist
- Install or insert Nintendo Switch Sports on a supported system.
- Use compatible Joy-Con controllers; do not use a Pro Controller. Play in a supported mode rather than handheld mode.
- For Soccer leg-strap play, attach the strap correctly and use a left Joy-Con. The strap is optional for other play.
- For local multiplayer, check the requirements for your sport and player count before adding controllers.
- For online play, make sure you have an internet connection, a Nintendo Account, and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership.
- Attach Joy-Con wrist straps and clear enough space around each player to move safely.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
