For two-player local co-op, Cuphead on Nintendo Switch uses two Joy-Cons—one per player. If you mean playing solo with just one detached Joy-Con, the official information available does not confirm that setup. Use both Joy-Cons together or another compatible controller for solo play unless Cuphead itself recognizes the single Joy-Con.
Does Cuphead support one Joy-Con per player?
Yes, for local co-op: Cuphead developer StudioMDHR describes playing with a friend using “two Joy-Cons,” and Nintendo says multiplayer requires one compatible controller per player. That means each player needs a controller; on a standard Switch, the two Joy-Cons included with the console can serve as separate controllers. StudioMDHR’s Switch announcement and Nintendo UK’s Cuphead listing describe the co-op setup.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Neon Red/Neon Blue | $88.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Nintendo Joy-Con (L/R) - Neon Red/Neon Blue (Renewed) | $60.00 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Nintendo Neon Purple/Neon Orange Joy-Con (L-R) - Switch | $87.95 | Buy on Amazon |
Can you play solo with one detached Joy-Con?
The official sources confirm solo play, but they do not specifically say that Cuphead supports playing alone with one detached Joy-Con held horizontally. A Joy-Con can be set up horizontally in the Switch system menu, but that does not guarantee that a particular game accepts that grip; Nintendo notes that available controller grips depend on the game’s options. If Cuphead does not respond as expected, use both Joy-Cons attached or paired together, or use another compatible controller. Nintendo Australia’s listing confirms solo and local co-op modes.
How to set up Joy-Cons for two-player co-op
- From the Switch HOME Menu, open Controllers.
- Select Change Grip/Order.
- Detach both Joy-Cons. On each one, press SL and SR to register it as a horizontal controller.
- Start Cuphead and select local co-op. Each player uses one Joy-Con; whether a particular grip works in-game depends on Cuphead’s supported controller options. Nintendo’s controller grip instructions explain the setup.
Does the answer change in handheld mode?
Handheld mode uses Joy-Cons attached to the console. Detached wireless controllers are for TV or tabletop play. Nintendo Switch Lite does not support TV mode, though it can use compatible wireless controllers for multiplayer; the console needs a stand for tabletop play. See Nintendo’s explanation of Switch play modes.
Quick Recap
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
#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.
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.
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