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If you mean the current game, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is for Nintendo Switch and is listed by Nintendo as supported on Nintendo Switch 2. The series spans several older consoles, though, so the device depends on which Smash game you want.
Which devices can play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate?
Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is a Nintendo Switch game. Nintendo lists the Switch version as supported on Nintendo Switch 2. On the Switch family, Ultimate supports TV, handheld, and tabletop play. Nintendo notes that “Software compatibility and play experience may differ on Nintendo Switch Lite.” Nintendo’s Ultimate product page
Nintendo’s multiplayer setup information covers Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED, and Switch 2. On one system, Ultimate supports one to eight players; local wireless supports two to eight, and online play supports two to four. Online features require an active Nintendo Switch Online membership. Nintendo’s multiplayer setup guide Nintendo’s Ultimate update history
Which console is each Super Smash Bros. game for?
| Game | Original system documented by Nintendo | What to know about playing it now |
|---|---|---|
| Super Smash Bros. | Nintendo 64; Nintendo also documents a Wii Virtual Console version | Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack provides a selected N64 classics library on Switch and Switch 2. The sources cited here do not confirm that this specific Smash game is in the current catalog. Nintendo’s original-game page Nintendo’s N64 classics information |
| Super Smash Bros. Melee | Not established by the official pages cited here | Check Nintendo’s current catalog before assuming it is available through a classic-game service. |
| Super Smash Bros. Brawl | Wii | Nintendo discontinued the Wii software Nintendo Wi-Fi Connection service on May 20, 2014, so Brawl’s original online features are no longer available through that service. Nintendo’s Brawl page |
| Super Smash Bros. for Nintendo 3DS | Nintendo 3DS | Nintendo identifies it as the 3DS edition; the sources cited here do not establish compatibility with Switch. Nintendo’s series catalog |
| Super Smash Bros. for Wii U | Wii U | Nintendo says purchases in the Wii U and Nintendo 3DS family eShops ended March 27, 2023. Nintendo’s Wii U game page |
| Super Smash Bros. Ultimate | Nintendo Switch | Nintendo lists the Switch game as supported on Switch 2; it offers TV, handheld, and tabletop play on the Switch family. Nintendo’s Ultimate product page |
Can you play the old Smash games on Switch or Switch 2?
Do not assume that an older game works on newer hardware just because Nintendo offers classic-game libraries. Nintendo describes selected N64 and GameCube catalogs, and the available information cited here does not confirm a particular Smash title in either catalog. An active Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack membership is required for the N64 library; GameCube classics are exclusive to Switch 2. Check Nintendo’s live catalog for the game you want rather than treating library access as proof that it is included. Nintendo’s N64 classics information
#1 Best Overall
- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
What controllers and play options should you consider?
Wired GameCube controllers
For Ultimate, a wired GameCube Controller requires a GameCube Controller Adapter. Nintendo’s setup information covers the Switch family, including Switch 2. For Super Smash Bros. for Wii U, Nintendo’s manual separately requires a GameCube Controller Adapter for Wii U to use GameCube controllers. Nintendo’s Ultimate multiplayer setup guide Nintendo’s Wii U manual
Wii U and Nintendo 3DS together
The Wii U manual describes connecting a Nintendo 3DS system running its own Smash game to the Wii U version, including using the handheld as a controller. That is a linked Wii U/3DS feature; it does not mean the Wii U game runs on a 3DS by itself. Nintendo’s Wii U manual
Quick Recap
Best Value
- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Rank #4
- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
Rank #3
- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
Rank #2
- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
How to choose the right device
- Want the current game? Choose a Switch-family system for Ultimate; Nintendo lists it as supported on Switch 2.
- Want a specific older release? Match the device to that edition: Wii for Brawl, Nintendo 3DS for the 3DS game, Wii U for the Wii U game, or Nintendo 64 for the original release.
- Want portable play? Ultimate supports handheld mode on Switch-family systems, with Nintendo’s stated Switch Lite compatibility caveat.
- Want online matches? Ultimate online requires Nintendo Switch Online. Brawl’s original Wii online service has ended.
- Want a wired GameCube controller? Check the adapter requirement for the console and game you plan to use.
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.
