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To play Nintendo Switch Sports, you need the game, a supported Nintendo Switch-family console, and compatible Joy-Con controllers. The game does not support Handheld Mode, so plan to play on a TV. You do not need a Leg Strap for general play; it is for a supported Soccer mode. Online play additionally requires internet access, a Nintendo Account, and a Nintendo Switch Online membership.
What you need for the basic setup
- The game: Nintendo Switch Sports, either physical or download software.
- A supported console: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch – OLED Model, or Nintendo Switch 2.
- Compatible Joy-Con: The configuration depends on the sport and play mode. A Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller will not work.
- A TV setup: Nintendo states that “Nintendo Switch Sports does not support Handheld Mode.” Nintendo recommends TV Mode. See Nintendo’s compatibility FAQ.
Because handheld play is unsupported, do not assume a Switch Lite by itself is a suitable setup. Nintendo does describe a licensed stand accessory as necessary if using a Switch Lite for its optional wired LAN setup; that is a specific networking case, not a workaround that makes Handheld Mode supported.
| # | 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 |
Which Joy-Con and accessories do you need?
Controller needs vary by sport and mode. Nintendo lists paired Joy-Con, a single Joy-Con in some configurations, and Joy-Con used with a Leg Strap for applicable Soccer play. The support FAQ does not establish a universal controller count for every sport and local-player combination, so check the selected sport and number of players rather than assuming one pair is enough for every setup.
Leg Strap: only for a Soccer option
The Leg Strap is not required to start the game or play every sport. It is used for Soccer Leg-Strap Mode. Nintendo’s attachment instructions explain how to insert a Joy-Con into the accessory. Joy-Con 2 controllers are not compatible with the Leg Strap. Package contents vary by edition or region; Nintendo’s cited pages do not establish that every physical copy includes one, so check the particular product listing if you want the strap included.
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- 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.
How to switch to Soccer Leg-Strap Mode
- In Play Globally, highlight Soccer and press X.
- In Play Locally or Play with Friends, press + on the controller-holding screen.
- Use a compatible Joy-Con with the Leg Strap; Joy-Con 2 cannot be used with it.
These mode-selection steps are from Nintendo’s FAQ.
Do you need Nintendo Switch Online?
No membership is needed for every activity: local play does not require an online membership. To play online, you need an internet connection, a Nintendo Account, and an active Nintendo Switch Online membership. If you select Play Globally without a membership, Nintendo offers a trial competition against computer competitors rather than full online play. See the official game page and support FAQ.
Voice chat with friends
Nintendo documents smartphone-app voice chat for Play with Friends, and it requires Nintendo Switch Online. Nintendo Accounts belonging to users under 13 cannot use that voice chat. Voice chat is an additional condition, not a requirement for playing the game itself.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Optional wired LAN play
Nintendo’s wired LAN instructions allow up to four consoles, with up to two players on each console—up to eight players in total. How many can participate in a match at the same time depends on the sport. Each console needs its own copy of the game, physical or download, and a wired network setup. For Switch Lite, Nintendo says a licensed accessory such as HORI’s Dual USB PlayStand is needed to connect a USB LAN adapter. Read Nintendo’s LAN play instructions before setting up a group.
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
Set up the play space safely
Nintendo advises wearing the Joy-Con wrist straps, leaving adequate room, and staying aware of your surroundings. Follow the safety guidance on the official game page before moving through motion-controlled sports.
Quick Recap
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.
