For those who wish to enjoy multiplayer gaming on the original Nintendo Switch, sharing a Joy-Con with a friend is necessary. However, the recently unveiled Nintendo Switch 2 elevates this concept by enabling players to share an entire game with a friend. It’s important to note that this innovative feature is only applicable to certain titles that support GameShare functionality.
Understanding GameShare
GameShare is a remarkable local multiplayer feature that allows one player to share a game with a friend. While convenient, there are several limitations to this function that users should be aware of:
- This feature operates solely in local mode, requiring players to be on the same network.
- Only one individual needs to purchase the game; it can be temporarily shared with others. However, if the game owner disconnects from the network, access will be revoked for others immediately.
- Up to three additional Nintendo Switch players can share the game simultaneously.
- GameShare incorporates GameChat, allowing players to monitor each other’s progress on their respective Switch systems.
- The availability of GameShare largely hinges on the specific titles chosen by developers, meaning not all games will have this feature.
Supported Games for GameShare
Nintendo has announced an initial list of games that will support the GameShare feature, with the prospect of more titles being added through future software updates. The current roster includes:
- Clubhouse Games 51: Worldwide Classics
- Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
- Captain Toad: Treasure Tracker
- Super Mario Odyssey
- Big Brain Academy: Brain vs. Brain
GameShare Availability on the Original Nintendo Switch
The GameShare capability is also set to roll out for the original Nintendo Switch and Switch Lite via software updates. However, users of these devices will encounter limitations, as they are unable to share games among themselves. The original Nintendo Switch can only receive games from players using the new Switch 2.
In summary, while only the Switch 2 can share and receive games, the older models will still have the ability to access games shared from the new system, allowing for a limited but enjoyable range of multiplayer experiences.