MK1 Switch: 1 Controller 2-Player? Joy-Con Guide

Casual, Friendly

Informal, Casual

Okay, so you’re itching to throw down in Mortal Kombat 1 on your Nintendo Switch, right? The big question everyone’s asking is: can you play mk one with one controller on Switch? Well, the Nintendo Switch, as a console, has Joy-Cons that offer some interesting options. NetherRealm Studios, the game developer, definitely factored in local multiplayer. So, get ready to find out if you and a buddy can battle it out using just a single set of Joy-Cons, turning your cozy couch into a virtual fighting arena!

Unleashing Mortal Kombat 1 Mayhem with a Single Joy-Con

Mortal Kombat 1 (MK1) on the Nintendo Switch?

Yeah, it’s already a talking point.

But MK1 with a single Joy-Con? Now we’re talking about something truly… unexpected.

Forget what you think you know about precision inputs and tournament-ready setups. We’re diving into the wild world of accessible, right-here-right-now fighting game fun.

The Allure of Portable Kombat

There’s a certain thrill to whipping out your Switch and challenging a friend to a quick match, anywhere, anytime. MK1 on the Switch makes that possible.

But the single Joy-Con twist? That takes it to another level.

It’s the ultimate pick-up-and-play experience, stripping away the complexities and leaving you with pure, unadulterated arcade-style mayhem.

Mortal Kombat 1: A Quick Primer

For the uninitiated, Mortal Kombat 1 is the latest installment in the legendary fighting game franchise.

It’s a reboot, a fresh start, but with all the bone-crunching, blood-splattering action you’d expect.

We’re talking iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, and Liu Kang, engaging in brutal combat with a revamped fighting system.

Oh, and let’s not forget the Kameo Fighters! These assist characters add a whole new layer of strategy and spectacle.

The Cool Factor: Instant Local Multiplayer

Let’s be honest: there’s something undeniably cool about handing a friend half a controller and saying, "You ready to get your butt kicked?"

It’s a throwback to the golden age of arcade gaming, where sharing a cabinet (and maybe a pizza) was the norm.

This single Joy-Con setup is instant multiplayer gratification. No extra controllers, no complicated setups, just pure, instant head-to-head combat.

It’s the perfect way to settle a score, kill some time, or just have a good laugh with friends.

Accessibility for All

The single Joy-Con option isn’t just a novelty; it’s about accessibility.

It lowers the barrier to entry, making MK1 more approachable for casual players or those who might not have access to multiple controllers.

It’s perfect for impromptu gaming sessions on road trips, at parties, or even during lunch breaks.

It means more people can experience the thrill of Mortal Kombat, regardless of their skill level or controller setup.

So, are you ready to embrace the chaos?

Understanding Single Joy-Con Play: Taming the One-Handed Beast

So, you’re intrigued by the prospect of single Joy-Con Kombat? Awesome! But before you jump in and start mashing buttons, let’s break down exactly what we’re dealing with. It’s not quite the precision instrument a dedicated fighting stick is, but it can be surprisingly effective once you understand its limitations and quirks.

Decoding Single Joy-Con Kombat

Essentially, single Joy-Con play means each player uses one half of the Nintendo Switch’s Joy-Con controller. Think of it as slicing a controller in half and giving each combatant a piece. This immediately presents a challenge: fewer buttons and a drastically different control scheme.

In MK1, this translates to remapped button assignments. The analog stick handles movement, while the face buttons (A, B, X, Y – or in this case, their sideways equivalents) are used for attacks, blocks, and interacting with the environment. The SL and SR buttons on the top edge of the Joy-Con become crucial modifiers. You’ll be using these to pull off throws, stances, and other special moves.

It’s not the most intuitive setup, let’s be honest. You lose out on dedicated buttons for certain actions, and some inputs become a bit more… gymnastic.

But don’t despair. It’s all about adapting and understanding what you can do effectively.

Syncing Up for Single Joy-Con Mayhem

Getting your Joy-Cons ready for single-player use is surprisingly straightforward.

1. Head to the Switch’s Home Menu: From the main screen, navigate to the "Controllers" icon (it looks like a little gamepad).
2. Change Grip/Order: Select the "Change Grip/Order" option. This is where the magic happens.
3. Press the Sync Button: On each Joy-Con, locate the small, black "SYNC" button on the top edge (near the SL and SR buttons). Press and hold this button until the player indicator lights start flashing.
4. Pair ‘Em Up: After a few seconds, the Joy-Cons should pair with the Switch, and each will be assigned a player number (1 or 2). Voila!

Now, each player has their own individual controller. Time to unleash the pain (or, more likely, fumble through some combos – we’ve all been there!).

Delving into Controller Configuration (Or Lack Thereof)

Unfortunately, MK1 on the Switch doesn’t offer extensive controller remapping options. You’re largely stuck with the default button assignments for single Joy-Con play.

This can be a bummer, especially if you have a particular playstyle or prefer a different button layout.

However, before you throw in the towel, dig around in the settings to see if there are button mapping alternatives, or experiment within the controller settings.

Check the Accessibility options; sometimes there are global mapping changes that might help.

But generally, prepare to adapt to the game’s limitations. Think of it as a fun (and potentially frustrating) challenge!

Setting Up for Two-Player Kombat: Local Multiplayer with a Twist

So, you’re intrigued by the prospect of single Joy-Con Kombat? Awesome! But before you jump in and start mashing buttons, let’s break down exactly what we’re dealing with. It’s not quite the precision instrument a dedicated fighting stick is, but it can be surprisingly effective once you get the hang of it.

This section dives into the nitty-gritty of getting Mortal Kombat 1 ready for some seriously fun, albeit slightly unconventional, two-player action using single Joy-Cons.

Getting MK1 Ready for Some 1v1 Action

First things first, make sure your Nintendo Switch is powered on and you’ve got Mortal Kombat 1 fired up. Once you’re at the main menu, resist the urge to jump straight into the story mode (tempting, I know!) and look for the "Local" option.

Yep, that’s where the magic happens. Select "Local", and you’ll be presented with a few options.

Don’t panic! It’s easier than it looks.

Navigating the Menu Maze

Okay, so you’re in the "Local" menu. Now what?

You’ll typically see options like "Versus" and maybe some "Towers" modes adapted for local play. Versus is your classic 1v1 showdown, the bread and butter of any fighting game.

Towers mode can offer a different flavor. In this mode you and your friend battle AI opponents through a series of matches. This is great for warming up or if one player is significantly more experienced than the other.

The main decision here is what game mode you think will be most enjoyable for both you and your opponent.

Single Joy-Cons: Pairing Up for Pandemonium

This is where the "single Joy-Con" part comes in. Before selecting a mode, ensure each player has a single Joy-Con detached from the console and is holding it horizontally.

The game should prompt you to press the SL and SR buttons (the small gray buttons on top of the Joy-Con) to register them as individual controllers.

If you are struggling to make the game register the controllers, double-check that you are following the specific on-screen prompts, and that each player has only one controller connected to them.

This step is crucial!

Choosing Your Kombatant and Stage

Once the game recognizes both Joy-Cons, you’ll be thrown into the character selection screen.

Here’s where the fun REALLY begins!

Pick your fighter, customize your variations (if available), and choose your Kameo Fighter.

Don’t forget the stage! Some stages have unique interactables that can give you an edge in battle (or lead to hilarious mishaps).

Ready, Set, FIGHT!

With characters and stages locked in, it’s time to unleash some mayhem!

Remember, single Joy-Con Kombat is all about having fun, embracing the challenge, and laughing at the inevitable button-mashing moments.

So go ahead, grab a friend, and prepare for some seriously silly (and surprisingly strategic) Mortal Kombat 1 action!

The Joy-Con Challenge: Advantages and Disadvantages

So, you’re intrigued by the prospect of single Joy-Con Kombat? Awesome! But before you jump in and start mashing buttons, let’s break down exactly what we’re dealing with.

It’s not quite the precision instrument a dedicated fighting stick is, but it can be surprisingly effective once you get the hang of it. Let’s dive into the good, the bad, and the, well, slightly cramped.

The Allure of the Single Joy-Con

Let’s be real, the biggest draw here is convenience. The Nintendo Switch’s portability is legendary, and the single Joy-Con setup amplifies that.

Imagine this: you’re on a road trip, waiting at the airport, or just chilling at a friend’s place. Boom! Instant Mortal Kombat tournament.

No extra controllers needed, no fuss. Just detach those Joy-Cons and you’re ready to rumble.

It’s pick-up-and-play at its finest.

Simplicity and Accessibility

Beyond portability, the simplicity of the single Joy-Con is appealing. It lowers the barrier to entry for casual players or those new to fighting games.

Fewer buttons can actually be a good thing when you’re just trying to have some fun and aren’t worried about mastering intricate combos.

It’s an easy way to introduce someone to the world of Mortal Kombat without overwhelming them.

The Dark Side of Single Joy-Con Kombat

Okay, let’s get real. There are some definite downsides to this setup. The most obvious is the cramped controls.

Trying to execute complex moves on such a small device can be, well, challenging.

Your fingers might feel like they’re doing yoga, and accidental button presses are almost guaranteed.

Input Lag: A Potential Kryptonite

While it might not be noticeable to everyone, input lag can be a factor.

The smaller size and wireless connection of the Joy-Con can sometimes lead to slight delays between your button presses and the action on screen.

For competitive players, this can be a deal-breaker. But for casual fun? It’s usually not a huge issue.

Limited Moveset: Embrace the Basics

Let’s face it: you won’t be pulling off super complex combos with ease. The single Joy-Con setup favors simpler, more fundamental gameplay.

This means you’ll need to adjust your strategy and focus on mastering basic attacks, special moves, and using Kameo Fighters effectively.

It forces you to be more strategic in some ways, which can actually be a fun challenge.

Is it Worth It?

Ultimately, the single Joy-Con Mortal Kombat experience is a trade-off. You sacrifice some control and precision for unparalleled convenience and accessibility.

If you’re looking for a hardcore competitive experience, stick with a Pro Controller or fight stick.

But if you want a fun, spontaneous way to play with a friend on the go, the single Joy-Con can be surprisingly enjoyable. Embrace the chaos and have fun!

Mastering the Fundamentals: Single Joy-Con Kombat Tips

So, you’re intrigued by the prospect of single Joy-Con Kombat? Awesome!

But before you jump in and start mashing buttons, let’s break down exactly what we’re dealing with.

It’s not quite the precision instrument a dedicated fighting stick is, but it can be surprisingly effective once you get the h…

Simplifying Your Approach: Back to Basics

The key to single Joy-Con success is simplifying your game.

Forget about intricate combos that require lightning-fast inputs.

Instead, focus on basic attacks, smart blocking, and strategic use of special moves.

This is about playing smart, not flashy.

Mapping Core Moves to Muscle Memory

Get intimately familiar with the face buttons.

Decide which button will be your primary punch, kick, and block.

Then drill those inputs until they become second nature.

Consistent execution of simple moves is far more valuable than fumbling through complex combos.

Kameo Fighters: Your Secret Weapon

Kameo Fighters are your lifeline in single Joy-Con combat.

These assists can extend combos, provide defensive support, and disrupt your opponent’s rhythm.

Experiment with different Kameos to find one that complements your play style.

Learn their cooldowns and how to best utilize their abilities.

Don’t just throw them out randomly; time their attacks for maximum impact.

Special Moves: Mastering the Motion

Pulling off special moves with a single Joy-Con can be tricky, but it’s doable.

Focus on moves with simple directional inputs (forward, back, down).

Practice the motion until you can execute it reliably under pressure.

Don’t be afraid to use the simplified special move inputs (if available) as a starting point.

Remember, consistency trumps complexity in this format.

Fatal Blows and Fatalities: The Grand Finale

Landing a Fatal Blow or Fatality is the ultimate goal, but they can be challenging with limited controls.

First, ensure you understand your character’s simple special attack patterns before adding complexity.

Prioritize your opponent’s position and your health levels (to know when the best time to execute the move is).

It is better to fail trying than never trying at all.

Don’t get discouraged if you miss the timing at first.

Beyond the Joy-Con: Exploring Alternative Controller Options

So, you’re intrigued by the prospect of single Joy-Con Kombat? Awesome!

But before you jump in and start mashing buttons, let’s break down exactly what we’re dealing with. It’s not quite the precision instrument a dedicated fighting stick is, but it can be surprisingly effective once you get the hang of it.

Still, let’s be honest. The single Joy-Con isn’t ideal for everyone, especially if you’re looking to level up your Kombat game.

Thankfully, the Nintendo Switch offers a bunch of alternative controller options that can seriously enhance your Mortal Kombat 1 experience. So, let’s dive into some of the best contenders.

Stepping Up Your Game: The Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Let’s face it, the Pro Controller is the gold standard for Switch gaming.

It’s comfortable, feels great in your hands, and the button layout is intuitive, especially for fighting games. The bigger buttons and more precise D-pad make executing complex combos far easier than with a single Joy-Con.

It’s definitely worth the investment if you plan on spending a significant amount of time playing MK1 or other fighting games on your Switch.

If you’re serious about improving your MK1 game, the Pro Controller is a game-changer.

The Joy-Con Grip: A Comfier Alternative

If you’re not quite ready to shell out for a Pro Controller, the Joy-Con Grip is a solid mid-range option. It comes standard with most Nintendo Switch consoles, so you may already have one kicking around.

The grip essentially combines both Joy-Cons into a single, more traditional-feeling controller.

It’s more ergonomic than using a single Joy-Con and offers a better button layout.

While it still doesn’t quite match the Pro Controller in terms of comfort and precision, the Joy-Con Grip is a significant upgrade over the single Joy-Con experience and is more accessible.

Diving Into the Switch System Settings

Did you know the Nintendo Switch system settings have a controller section?

That’s right. It’s not just for show! You can actually customize things within the system settings.

The controller section allows you to easily pair, unpair, and remap your Joy-Cons or Pro Controller.

This is particularly useful if you’re experiencing any controller issues or want to experiment with different button configurations.

Getting familiar with these settings is essential for any Switch gamer, especially when dealing with multiplayer setups or alternative controllers.

Controller Compatibility: What Else Works?

So, what other controllers can you use with Mortal Kombat 1 on the Switch?

While the Pro Controller and Joy-Cons are the officially supported options, some third-party controllers may also work. Controller compatibility varies, so it’s always best to check online forums or reviews before purchasing.

Just remember to check for compatibility before you buy. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to controller compatibility.

So, there you have it! Hopefully, this clears up any confusion about playing MK1 on your Switch with friends. The short answer is yes, can you play MK one with one controller on Switch, but you’ll be sharing a Joy-Con. Get creative, maybe even a little competitive, and have fun testing out those control schemes. See you online!