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What sports can you play, and how do the controls work?
Nintendo’s current lineup includes Tennis, Volleyball, Soccer, Chambara (swordplay), Badminton, Bowling, Golf, and Basketball. Golf and Basketball were added after the game’s original launch, so older descriptions listing six sports are out of date. See Nintendo’s current game page for the lineup.
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30 Sport Games in 1 Nintendo Switch | $25.70 | Buy on Amazon |
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Instant Sports - Nintendo Switch | $28.68 | Buy on Amazon |
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Most actions use Joy-Con motion: swing, throw, kick, or block by moving a controller. The motion you need varies by sport, and supported controller combinations can also depend on the mode. Check Nintendo Support’s controller and play-style guide for the setup you plan to use. Nintendo Switch Pro Controllers are not compatible.
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#1 Best Overall
- Step up and take control of how you leave your mark in the biggest, most immersive MLB The Show yet.
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How do you learn the controls before a match?
Use the in-game How to Play option for sport-specific instructions, or choose Free Practice to try movements at your own pace. Nintendo’s beginner guide recommends these options before competitive matches.
For Soccer, the Free Practice route is Play Locally > Soccer > One Player > Free Practice. To find How to Play, open the Options gear menu. Practice is especially useful when you need to understand how controller movement affects kick direction.
Rank #2
- Swing, kick, spike, and bowl your way to victory in 7 sports
- Play Golf, Soccer, Volleyball, Bowling, Tennis, Badminton and Chambara (swordplay)
- Motion controls will get you moving and help turn your real-world actions into in-game movements
- Use the Leg Strap accessory to kick the ball in Soccer
- Play with friends and family locally or online—in some sports, you and a friend can even team up on the same system to take on other teams online
Beginner tips for each sport
Tennis
For a faster serve, begin the swing early enough to meet the ball near its highest point. It is a timing goal that takes practice, not a shortcut that works immediately. Nintendo offers this tip in its sports tips guide.
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Volleyball
For a quicker spike, jump slightly before your teammate sets the ball. The aim is to meet the ball in the air as you reach the right point in your jump.
Rank #3
- The ultimate game that brings together 30 different sports
- Challenge your family or friends and may the best player win
- Multiple game modes available: Quick match or Tournament / Team mode or Solo
- Explore a multitude of environments! Volcano / Desert / Snowy countries
- Unlock new costumes and choose to play with motion or buttons on NSW
Soccer
- In Four-on-Four, hold ZR while kicking to pass to a teammate.
- Watch the minimap to track teammates, opponents, and the ball; consider covering the goal if nobody else is guarding it.
- If using two-handed controls, spend time in Free Practice learning how controller movement changes the kick’s direction.
Badminton
As the shuttlecock begins to descend, try a gentle downward swing for a fast smash. Hold ZR or ZL while swinging to perform a Drop Shot. Alternating between the two can make your next shot less predictable.
Bowling
Before throwing, reposition or rotate using the on-screen button prompts. Use the lane arrows to aim, and start with a straight, controlled throw before trying a hook. These fundamentals are also covered in Nintendo’s bowling tips.
Rank #4
- 6 sports: Baseball, run's jump, goalkeeper, tennis, bowling & rafting.
- 20 characters to customize (change your name, outfit, accessories & hair)
- Varied game modes - Solo or multiplayer for up to 8 players.
- More than 15 environments and tons of unlockable items.
Chambara
The three sword types reward different approaches: the standard Sword has the strongest strike, Charge Swords can build a Charge Strike by guarding, and Twin Swords can perform a Spinning Strike. Learn the timing and abilities of your chosen sword before committing to an attack.
Golf
Check the wind meter and adjust your shot: wind can move the ball, and higher shots are more affected. Nintendo includes this advice in its current tips guide.
Basketball
Basketball is part of the current game lineup. Use its in-game tutorial to learn the controls and techniques; the available guidance here does not establish a specific beginner technique beyond that.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Do you need the Leg Strap?
No. The Leg Strap is optional for the game overall and is relevant to some Soccer play, including Soccer Shoot-Out and Leg-Strap Mode. It is not required for the other sports. Nintendo’s beginner guide says the physical version includes the strap in the market it describes; it may also be sold separately, and the Leg Strap included with Ring Fit Adventure can be used.
Quick Recap
Set up safely before you play
- Attach the Joy-Con wrist straps and secure them as directed.
- Leave enough clear space around you to swing safely, including space for other players nearby.
- Confirm the supported Joy-Con configuration for your sport and mode in Nintendo Support.
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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